On Sunday, April 29, more than 300 people gathered in the lovely garden of a Silicon Valley home to support GAIA’s programs. After inspiring talks by GAIA Nursing Scholar Kaboni Gondwe and medical doctor and novelist Abraham Verghese, event emcee Anne Lamott urged attendees to give joyfully, saying “GAIA is a purveyor of grace bringing hope … and a little fresh air to people who cannot breathe.” And support they did, contributing nearly $100,000 during the Fund-a-Need Appeal, to bring the event’s total amount raised to $275,000 (and counting!). A simply wonderful vote of confidence and support!

Kaboni’s words were particularly poignant as Malawi transitions to new leadership: “Just as GAIA supported me, I am committed to supporting GAIA. It is my partner. It is Malawi’s partner for a healthier, self-sufficient future. My life has not been easy, but every trial and triumph has carried a lesson with it for me to unfold.”

And Dr. Verghese reminded the crowd of the continuing enormity of the AIDS challenge: “The language of science doesn’t capture this tragic voyage.”

I remain ever impressed and grateful for the enormous support demonstrated by friends of GAIA. The work that we do is only possible because of this generosity. On behalf of the 4000 orphans we will support this year, or the 181 Nursing Scholars, or 150,000 patients that will visit our Mobile Health Clinics: THANK YOU!

Todd Schafer
GAIA President & CEO