When I woke up this morning I had zero idea of what kind of day I would be having, and the incredible people that I would be encountering. While touring the Sakata school I met this incredible little boy. At first he was very shy and content with just watching the group from afar. Once we went into a classroom and began taking pictures, he wanted to be right in on the action. He wanted to be in every picture and loved seeing what he looked like on the camera. He would giggle every time he saw himself, which was just adorable. As we toured the rest of the school grounds, we became inseparable. He held my hand and did not want to let go. When I tried to let go of his hand to do something he would only squeeze harder and look at me like he didn’t want me to let go. While we only spent a small amount of time together he has already impacted me and I will forever remember him.
Written By: Katelyn Wnek, Student Nurse
Have fun Katie. We are can’t wait to see the pictures. So proud of you 😘❤️😘
Thanks so much! I can’t wait to see you guys to tell you all about my trip! Love you!!
Omg we are so proud of you. I had goosebumps when I read this. Good luck with your studies and have fun.
Thank you so much!! I still cannot believe the things I have gotten to do this past week!
Katie,
Your story choked me up & made me a little teary eyed. What a awesome feeling you must have felt. God Bless the little boy & all the people you met. And God Bless America!
Stay safe, love you!
I still get teary eyed thinking of this little boy as well. He was so incredibly sweet!! I am so blessed to have met so many incredible people this past week! Love you!
Hi Katelyn,
Wow! What a beautiful story. Where are you?
Our daughter in-law, Julie is a hard working nurse here in Neenah, WI.
This is Patrick Wnek, your Father’s cousin.
Also, Marianne’s brother.
Hi Patrick!
I was in the country of Malawi in Africa. We were specifically in the Zomba district in the villages of Sakata. That is awesome your daughter is a nurse! I cannot wait to start my nursing career in May!
Hi Katelyn — I am the older daughter of Irene Wnek, Marianne is my sister and obviously your Dad is my cousin. My name is Jackie. I remember you as a child and just had to respond to the article your Dad forwarded. Congratulations on the wonderful work you are doing in Africa and what a wonderful opportunity for you to experience life outside of the U.S. I’m sure you are realizing people are people no matter where we travel, especially children. Although their lives are so different than ours responding to kindness is a need we all have. Your new little friend is just adorable and I’m sure the time you have spent with him will also be a lasting memory for him. You must be a special, compassionate young lady to chose to spend spring break in Africa. Continue to nurture that spirit throughout your life.
Safe travels home and I hope to meet you someday in person. Sending you a hug…..
Thank you so much for the kind words, i appreciate them so much. The people of Malawi will have a lasting impact on me and I hope I made an impact on them. This trip was life changing and I am so thankful for the experiences that I have had! I hope I get to see you again soon!
Love, Katelyn
Katelyn—so very proud of you! What an experience. I know one you will never forget.
God Bless you and safe travels home.
Love, Marianne Wnek
Thank you so much for the comment! I appreciate it so much. I can guarantee that I will never forget Malawi or the people I have met in the past week. I am home safe and sound again in Cincinnati.
Love, ‘
Katelyn
Katy- Sorry it took so long to reply. Have been tied up with the new house . Sounds like a very humbling experience . Once in a life time experience.
Uncle Mark
Wonderful story. Did you meet him in “Ruth’s Rooms”? This room was funded in honor of my wife and the mother of Bob Rhoad, VIP’s President.. Do yo know the boys name? It would be nice if we could follow his education progress and perhaps fund his future education. God has truly blessed you.