Before I start, I'm pleased to announce that I have finally stopped being the nurse's pin cushion, having completed my extensive course of vaccinations. That being said, it is Valentine's Day next week, so if any of you are in need of a pin cushion for a gift, I'm open to offers!
Moving on, you may well have been expecting me to be in the Gambia by now. Unfortunately, due to a mix-up over my medical clearance, my departure has been delayed until Sunday 20th February, when I will be flying via the Casablanca of Bogart and Bergman fame.
Moving on, you may well have been expecting me to be in the Gambia by now. Unfortunately, due to a mix-up over my medical clearance, my departure has been delayed until Sunday 20th February, when I will be flying via the Casablanca of Bogart and Bergman fame.
There were some positives to be found however. It gave me the opportunity to have my third and final rabies jab; allowed me to meet His Excellency, Mr Bojang, Deputy High Commissioner of the Gambia and, importantly, spend a little more time with family and friends before I leave.
My audience with Mr Bojang was particularly encouraging and marked the first time I had set foot on African soil. Expectedly there were some cultural differences, but I found Mr Bojang to be friendly, articulate and an accommodating ambassador for his country. Mr Bojang has asked me to keep him abreast about my observations on disability policy, the quality of life, and access to services by disabled people, whilst in the Gambia. I gladly accept this request, in the hope that my reports may reach the Gambian Minister for Health & Social Welfare. Combined with my introduction to a Minister in the Department of Commerce, who has offered to help me settle into the country, I am hoping that there will be other opportunities to be created from these relationships.
Admittedly, I feel slightly envious of friends who have already departed for their overseas placements, but if any of them are reading this, then I wish you a safe journey and the very best of luck. Go knock ‘em dead!
Remember, it is important work that the VSO does, and one which relies soley on the generous donations of people like you. As part of being a volunteer, VSO has asked each of us to raise £900 as a way of giving something back. I personally like to think we can reach £1,000. So, whilst you read these pages, I hope you might click on my just giving page and donate a little to this fantastic organisation. You will also be able to find out more about why I believe this to be a worthwhile cause.
Remember, it is important work that the VSO does, and one which relies soley on the generous donations of people like you. As part of being a volunteer, VSO has asked each of us to raise £900 as a way of giving something back. I personally like to think we can reach £1,000. So, whilst you read these pages, I hope you might click on my just giving page and donate a little to this fantastic organisation. You will also be able to find out more about why I believe this to be a worthwhile cause.
