23 days!

Hello friends, family, and newcomers. Just 23 days remain. I'm amazed at how quickly time has passed and how many incredible things have occurred. Today, I'll provide a general update on everything that's happened. I have gotten all my vaccines, we have received even more supplies, and I have started to prepare for packing.

In December, I consulted a travel pharmacist who provided me with a wealth of information. She reviewed the vaccines I should consider and those I absolutely needed for my travel destination. We discussed insect repellents, appropriate clothing, and pre-treating my clothes with permethrin. She also advised me on which foods and drinks to consume or avoid while there. Although I was supposed to begin the vaccination process in January, I felt anxious due to past reactions to vaccines as a child. Meeting with the travel pharmacist, I understood the importance of getting vaccinated to prevent serious illnesses during my trip. Last week, I received my final two vaccines, handled it well, and only experienced mild, common symptoms.

Common vaccines that people get when traveling to Kenya are:

• Yellow fever (mandatory)

• Typhoid fever and Hep A (recommended)

• Polio, Diptheria, Tetanus, and Measles (recommended)

Alway consult the professionals when traveling to foreign countries on what may be necessary for you based on your itinerary and health status.

The volume of supplies I have received since my last post is INCREDIBLE. Tayler, my wonderful friend whom I met through social media, shared a call to action on her story, and so many people have responded. We've received two additional full boxes of ostomy supplies, and peri care supplies are currently on their way to me. We will also be getting these fantastic injection-safe barrier bandages to use during the HPV immunization process. The first time I encountered these bandages was during my own vaccinations; the amazing feature of the bandage is that it reseals after puncture. How cool is that?! These bandages will be an excellent tool, ensuring everyone's protection and making the immunization process as safe and smooth as possible. It makes me so emotional to think about everything we will be able to provide for the women at GynoCare and those in the Beyond Fistula Program.

Our dining room is beginning to resemble a warehouse due to the accumulation of boxes and supplies scattered around. I'm eager to figure out how I'll manage to pack everything to take with me. I must admit, if there were any challenges to face, this is the best one to have. The abundance of supplies is a true reflection of the love and support we're receiving, and it's truly amazing and deeply felt. (How cute is the thank you illustration that Lilly made, she is an artist. IG is @craftsbylill)

The final update I have for now is that I'm assisting in managing the campaign's social media. Last week, a surgeon approached me to act as the liaison between the campaign members and a marketing company to enhance our social media presence and share the stories of the strong, resilient women and the campaign's incredible work. It's been fascinating to work behind the scenes to help raise awareness. If you're on social media and want to follow us, we are Campaign_52 on all platforms.

This adventure continues to astonish me. The relationships, the feelings, the complexities—it’s all incredibly unique to witness, experience, and feel. With just 23 days remaining, there is still a lot to accomplish, but I am prepared for everything. I am certain that by the conclusion of this, I will be a different person. Thank you for following along, til next time.

All Love,

Meg