Just wanted to share a story about Komang that I read on another forum - have authors permission to re-tell:
"We have had a few people recently join the BVD (Bali Vaseline Drive) page on Facebook who have asked if they could visit Komang. The family have asked that only the team caring for Komang's health make visits.
They want Komang to grow up like any little boy his age and they feel this wouldn't be possible if he is seen to be getting more attention than the other children in the village. We agree with this request, the last thing the family needs is to create jealousy amongst the people they mix with everyday. Love Helen:-() xoxo"
She then went on to post this:
"Thank you so much for your understanding. It saddened Brian yesterday when Komang's father told him that strangers had paid them a visit. It seems that these people asked for the address from a person they knew in Singaraja.
Komang's Dad said that he didn't want to appear rude and turn them away, but it made him feel confused, uncomfortable and upset, he couldn't understand why we had allowed this to happen.
Brian quickly put his mind at ease by explaining that he knew nothing about this visit and if this ever happened again, he should refuse to allow the stranger to see Komang. I must admit both Brian and I were stunned by this news, why on earth would someone want to make this part of their sightseeing trip. Love Helen:-((( xoxo"
Sometime "us" well meaning westerners think we are helping but really we're not.
If you want to truly help you can - I asked Helen what they really need at the moment and her reply was:
"PediaSure Baby Formula is always needed. We share it with Bali Kids who have their HIV/ HEP kids on it too. We go through a minimum of 12 large cans a week and if we have extra stock on hand then we can give it to other malnourished children who will also benefit by drinking it a couple of times a day. The Vaseline has helped Komang's skin and the PediaSure has done wonders for his growth and development. Helen"
Drop off points for those that don't know are:
"The main drop off point for donations is located in KUTA at the BAMBOO BAR & GRILL located on Jl. Kartika Plaza No 62A. The restaurant is right next door to Waterbom Park and directly opposite the steps leading up to Discovery Shopping Mall. Bamboo Bar & Grill are also able to accept financial donations by way of a donation tin set up at the entrance to the restaurant. Any money donated will be passed on to Bali Kids who are treating the children. Please go to http://www.bamboorestaurantbali.com/ for further information on the restaurant.
Another drop off point is located in LEGIAN at the BEACH MELATI APARTMENTS located on Jl. Padma Utara No. 10, next to The Ramada. Make sure you don't confuse them with the Melasti Beach Hotel which is down the road. Please go to http://www.beachmelatiapartments.com/ for further information on the apartments.
For people who are staying in SANUR you can drop your donations at the DUCKS NUTZ BAR AND GRILL which is situated in front of the Ugly Duckling Hotel on Jl. Danau Tamblingan No 72, accessible from Ngurah Rai Bypass"
Finally
"At this stage we are not equipped to be accepting donations of toys, clothing or other non-medical goods other than those mentioned."
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Hope this helps