reconstructive surgeons overseas to repair cleft palates

Hello Wayne,

Thank you for continuing the journey, and regarding the inspiration - I am glad to have returned the favour. Reading your emails over the years always got me thinking and asking myself what more I could be – they inspired me. I think it was where I got the quote from “accept the challenges so you may feel the exhilaration of victory”. How fantastic that feels.

The walk has changed the course of my life, I am now employed by Interplast Australia as a fundraising manager. Interplast send teams of reconstructive surgeons overseas to repair cleft palates and burn contractures. Amazing work has been done by this organisation in its 23 year history in Australia – over 16,000 operations. Some of the pictures break my heart but the surgery is relatively simple, dramatic and the change in the life of the patient is instant and profound. They now go to school, have friends and contribute to the betterment of their society.

I have done a few talks around the traps for the walk across the Simpson and would be happy to give a talk to your groups about the walk should you ever feel its appropriate. The talk I give is basically about how we did it and that one person really can make a difference. Let me know if I can help in any way.

I wish you well in your November seminar and know whilst not always easy you have the spirit to endure all of life’s challenges.

Thank you. Hope to keep in touch.

Debbie Shiell
Desert Mum