| It’s been over 23 years since we became GIBTK! Looking back, I wish I would have kept track of the number of trips to SE Asia. If I were to estimate, I’d say well over 80 round-trip international flights, and then there’s the in-country flights. |
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| It’s unbelievable that it’s been 23 years of GIBTK |
| So often I hear, “Oh, must be so glamorous with all the travel.” Truth be told, it has been an incredible journey which has transformed not only me, but even more importantly, the lives of so many! |
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| The hearts we’ve helped heal and are still healing |
| Typing this, I am on a flight to Cambodia, our second time this trip! We’ve got some turbulence. We all boarded well, most all, lol a bit after scheduled boarding time. Then came the wait. After about a half-hour, announcement that had to do something with immigration. To make a long story short, we waited well over an hour without the plane moving. Then about 10–15 passengers “slowly” boarded. Yes, there is trying times. |
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| Heart Meeting, more than just a gathering, it’s a life-changing experience |
| Yet as I think back a few days to our recent meeting for families seeking funds for their children’s heart surgeries, I get a smile not only on my face but am sure there’s a big smile on my heart! The kids needy, moms in tears, heartbreaking stories — BUT!Two past heart surgery recipients came to share what their lives are now. |
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| Tears of joy when their children are saved |
| There is something incredibly humbling about this job.An came with her father and mother. Her surgery was 18 years ago. This July she graduated with a degree in Economic Law! Planning to continue to her Master’s degree next year. |
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| An — a former heart patient, now striving to pursue her Master’s degree |
| Nga also had her life-saving surgery 18 years ago as well. Currently a primary school teacher. Her dream: to get a Master’s degree in Education. She is in her 3rd semester now as well as teaching. Her goal is to one day be the a principal or vice principal at a primary school, either at her current school or another one in the future. |
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| Nga, the girl who had heart surgery 18 years ago, now completely healthy |
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| Both shared their experiences with the “new” families. Yes, there’s lots of flights, delays, etc. Concern about economy and funding, govt. changes. BUT IT’S ALL WORTH. Think about coming and seeing. Plan a trip our team will help with details etc. THANK YOU FOR BEING GIBTK! |
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| We’re very pleased to help children in difficult circumstances as part of its mission. Become an important part of our work by contacting us at robert@givingitbacktokids.org or visiting our website: gibtk.org. |
| “We highly appreciate you and thank you for transforming lives” |
| Robert KalatschanGiving it Back to Kidswww.gibtk.orgrobert@gibtk.org |
