Hola hola!
We can’t believe it has already been so long since our Dominican republic trip ended! We can still hear all your vivacious laughter from over the palm trees and among the moos from the cows. You were our first group of the summer and definitely the most memorable! From all of us on the lodge, we want to say thank you for your effort, participation and energy that you put into the project this summer. We could not of done it without you.
We have fond memories of waking up to the smell of crispy bacon and the soft sounds of the meditation bowl. Heading on our way to work sites at Cano Dulce and La Grua, equipped with our speaker and singing on the top of our lungs. And the adventure days, and the beautiful waters and and white sandy beaches.
We know that you guys are probably starting back with school (or college YAY) but we wanted you to know that we will forever remember the laughs and good times that we shared. I hope that you know your time spent in the Dominican Republic did truly make a lasting impact on the communities here, you have left your stamp in the cement and in our hearts.
You will forever be a part of the work done at Polanco, providing water for a community of over 200 people. Clean water management is fundamental to global health. Almost one tenth of the global disease burden could be prevented by access to clean water, and you guys have played a part in this important puzzle by helping to install a water tank and privode bathrooms. We are paving the way to better health for these communities by putting in concrete floors, handing out vitamins and building bottle houses.
We hope that you take the skills and knowledge from this trip into all aspects of your life, and that you remain to be globally engaged, hardworking and motivated to make a different to the wellbeing of people all over the world. We were so impressed with your commitment and effort put into our debate on medicine and HIV/AIDS, your feedback has helped us shape future programs, thank you!
Not to mention the hard work you guys did, we also had so much fun! You guys made the group as special as it was by being so close knit and inclusive. We will always remember and cherish the friendship bracelets you made us (we are still practicing). The stunning sunsets over the lodge, the screams over the spiders, the lazy evenings in the hammocks. GHI.A – you were amazing! The level of care and concern that you showed to each other, the staff and the members of the community will never be forgotten.
Here are Some special moments from our trip:
-Jumping into the blue water from the zipline at Dudu Lagoon
-Learning how to make bottle bathrooms and sustainable health issues with Javier
-Getting caught in the thunderstorm on the beach at Gri Gri Lagoon
-The clinic brigades, and the playful and cheeky children
-All the bracelet making! And the braides.
-The swamp zoo with the crocodile and sweet sugar cane
-Singing on the guagua buses
-Delivering some kick-ass Capstone Projects
Please stay connected! We hope to see you again.
Abrazos,
Hilary, Averi, Michaela, Javier and Idelisa
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