Why I chose BEDERUP

For the one or two of you who follow this blog, you know that I've contacted several charitable organizations in Cameroon and offered my services to them while visiting. Four groups responded:
REPERID
Kumbo, Cameroon, Northwest province

BERUDEP
Belo, Cameroon, Northwest province

HINT
Buea, Cameron, Southwest province

CITEC
Yaounde, Cameroon, Central province

All had their distinct advantages and disadvantages, but I chose BEDERUP for the following reasons:
1. This organization is located EXACTLY where the DNA test describes my origins, the Tikar tribes from the Northwest province. Obviously this is the most desirable place to explore my background.
2. Godwin Mahwoh, the director, made the most personal connection. If you look back on previous posts, he sent pictures from previous volunteers. In his email communication he has made attempts to create a personal connection for me. He went into great detail about the area. He's sent me articles on the problems the villagers face and has made me sympathetic to their plight.
2. The BEDERUP website provided the most comprehensive information on it's program--particularly with volunteers. All the information I need is on the website. It gives me a feeling of assurance that this is a well organized group and I'll feel safe.
3. The other groups communicate much less with me. And when they do, they focus on what I can provide for them, but seldom take the time to talk about what the experience can offer me. This is a mutual situation. We both get something. With the others I'm worried I might not bring enough "gifts" (all volunteers must bring gifts). I have no problem with taking gifts. I WANT to give. But I want to feel welcomed as a sister too. I got that feeling more with BEDERUP. Don't get me wrong, BEDERUP has expectations of me too, but I've developed a sense of caring for them.

Next posts: Wire transfer of funds to hold a spot at BEDERUP; change in video production schedule plans, change in workout regimen to get ready for the trip . . .

Explanation for long post absence

Ok, I hope I'm back posting consistently. I've never mentioned it before, but I deal with a chronic kidney ailment. I never wrote about it on the blog because I wanted a place/world/universe where it doesn't exist. Also, if the organizations who've invited me to come were to know about this they might be hesitant to allow me entry. This ailment already interferes with so many other aspects of my life. I didn't want it to be the cause of preventing me from conducting this trip the in the manner I want.

However, I decided to write about it because it is a major factor in this trip. The ailment generates constant pain, which interferes with my daily routine. Each day I'm concerned that I won't have the energy to make this trip. Yet, it motivates me to strive harder to find a solution to end this ailment, and if I can't end it at least I can manage it and keep on with my life.

Hopefully, the next post on this subject will be the last. I hope I'll be expressing how happy I am that I've overcome it or manage it well. I refuse to let it prevent me from going on this trip and having the marvelous time I deserve.

Hope and faith . . .

And the winner is . . .

BERUDEP!!!!

I've selected BERUDEP as the organization with whom I'm going to volunteer. I will explain why in my next post.

My apologies to the one or two people who read this blog. I've been under the weather and swamped with work, but I've always been on the case with Project Cameroon. In the next few days I will tell of all the progress going on with the project. I'm excited...........................................................