A few years ago, Kate Coffey, a long-time Bowen resident and commuter developed a hankering. She had a stellar career in the investment management field, a calendar filled with social commitments including frequent connections with friends and family, a sweet apartment in the city and a cozy home on Bowen. Yet, something was driving her in an entirely different direction, some might say, on a quest.
What Kate has come to call her “mid life enlightenment” began after she chucked her job, sold her apartment and set off for a year-long excursion that would take her to eight countries and three continents. Among the many highlights were her volunteer stints in Nepal and Bangladesh. There she focused her time and expertise working for five months at the Spinal Injury Rehabilitation in Kavre, Nepal and two months in rural Bangladesh for BRAC, the world’s largest NGO with an impressive track record of alleviating poverty through the application of micro financing.
Having this opportunity, says Kate, was a “privilege and a revelation” from which she gained immensely, and far beyond the value of her own contribution. In Nepal she was repeatedly humbled by the “moral enthusiasm” of people helping people despite scarce resources, harsh conditions and the endless need to overcome formidable challenges. She was inspired by the quiet determination and fortitude of poor rural women in Bangladesh, who, despite appalling situations, persevere to create a better world for their children and their children’s children. Witnessing this, said Kate, “takes in joyful hope to a whole other level and reminds me to be grateful and not take for granted the opportunities life has presented to me.”
There’s no doubt that Kate’s 12 months away was an “epic year” for her. She admits to an “air of quiet excitement” about her future. She uses the word “blessed” when talking about how fortunate she was to meet, spend time and work with people from diverse cultures. She feels indebted to them for supporting her on her journey.
To continue in service to those who have helped her recognize her true essence and find clarity in her search for meaning, Kate is presenting Telling a Story – Living and Working in Bangladesh on Sunday, January 18, from 2 pm – 4 pm at the Gallery @ Artisan Square.
The talk and slide show is a fundraiser in aid of the Poor Patient Fund at the Spinal Injury Rehabilitation Centre (SIRC) and will include presentation by Dr. Peter Wing and Dr. Claire Weeks, also residents of Bowen and longtime supporters of SIRC. The cost for admission is $15 and tickets are available at Phoenix and at the door. The afternoon includes delicious Nepali snacks and chai. Everyone is welcome.
To learn more about Kate’s adventure, you can read her blog online at bowen2bangledesh.wordpress.com.
