Arriving in Delhi, India and I am going to say it – ‘What a culture shock!’. We nearly collected ten cows before pulling up at the alleyway to our hotel. This is why you come to another country – to experience life that is not like your own. Excited for more adventures and I think I am going to get them.

We arrived safely at Raphael, our own little mecca in this vast country of India. We settled into our accommodation, had a tour of the grounds, met a few of the carers, teachers and residents. We then ventured out to the local shop for supplies, afterwards enjoying a vegetarian evening meal back at Raphael. Power went out, apparently that happens a lot. It is India.

You wouldn’t be in India if you weren’t having trouble with the internet, but also having a wonderful time – riding in crazy tuk-tuks, being stared at by the locals and of course I say, ‘Hello’, eating dahl and vegetarian food, monkeys dancing on our roof, we hope our drying washing doesn’t go missing. Spending time with wonderful people in an amazingly different country. Everyone in Australia should experience this.

Time spent in Raphael, what can I say, ‘What an inspirational place!’ – full of wonderful people and the most special children. It is very humbling to be welcomed with open arms, love and lots of affection. Back into the classroom having learnt a few names and gestures, communication was difficult, but we seemed to manage.  We looked forward to Diwali and its celebrations. Weekends we were off to discover our surrounding area, going to Missouri and Rishikesh. We have some funny stories to tell – some at my expense – but I love to laugh as well.

On Diwali, Karen and I were in our room and the noise outside was deafening. We could have been in a war zone and we would have had no clue. The fireworks were continuous and loud. We had a lovely evening visiting Ava Vihar and trying tasty Indian treats and watching the residents have some fireworks of their own. We were included in the celebrations and annointed with an Indian mark. A very special evening.

Some school days I need three hands, Mayank, Yudo and Munta all wanting to hold my hand. It is wonderful that these young adults feel a bond with us. They are so happy to see each of us every morning.

Too quickly it was time to say goodbye.  I have to admit that saying goodbye was hard. It has been an amazing experience made all the richer by the other amazing volunteers and definitely by all the residents, staff and special people of Raphael I have had the chance to share this volunteering experience with.

 These precious memories will stay with me always.

Joanne volunteered at Raphael in 2016