"I have been but little in," said Ninian hastily...

I really didn't expect to be this upset by something this early in the morning.

But I was looking for this story from NPR about a free health care event held recently in West Virginia (followed by a similar event in LA organised by the same group).

And I also hit the website for the group, called Reach Across America.

Where I learned that they use C-47, also known as DC-3 or Dakota, transport aircraft to get their supplies and equipment from place to place.

Any of you who are among my wargaming/military history buff friends will likely know the C-47 from its pivotal role as a military aircraft. The C-47 was used to drop US paratroops over Normandy and British paras over Arnhem, to bring supplies to Bastogne and across the "Hump" from India to China. The plane my Dad hopped on in 1942, to spend hours flying in the freezing cold over the Himalayas, so as to spend part of his 21st birthday in Chengdu "because it was better than sitting around the barracks" was probably a C-47.

Folks, they stopped making these planes in 1945. They were great planes, but they are older than *I* am. By 20 years.

And that's what this group of volunteers is depending on to move medical supplies they are giving away for free to people who have no other hope for healthcare.

Please consider donating to their appeal for funds for an upgraded aircraft. I know I will be giving them what I can.

My buddy ban_leodhasach is taking part in The Poppyscotland Hearts & Heroes Challenge on 16th May 2009. It's a 12-hour walking/running challenge that crosses a stunning 29-mile section of the Southern Upland Way.

Money raised from this event will be used to support the work of the three charities involved: Poppyscotland, The Sportsman’s Charity and Hearts & Balls. These charities are working together on this event to promote their overarching aims: to assist with social inclusion; to support veterans and their families in Scotland who are affected by a number of issues including financial, physical and psychological problems; and to provide pastoral and financial care to rugby’s seriously injured young people.

Her fundraising target is £400, and any pennies you can spare in sponsorship will be gratefully received. You can contribute to her challenge by clicking here.

This is late notice, but better late than never (I hope).

Restaurant participating in the Thanksgiving in February program donate the proceeds of their meals from one meal today to local homeless outreach programs and other services in the Montgomery County area that help people who need short-term assistance.

Breakfast is past and lunch is proceeding, but if you have no plans that prevent it, you might consider dining out this evening at a participating restaurant.

Really, what is as fun and as good a way to take one's mind off one's troubles as to spend money? ( Read more... )