Posts Tagged ‘Bocas’

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Guest Blogger Jess Cramp’s Photo Journal: Part 1

Our Guest Blogger, Jess Cramp, shares with us some of her most incredible experiences, bits of wisdom, and beautiful photography in this photo journal.

“I’ve wanted to fly for as long as I can remember.  So when I decided to take the leap and follow my dreams, this was first on the list!”

“First stop:  Port-Au-Prince, Haiti.  I volunteered in a field hospital as a pharmacist and learned fairly quickly that I was not tough enough for disaster relief. Haiti was heartbreaking and humbling.”
PHOTO CREDIT: Cody Doucette

“I remember being completely amazed at the smiley, relaxed faces on many of the kids, even with a panorama of unsightly tragedies.”
PHOTO CREDIT: Cody Doucette

“Next stop:  Panama.  I spent about six months volunteering in Bocas del Toro, Panama-mostly in water quality and marine science education. But my real passion was found in trying to help the local indigenous tribe, the Ngobe-Bugle, to start a sea turtle monitoring program.”

“Bocas is a Caribbean jewel with gorgeous beaches and amazing waves, but there’s so much litter along the roads, in the drains and along the back beach that it hurts my soul.”

“I felt so lucky to be a part of the Water for People team in Santa Cruz del Quiche, Guatemala.  They work with communities on clean water, hygiene and sanitation.  And my favorite part is that they stick around to ensure the systems work.”

“Hand-washing can save lives in developing countries.  These little ones are on the right track thanks to W4P’s commitment.  Kid sized washing stations at a cistern full of water!”

“Guatemala.  Imagine someone coming to your home unannounced and asking when and how often you wash your hands?  When you travel, spend time with locals.  Drink the water they offer, even if it has six teaspoons of sugar in it.  Sit in their home.  Listen.  You will have no choice but to adapt your views of the world.”

With love and sunshine,
Jess

 

Learn more about Jess through her Matador Ambassador profile

Check out more of Jess’s experiences on Destination Global Good