OFF THE ICE AND IN SCHOOL

by Matt Galbally

8 March 2012

Nothing can prepare you for a trip like this. You might think you are ready but the feelings you get and the experience itself, you can never prepare for. Not only is it an incredible adventure, but the emotional journey is full of surprises. 

The harsh cold, the extreme environment, walking on dangerously thin ice and through waist deep snow in a blizzard is trying at times, but to be in the company of young children and to imagine what they're experiencing is overwhelming and humbling. Imagine, a 4 year old orphan, who's never left home before, walking for a week in conditions where a thoughtless step could mean death, just to get to school - and these are the ones lucky enough to have the opportunity to go to school. 

So after 2 weeks of walking we were relieved to be off the ice, especially to learn that only hours after, a major part of the river had collapsed, becoming impassable. The army was called in to retrieve those stranded. 

To see the excitement of the children to be in school and to realise what a privilege it is for them, made everything else seem trivial. I feel truly blessed to be involved with such a worthy cause. 

Many thanks to all those who have supported me, Lille Fro and the kids.

Much love, 
Matt.