Inspirational trip for schoolgirl Ella
A trip to Nepal changed a little girl’s dream of becoming an actress into a desire to help children less fortunate then herself.
When nine-year-old Ella Wood was taken on a volunteering trip to an impoverished Himalayan school her mum Sam wasn’t sure how she would cope.
Ella, from Horley, was a typical young girl used to a daily diet of television, computers and creature comforts.
But Sam was relieved when her daughter adapted to cold showers, electricity blackouts and sleeping on planks of wood.
She said: “Me life’s changed massively and so has Ella’s, she’s like a different child.
“Before we went she took everything for granted, leaving the water running and the lights on. In Nepal there were no creature comforts at all.
“She really loved the lifestyle but if I’m being honest before I took her she was an absolute spoiled brat. I thought if this doesn’t work out I’m going to be in trouble. But now she wants to be doctor or osteopath instead of an actress or singer, which I think for a nine-year-old is pretty inspiring.”
Sam and Ella took the month-long trip to Bunganati, in Lalitpur province to help at Clarke Memorial Himalayan Primary School, where the children lack basic resources and teachers are paid $25 a month.
Sam and Ella helped teach the children about nutrition, art, numeracy and literacy and have been inspired to do more to help the struggling children.
Ella, who goes to Meath Green Junior School, is planning a cake sale to raise money for basic supplies at the Nepalese school.
Meanwhile Sam wants to return to volunteer again in December with an eventual dream of opening a school out there.
Sam, a former City worker turned meditation and yoga teacher, added: “It’s the kids’ general appreciation that’s life-changing. They’ve got nothing but they manage to smile all day. Over here everything is taken for granted.”
Sam and Ella are appealing for donations to the school. If you would like to help call Sam on 07540588092 or email mssmwood@gmail.com.
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Weather for Crawley
Thursday 23 May 2013
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 4 C to 12 C
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Wind direction: North west
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