Party at the Epicure

A fundraising/going-away party was held at the Epicure Bistro on Queen St. W. in Toronto last night. $2000 was raised through the dinner and the silent auction. Thank you all to those who came, and thanks to those who sent their best wishes. As I said in my speech last night...I really couldn't have done this without everyone's support, and thank you all very much for believing that I can do this...

Stay posted...the adventure begins tomorrow...Love Ann

Finalizing the plans

Well, everything is coming together. There have been some major glitches and if it had not been for all the support I am receiving (enthusiasm and money), I would have had trouble continuing on with my plans.

Nepal is in the middle of some political unrest. The Maoists are aggitating in the countryside and the Royal Army is aggitating in the cities. So presently, the Canadian government has issued a Travel Advisory--which I was really hoping would not happen. While there is unrest, it seems isolated. Apparently, there are only landmines outside Kathmandu Valley (?). But the travel advisory lead to my insurance woes. But they are being sorted out--I hope, and I'll let you all know what I have learned about insurance and travel in a "War-zone".

The Nepal Reliance Organization (NRO) has been extremely supportive and helpful with promptly answering my twenty-questions-a-day as I prepare to leave. And Sovita, the woman with whom I am corresponding, sends little reminders like "Don't forget your midwife certificate."

What are we doing?

I amheaded to Nepal for 5 months to work as a midwife in a rural health post in the Kathmandu Valley (Imadole to be precise). The organization helping me is Nepal Reliance Organization. Please stay posted for weekly updates of our adventures.