Chapter 16  Chernobyl Children

Muriel Lynch, Wexford: 7 March 2014

Hi Toby,
 
You don’t know me, but I am your auntie Muriel from Wexford in Ireland.

I am involved with bringing children from Belarus to Wexford for a three-week holiday every July. These children are called Chernobyl Children. Over 25 years ago a nuclear factory exploded, causing a lot of damage to the earth in Belarus. Everything the children eat and drink is contaminated, so the children have a very poor immune system. They get sick very often. Their three-week holiday in Ireland helps build up their immune system. With fresh air, fresh fruit and plenty of milk, they are guaranteed two to three years added to their lives.

I have a market stall where people donate things to me to sell, and the money I get goes towards the funds to bring the children over here. The enclosed train set came to me, so I bought it for you. I hope you are not too big to play with it.

You have lots of cousins in Wexford. Maybe some day when you are big you might come for a visit.

Now I must go and post your train set to you. Bye for now.

Lots of love,
 
Auntie Muriel and Uncle David