Official Departure Date: November 1st

It’s official. I fly out to the Louisiana region on November 1st to volunteer at the Alley Cat Allies base camp for a week. They’ll put me to work and I’ll know I will make a difference in the lives of the animals still struggling to survive there.

I’ve been wanting to do this since Katrina blew through the region, knowing that I had real skills to offer and I wouldn’t just be a space filler.

I’m both anxious and excited. Anxious, considering it’s a “toxic and bacterial ridden wasteland”, according to a friend of mine and excited, well, because I know it will be an adventure.

Judging from the essential items list I was sent, I have most everything I will need. A few things, such as mosquito netting, mouth coverings (surgical masks, bandanas) and thick “bite-proof” work gloves that fit correctly are things I will have to purchase. I think what freaks me out about those items is that they are on the essential items list, not just a suggested items list.

This trip and those items I will need are all paid for out of my pocket. I am keeping costs as low as possible (buying tickets on Southwest, looking for car rental coupons, etc.), but I am shocked at how much it is going to cost. If you support this endeavor I am doing, and can spare a dollar or two, please click the donation button on the left to help offset the cost.

Of course, as I count the days until I go, I will be communicating all that is happening. I also plan to take lots of photos and keep a paper journal while there so I may share my experiences upon my return.

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