5 DAYS until I set off for Ghana, packing 4 suitcases is proving to be a difficult task and I can't even think about how challenging it is going to be to get them to Ghana! Not to mention then getting them to Larabanga. When I arrive in Larabanga it will definitely all be worth it, the looks in their eyes when they see all of the things I have for them, there is all kinds of stuff. All donated by generous individuals, of all ages too! I remember a couple of months back when I was feeling frustrated because I was trying so hard to find support and gather donations but was getting nothing back. But now, it's a completely different story, I cannot believe it, I have felt so overwhelmed these past couple of weeks. From ankle supports to football kits, the things that have been donated are going to help the people of Larabanga in so many ways. The children are going to have so much fun playing football in their new kits thanks to Camille Hayward and SB rangers, Southport. I can't wait to see their faces and take some pictures to send back to the people who have made it happen.
Yesterday I went to Meols Cop High School (my high school) and did a cake sale. I think people really underestimate how much money cake sales can make, me included! During a 15 minute break time, we made £105... How incredible is that!? The First Aid Form challenge was also a huge success! I had to have 5 students help me carry all of the supplies, I can't thank everyone enough. A special thanks goes to Nicky Williams and Clair Benson for organising the sale and the collection of First Aid essentials.
This week I also went back to my Sixth Form, KGV- Southport. I went to talk to students about my experiences and how going overseas after I finished my A-Levels has changed the way I look at life completely. The few students I spoke to were lovely and I can tell they are going to have very bright futures. I also used this as an opportunity to tell them all about the project! Two second year students have even shown an interest in coming to Larabanga to help out and fundraise for us! Right now I am feeling very optimistic about the future for the children, with all of this amazing support, I couldn't be happier.
Just yesterday, I came across a Human Development report from 2007. It is specifically about the West Gonja district of Ghana (the district that Larabanga is situated in). The report is 109 pages long so I haven't been able to read the whole thing but even the small part that I have read, has uncovered some facts. Just think about what you are actually reading because it may just grab your attention and give you the motivation to want to change something.
- The West Gonja district is the 11th poorest out of 110 distrcts in Ghana.
- Infant Mortality rate is estimated at 122. This means that out of 1,000 live births, 122 infants will die before their first birthday. - The number of people with access to clean water rose from 25% to 90% between 2005/07 with Larabanga being the only exception within the district.
Click here to read the full report Full Report
