Up, Up, and Away!

Before I set off on this global health experience, I wanted to make sure to thank each and every family member and friend who supported and encouraged me to take this adventure! I am truly grateful of all the love and support I have been given from the day I decided to go to South Africa. I have been surrounded with an overwhelming amount of financial support and verbal encouragement to begin my excursion! I am looking forward to this once in a lifetime experience and will keep you all updated throughout the trip! So long, farewell, I’ll be back before you know it!

Side Note:

I wanted to give a SUPER big thanks to my main supporters, my parents! For saying YES! I’m not going to lie, I almost figured the answer to my question “What do you think about me studying abroad in South Africa?” would be an abrupt “NO!” from my parents. Anyone who knows my mother knows “No” is her favorite word! (Her words, not mine) Surprisingly enough my parents e-mailed back with the most beautifully heartwarming response any daughter could have wanted. They encouraged me to take advantage of this opportunity because they understood how much this would mean to me to be able to reach those less fortunate! I cannot thank you both enough for everything you have done and continue to do. I love you with all of my heart, thank you.

xoxo

-Chelsea Stigile, July 7th 2014