What was a typical day like for you? What did you spend most your time doing?
We would start off each day by waking up early, getting ready, and eating breakfast with the whole team. The team would read a journal entry about the previous day and someone would recite a “thought for the day” that reminded us of why we were there. We got to the clinic around 9am and separated into our designated rooms. We fed, changed, and clothed when necessary, otherwise we would just play with them and show ‘em some love! Around noon we would put the kids down for a nap and we would go eat lunch together outside. Afterwards, we came back and did the same thing all over again. Around 4pm we would depart- usually stopping in town to buy things we needed or stuff for the children. We would then go back to our housing, eat dinner, and rest for the next day.
At what moment did you feel you were really making a difference?
Honestly, the first moment I walked in. When we first went to the clinic, the children threw their arms up in the air wanting so badly just be held by you. I knew by just a simple hug, that my presence was making a difference.
How was life in Romania different from life in the United States?
Romania is extremely different from the U.S. We couldn’t eat chicken or turkey because of the Avian Flu. Almost everyone surrounding us lived in poverty. Hardly anyone smiles. There weren’t many cars and there were vast lands as far as the eye could see. Do not let that scare you though; the differences between the countries are just culturally contrary effects. The differences really changed my perspective on things and allowed to go into the clinic with an enhanced, doer attitude.
What was your favorite part about the trip?
Did you do any sightseeing? What did you think about your free time?
We had one free weekend that we choose to go to Transylvania and see Dracula’s Castle, as well as Peles Castle (which was the home of a great King). It was very cool to see a little more of the country and hear about the culture. Some of the other people in our group choose to go the Painted Monasteries and see the creation of Black Pottery which I heard was very cool too. I’m glad we had a little time to ourselves just so you kept an eager approach when you were returned to the kids.
What about the trip surprised you the most?
The people on my team! They come from all over, of all ages, with all different personalities. It was great to see such different mindsets and lifestyles. Everyone had something unique to bring to the table.
Is there any advice or are there any stories that you believe are important to share with people considering this trip?
Do not hesitate. You may be thinking about work that you’ll be missing or obligations that you have, but this truly is a one in a lifetime opportunity. And trust me- there is no better time than the present.
What did the experience teach you?
I learned to appreciate the small things life and I now recognize that I am truly blessed in so many aspects of life. You do not realize what you have until you see that others only dream of what you do have. And remember- you cannot change the world, until you let the world change you.
What did this experience mean to you and how has it changed you?
This experience meant the world to me. I knew it would have a great impact on me, but until you go and touch the souls of so many children do you realize what an effect you made. I have changed expressively, emotionally, and psychologically- all of which were for the better.
A big thank you to Bridget to sharing her experience in Romania. Please contact us for more information on this tour or the Dr. Ken Magid Child Advocacy Scholarship.
Chelsea
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