Helen's thoughts...
OceanStars :: Friday 10th October 2008 :: This Story
Way back in 1985 I went off to Ohio to work on summercamp. A couple of mornings after my arrival I awoke to meet a new Sri Lankan pal who had arrived in the night .The swimming coach!!!! That was Janaki. After working the summer we travelled some of the States together,staying with family and friends of us both. As well as a lot of fun, including a party on Bourbon St,New Orleans celebrating Janaki's birthday(!), a much treasured friendship was born and it didn't take long until the country and its people became dear to my heart.
After our travels we promised to go together to her homeland......time passed, we both embraced life,got married( not to each other!!!) ,and although there was sometimes chat about the trip becoming a reality for us, our lives took over..but Sri Lanka has always remained close to my heart, maintaining contact with the country through sponsoring Sri Lankan children through Plan. One of those children, Dilshan was lost to the Wave.
When the Tsunami hit Asia and we all felt so helpless,it was with much love and enthusiasm I wanted to give something back. Dilanee, setting up Ocean Stars, has allowed me to become part of a very rewarding cause.
Being offered the opportunity to go with Ocean Stars has given me the chance to experience Sri Lanka not only with my old pal,(I had tears when I heard Janaki had decided she was joining the trip), but in a way that is much more meaningful and important to this World.
I thank all those involved with Ocean Stars for their commitment to this cause,especially Dilanee for making me part of OST in SL 2008.
I look forward to every part of it. I can not wait. Already I know I will be returning.Looking forward to sharing this adventure with you all.
loveHelen x:)
Helen's fundraising efforts can be seen at: http://www.justgiving.com/helenoliver2