Monday in Kasana!

On Monday, February 20th the team drove to, Kasana, a rural village in the Kayunga district, which borders the river Nile.  Apparently it has a real mosquito problem and as such,  it was one of the villages chosen for net distribution.  It has been declared a "Truedell village" as the money raised by our school was directed towards net distribution here.  When we arrived the whole village was gathered to receive us.  As we exited the van we were greeted by cheering, applause, and throat singing by the locals.  It was quite a spectacle and very, very heartwarming.  The children were especially excited to see us and it seems that they were excused from school for the morning to be part of this important community event.  Everyone was dressed in their "Sunday best", especially the women, and I had a hard time taking it all in.  Before I knew it I was surrounded by children and Debra had to come and collect me for the ceremony.

Announcements were made, the team was introduced and I said a few words on behalf of our school.  Sarah translated for me and my few attempts at Luganda met with laughter and applause.  After this, Sarah conducted a short training session to ensure that all families knew how to use the nets, then we broke into groups to deliver them.  Names were called and people stepped forward one by one to receive a life saving net.  It was a magical morning and time went quickly.  While loading the van the children sang for us.  We met the headmaster of the school and many team members donated much need school supplies and soccer balls.  It was a wonderful experience for all and especially rewarding for me to see the delivery of the nets purchased with our fundraising dollars.  Students as you look at the pictures you can truly say, "I helped these people fight malaria.  I helped to save a life!"

The women greet us with throat singing! 

Debra delivers a life saving net.