Time to Grow!

Well, after our highly successfull (read sarcasm) get together/send off for me last Saturday, it's finally starting to sink in now that this is my last night in the U.S. for a few months (save a bad weather delay in New York!). I know ADRA will take good care of me during my time in Madagascar and I know I am going to grow tremendously in my field of disaster management...but I certainly am going to miss my wonderful husband, the man who can make me laugh no matter what the situation. :)

In an effort to keep us close together without spending too much money ($2.69 min....HA), Matt set up Skype on both our computers. And if I am ever a bit down, all I have to do is think this of Matt in his Skyp-getup....and lauuuuuughh and laugh!!

First, a word of thanks...

As I continue packing for my trip to Madagascar, I can't help but think of the people who helped me get to this point.

First, I would like to thank Dr. Ronald Mataya, professor in Loma Linda University's Department of Global Health, for helping me find a field practicum to complete my MPH requirements. Through his many contacts, I was able to secure this internship with ADRA Madagascar.

I would also like to thank my advisor, Dr. Jayakaran Job, chair of Loma Linda's Global Health Department, who has been a continual source of support for me throughout my journey to obtain my MPH and CEPR.

Additionally, I would like to thank ADRA Madagascar's Country Director, Mr. Peter Delhove, for extending this incredible opportunity to me to countribute to a significant international public health project and further my growth in this field.

Finally, I want to thank my wonderful support network of family and friends, all of whom have given me so much support since the moment I found out that I was accepted to this internship. There is no way I would have been able to make this trip without your help, support, love, and prayers...and for that, I cannot thank you enough.