Off to Maui

Hello again TEP supporters! It’s great to be writing another blog update. As Cassie told you all I fell very ill in Tanzania and had to be rushed home one month short and my other trip to Madagascar was canceled. Between having Malaria twice, a bacterial infection and the stress from Bibi’s death it became too much for my body to handle. That was a very stressful time for all my friends and family so I appreciate all the consideration and support.

It was very upsetting to have to leave early. All I could think about were my students and how much I would miss teaching them as well as the family I had been adopted into. Coming home early and all the stress that I put on my loved ones with this illness has been some of the most difficult things I have ever had to deal with. However, I am a firm believer in the fact that everything happens for a reason, even though I can’t see the reason now I know someday it will all make sense.

I have fully recovered now and although my trip was cut short I haven’t let it get me down. My dream has always been to do research in or around the ocean so instead of doing it in Madagascar I will be shipping out to Maui in one week to look for jobs.

Even though I will be miles away I still plan on being very involved with TEP. Im excited to throw fundraisers in Maui and get the local community involved there. I feel so honored to be a part of this organization and I cannot wait to watch it grow. I am so proud of the work that we did and the lives that we have impacted. Thanks again to everyone for the prayers, wishes and continued support.



All the best,

Teresa O’Neill