It is summer! And finally many of us are reuniting with loved ones and summer routines. Getting back in the new normal, made me reflect on a trip from a few years back. My children: Alice (10) and Henry (8) always knew “Dad is from Africa”, but had not experienced it firsthand. So, we set on the pilgrimage trip so see where “dad is from”. The flight was shorter from Germany (where we lived at the time), compared to the long haul from the New York. The airport experience and going through customs and immigration lines were mild compared to the four-day hobnobbing with extended relatives. Driving through the streets revealed economic disparities compared to where they live. The cultural immersion was a positive experience; however, there was significant congestion, “unique” traffic patterns, littering, and air pollution, which are now immediate references of the trip. To remain consistent, this was no luxury vacation. I needed them to see the house where I took my first steps and the street, I stubbed my toes. And indeed, they saw it all. Why and How, the asked “in disbelief”, did you make it out of here.
Through this whole experience, the key message was gratitude. Low- and middle-income countries continue to not have the luxury of declining COVID vaccines or being provided incentives to take them. These vaccines remain in minimal quantities and the new COVID variants continues to be a threat worldwide. Please continue to support us in advancing vaccine and global health equity.
I am very proud to share we have finalized plan for our fall mission trip to Uganda, Africa. In collaborating with Pemakade Mecho Clinic (PM Clinic), we will conduct a 3-day workshop and learn from the people of Nakaseke, Uganda. Life in the “global south” pales compared to our developed world and one newsletter cannot convey its lack of access to modern medicine or the challenges of healthcare delivery. Volunteers interested in joining us on the trip can reach out via [email protected].
Devoted Skies has also partnered with the Evergreen Family Medicine, Oregon to donate medical supplies to communities in need. We thank EFMC for their partnership and grateful for the support in advancing the mission of global healthcare equity.
Later this fall, DS will have our annual fund-raising event “an Evening with Friends”. Donations are much appreciated and welcomed through the Eventbrite site.
Thank you again in advance for your support of Devoted Skies. Your tax-deductible donations will truly make a difference to communities in need.
“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much” – Helen Keller
With warmth and gratitude, Funso