Doug left for Tanzania last night, full of plans and good intentions.  He is still in the air – somewhere over Africa. I envy the anticipation and the imminence of his experience. It is a bittersweet thing, to send him off.

Every plan is still possible. He hasn’t run into any roadblocks – cultural or literal.  He hasn’t missed a chance or made a misstep. Not that he will, mind you; it’s just the perfection of possibility.

Also, he hasn’t had his heart broken yet.  He hasn’t had to confront how dire the situation is for African children with albinism.  He hasn’t had to walk away from a child that needs so much more than a hat and sunglasses. 

I also envy his “first time in Africa” experience.  Friends of mine who work in Africa will roll their eyes at how this sounds, but there really is nothing – nowhere – like Africa.  I know he will love it, and will soak up every part of it without reservation or judgment.

He is carrying part of me with him – literally.  He took a small portion of my mother’s ashes with him to sprinkle somewhere in Tanzania. Partly because she was the first person to support Asante Mariamu, and partly because she would have loved to have gone herself.  In her place is another early Asante Mariamu supporter and volunteer named Sharon Turtoro, who was my mother’s best friend.  Sharon nursed my mom all last summer, and was there when I couldn’t be.  I am glad she is with Doug now.

I will provide updates as I get them, and more details in the days to come.  Our deepest thanks to everyone who has donated time, money, clothing, sunscreen and talent to make this journey possible.

Love,

Susan.