Everyday I am surrounded by water and the classic line “Water, water everywhere, nor any drop to drink,” could not be more true. Although over 70% of our planet is covered by water, only 1% is potable.
My passion for water began the same time I learned about ocean rowing, in literally the furthest place from my hometown in Cleveland, Ohio: Melbourne, Australia. It was in Melbourne that I learned about the water crisis as they were experiencing extreme drought. The facts are startling; over one billion or one in six people are without safe drinking water. The most basic human need. Water is the root cause of several other issues including health, environmental, educational, and even a major factor in woman empowerment issues.
But there is hope. The solutions are available and often very cheaply. For as little as a $30 donation, one person can gain access to safe water for life! There is no cause that speaks louder to me — water is the source of all life!
Knowing this row has made even the smallest ripple of change has made every one of the million oar strokes it will take to cross this ocean worth it. So a huge thanks for all the support!
And, if you would like to learn about one of the projects funded as a result of this row, please read this blog: “Project Funded: Clean Water in Ile Lambi, and Corail, Haiti”.
Those of you who have looked at Katie’s FirstGiving site will have seen that she has already raised $46,000, enough to provide safe water for life for 1,500 people. There are hundreds of people who can take credit for getting the fundraising to the level that it is today, from individuals to organizations. One of these has been the Rotary Club of Chagrin Valley, who even provided the Mini-Wilson you’ll have seen earlier in the trip. Before Katie set off, they raised over $15,000 for safe water, and are planning another fundraiser for Katie’s return.
But this isn’t an excuse to sit back and congratulate ourselves; let’s get it even higher! Just head on over to FirstGiving and click the donate button. It’s as simple as that! [Sam]
{ 10 comments }
Katie,
Thank you for sharing the vision and commitment to make your dream happen. It is easy to dream the idea but few people are brave enough to bring the idea down to reality. I believe every great adventure should spawn a thousand new ideas and the energy to make them happen. You are providing those ideas for the people who will have clean water and for all of us following your progress everyday. Congratulations on breaking through the half-way point. You are making this happen. Row on!
Paul
Just listened to the phone interview, and wanted to write before I go out to get the issue of P.M.
It was a thrill to hear your voice from out there, and it got a little emotional thinking about you there. You sound good, and I know you wouldn’t complain, so I feel you’re doing great. All the tough moments are what make it special. If it weren’t for them, far lesser people could accomplish what you are. But they can’t. Because they can’t perform in the tough moments. You are the best. You are wonderful. You are so tough. Carry on!
Katie, you are amazing. congratulations on reaching the 1/2 way point and beyond ! you are on your way home !! All of us at Pentair have been following your journey via your posts. We are behind you 100%, think about you all the time and marvel at each post and all the new information you are bringing to us!
Katie,
Congratualtions on a wonderful achievement at the halfway mark. Based on your information, and if my math is accurate, you seem to be averaging around 3.2 mph or the equivalent of a brisk walking pace – pretty amazing indeed! Know that the team here at Kinetico in Newbury is thinking about you and is very proud of the difference that you are (and will be) making in peoples lives.
We wish you a very safe next half of the journey and look forward to seeing you soon.
Warmest regards,
Shamus Hurley
President and CEO
Kinetico Incorporated
Katie: I just listened to your interview. . . .you sound awesome!!! I can’t wait every day to hear your progress. You are one amazing woman and so many are proud of what you have done so far and what a worthwhile cause -fresh water!! I live in Willoughy and hope to be able to meet you someday! Keep rowing. . .and God’s speed. Blessings!
Katie,
It was so good to hear your sweet voice. You have become an inspiration to so many people. What a gift you are sharing with everyone. We are blest to have you in our lives. We love reading your blogs and we are keeping you in our prayers daily. Congratulations on your halfway mark and stay strong. We are so proud of you !
Hi Katie:
I listen to your sat. phone interview and I had to laugh that you were sounding bored and somewhat disappointed with the fact that you haven’t had much bad weather. Wanting to see what your boat can really do… I have to tell you, I have followed ocean adventurers for a number of years and very few of them have that point of veiw. Some people might think you’re a little crazy for thinking this way, but I think that it really tells to your strength of character and your positive mental state. Your “Bring It On” additude demonstrates that you are right where you need to be. Why do this if you’re not going to embrace it? I hope that you are able to catch a few good waves, but stay safe. By the way, my four year old daughter loves to hear about the dolphins and fish, she has also asked me if you will be at Cedar Point this summer when we visit?
Her favorite place in OH. Enjoy, Peter
Katie
Thanks for being the change you want to see in the world!!!
Katie
Half Way! Super – May God continue to bless you richly for your concern for so many others in this world! The photos are amazing and cannot wait to hear from Sean, Ryan, Connor and Matt when you share your adventure with them. You are an inspiration – if Paige wants to follow in your footsteps, I am not sure I will be as brave and your mom and dad – but I know I would be as proud. God speed!
Half Way already!
Wow, you are so amazing, you must be really passionate about your cause! You are such an inspiring person, because after I heard about you I feel like doing my part to help my community. I am 11 year old in 5th grade, and you are my hero because you care so much to do something like this. I can’t believe that the birds keep coming back, you must be a pretty nice person huh? Best luck to you!
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