Bye Bye Feet.....Hello Chalkboard!

Unaccustomed to blogging as I am, I'm not at all sure how to begin other than to introduce myself. (Though, I fear, most of you know me quite well enough to not need more information in that regard ).

I am but a simple Podiatrist (though, note, not humble enough not to capitalise Podiatrist) who travels way too much for her own economic well being and, indeed, is off again.

I'm not a teacher...but, like the little red engine..I think I can.

I'm travelling to Ghana on Thursday, via London, to join a small not for profit organisation called Help A School...which places volunteers throughout Ghana into schools which could use a hand.

Intitally, the organisation wanted to place me in the city of Accra, where I would have all the comforts of home. I believe they thought that, as I am 52 and their life expectancy is 57...I should need some assistance to get around. It's a nice thought, but maybe next time (or the time after perhaps).

So, after some more realistic discussion, I am off to a small village called Dawhenya.

It's not far from Accra and quite near the East coast, in the lower Volta region.

I've read diaries from two volunteers who have been to this region and they have found it both challenging and charming.

Before I left work, I placed a "begging bowl" at the front desk, hoping to gather some funds which I could use to best effect once I see what the kids have.

I'm not often left speechless, as you all know. I've been touched and delighted that this small effort has given me over $1000 to give to the children. My guess is that this generous amount will go a long way to putting some smiles on some small faces! Thank you. All of you.

We toddle off to work every day, and most days I'm a pretty grumpy sod, as you are aware. But these last few weeks, the incredible generosity , both financial and personal, of my wonderful patients...has taken my breath away. If I haven't hugged you already...please consider it done now. It's been a wonderful, happy, and optimistic time for me.

I feel like a very fortunate little foot farrier to have some pretty terrific customers (friends).

Thank you again. I'll try and keep this blog vaguely interesting for you...and upload some photos whenever I can. I should get into town about once week.

Cheers