Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit Dr Graham’s Homes - to see the campus and meet the children you support and write to?

DGHUK supporter Pat Lomax was lucky enough to do that just recently. She got in touch to see if we could arrange a supervised meeting with Rosy, the girl she sponsors, while visiting Kalimpong earlier this year. We were happy to help.

How did the trip go, Pat?

It was a very enjoyable visit - despite having arrived from Sikkim with the Norovirus! However, I was well cared-for by Betsy, Sailender the cook and other staff at Ahava, the [DGH] guest house.

What was it like to meet Rosy?

It was such a joy to meet Rosy, the lovely girl whom I sponsor. We met several times. When visiting the Homes, you will be approached by girls (and boys) interested to know who you are and where you are from. They may share their crisps and just generally be friendly and fun.

What did you make of the Homes?

The kindergarten classrooms are cheerful and brightly decorated with posters. The children are always keen to have their pictures taken!It was interesting to visit various cottages and really fascinating looking round the museum, though it was just in the process of being reorganised. It was lovely too to join in school worship in the Jubilee Hall.

What else did you get up to during your visit?

While I was there, I was able to visit friends in Kalimpong (and buy Kalimpong lollipops by request from a friend in the UK!). On the last day, the school chaplain kindly took me to visit friends further up the mountain — friends who had been kind to me when I was there 12 years ago. A first for me were Red-vented Bulbuls, White-cheeked Bulbuls and a Verditer Flycatcher!

I would encourage anyone who can, to sponsor a child there — and then to visit!

If you are interested in visiting the Homes or sponsoring a child, you can find out more here, or by contacting the Sponsorship Secretaries.