Did my feeble attempt at an exciting title capture anyone’s attention? Can’t blame me for trying! But now that you’re already here…
So it’s only T-1.5 days until departure! I still cannot believe that I’m actually going to Kenya! I’ve barely left North America in my 22 years of life and now I’m embarking on a 10-week journey to a place that could not possibly be more foreign to me. Not only that, but I am to represent Vets without Borders and help the dairy farmers improve the health and reproductive success of their cows! Maybe I really shouldn’t tell them that this year was the first time that I even touched a dairy cow…I may have to fake some confidence and pretend to know what I am doing. Thank goodness that I will have the support and supervision of Laura, Dr. VanLeeuwen, and local vets to guide me! I just really hope that I could give the farmers and villagers as much as I think I will gain from this unbelievable experience. Not only in terms of the knowledge and hands-on experience with cattle, but the insight into such a fascinating culture and people. I really hope I don’t disappoint them! I think that fear of mine is greater than the fear of the health risks that I will be facing. It’s just that participating in one of Vets without Borders’ projects and being able to contribute to change (for the better) has been a dream of mine since deciding to pursue vet school while I was in undergrad (cliche, I know…). Maybe it’s selfish in a way, but I guess I just don’t want to feel like I’ve failed myself or those who have supported me so faithfully.
Speaking of my loved ones, this trip will be the longest time that I am away from home, by myself. No doubt I will miss my caring, teenage-esque mother, my immature, but super supportive brother, and the rest of my awesome family. Also, my wonderful friends, especially you ladies, who never fail to put a smile on my face. I am sure that I will have lots of unforgettable stories to tell you when I return. But don’t forget to remember your stories and share them with me too! I will miss Toronto and the great summer festivities, but thank goodness I won’t be here during the G8/G20 madness! I wonder if I will be able to catch any of the World Cup games while I’m there…I will be in the same continent!
Everything feels all that more real when I think about attending another friend’s ‘going away’ party tomorrow, but I think I’m ready for my ‘real’ summer to begin…or at least ready for the four flights in the next two days until I reach Nairobi! See you in Kenya!
love always,
vi
