Isabelle and David Drappier- More than friends

A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be.

Douglas Pagels

When I left Belgium, I knew I was leaving a piece of my heart behind. I knew I had so much ahead of me. Human Rights Work I wanted to pursue, things to learn and above all explore a new world. The most difficult part was leaving behind my two best friends- David and Isabelle.

On August 26, 2006, David and Isabelle got married in Belgium. They felt that they were blessed abundantly and wanted to share some of their blessings for a good cause. They made a donation to the Karen Maryann Scholarship. Today 6 students are educated in their name.

David and Isabelle are both involved and aware of the preference a male child receives in India compared to a female child. They have opted to educate 6 girls, ranging in the ages of 6-14 years.

They have encouraged me in this endeavour of mine and have been my sounding board from day one. They have always helped me to look at the bigger picture-helping those in need.

To- Nousse and Nousette (my names for them), thank you for your contribution but above all for your gift of friendship.

The Karen Maryann Scholarship

Three years ago, I remember reading this Chinese Proverb again and again.

If you are planning for a year; sow rice
If you are planning for a decade; plant trees
If you are planning for a lifetime; educate people

Three years ago an idea was born; it came to fruition on January 17, 2007. When Karen Maryann Pereira passed away on October 26, 2003, I knew she wanted her legacy to live on. Her legacy lives on through her children- Kane and Candice, but more through her commitment during her lifetime to educate children.

Where: The Karen Maryann Scholarship was started at St. Mary's Girls High School in Mangalore, India. This was Karen's alma mater and where Karen studied from grade 3 to 10. This was a place where she got her foundation in faith and education.

What: This scholarship will benefit 30 deserving students from the Kannada medium, where tuition fees, school supplies etc, will be provided for the first year.

This is a small beginning but dedicated one. This scholarship will be sustained over the years as there are plans to open a trust in her name where proceeds will go to various schools all over India.

Please feel free to e-mail me your suggestions, questions, feedback etc
at
karenmaryannscholarship@gmail.com