Trip of a lifetime for Ciaran Lee

Regan Kelly

Over the last 14 years, Tanzanian Heavenly Homes and John McCauley have provided opportunities for many people to make a difference in the lives of numerous Tanzanians.

This year, John brought a large group of people with him, one of whom is Westmeath native Ciaran Lee.

Along with his work in Tanzania, Ciaran raised money for a wheelchair so that elderly people in the village could get around more easily.

Ciaran said: "I helped raise money here in Westmeath, before heading out.

"It was great to see the money I raised being used to help someone who needed it. It was brilliant to see the smiles on their faces when they got the wheelchair."

"It makes you realise how many things we take for granted here in Ireland, when you see people over there and they have nothing, it’s a real eye opener."

Ciaran helped build a chicken coop for the elders, as well as some concrete paths and a cooling station.

He concluded by detailing the importance of a trip like this, on a personal level.

"I think taking a trip like this is important because it can change people, it can make you realise that there are people out there who are less fortunate than us, and I think it’s a great experience for people to do," he said.

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