January 24, 2006

Since last July, I have been on a journey that has been the most remarkable of my life. The persistent sense of connectedness of people whose ideas and cultures are so different from my own continues to amaze me. So far, we have driven through eleven West and Central African countries and are well on our way to South Africa.

The welcome we have received both as individuals and as independent journalists in each country has been overwhelming. We have spoken with directors of international non-governmental organizations, volunteers and workers on the front lines, sex workers, young men and women. Through our website, we are hoping to connect these individuals and organizations to a larger audience and bring deserved attention to their stories. We are enthusiastic that our website continues to be visited from people all over the world who are curious about Africa and who seek an independent view of the HIV/AIDS situation here, as well as those who are following our progress (like our mothers).

Lying ahead, we expect some of the most challenging countries for our car and our selves. Tomorrow, we enter the Congo, from which we will drive south (with quick stops in Brazzaville and Kinshasa) through the Democratic Republic of Congo and down to Angola. We have carefully planned and been guided by chance to choose the safest route possible. The funds we have raised thus far will take us safely through these difficult areas. However, without further support we will be unable to compare our experiences in West and Central Africa to those in Southern and Eastern Africa. As many of you may know, these areas are the hardest hit by the epidemic.

I am putting out this request to my friends and family because we need your support. To find out how you can contribute to our campaign, please visit the sponsorship section. A detailed description of our budget and expenses is also available. Please consider forwarding a link to this page to anyone who may be interested, or could further our cause.

I hope your new year feels as blessed as mine.

– Tuuli