Trip of a lifetime is a mission of mercy

Will Davies

A Henley brother and sister are about to fulfil the dream of a lifetime when they throw in their jobs, strap on their backpacks and fly to one of the poorest regions in the world.

Ryan Irving, 22, of Crisp Road, and sister Jade Sayer, 29, of Lower Assendon, are heading off in March to Darjeeling in north-east India where they will work alongside local volunteers to improve lives of special needs children and youngsters from the disadvantaged backgrounds.

Jade said: "It is something I've always wanted to do. I felt I wanted to give something back to the community — its more beneficial than just going on holiday."

Through charitable travel company, i-to-i, they will help teach basic English, organise group activities and encourage participation in extra curricular activities like arts and crafts, sports and games.
Ryan and Jade hope to contribute by bringing valuable native English skills — they are now qualified TEFL teachers — and will also offer advice on health issues.

In Darjeeling, there is a need to promote awareness of HIV and AIDS, and they will get involved with visiting educational instituations to disseminate information about the virus.

Jade added: "Everyone knows about the poverty in Africa, but in India a large percentage of the population live beneath the bread-line and it has more AIDS and HIV sufferers than any other country.

"Historically tea plantation workers in Darjeeling have received low wages and live in poor conditions, resulting in high levels of disease and low literacy rates.

"So next time enjoy a cup of tea, think of those less fortunate, who help bring it to your table!"