July 10

This morning we checked out of the Abonaba Beach Resort in Cape Coast and made our way back to Accra. Before we left the city, we stopped by the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind. There are no words that can describe just how wonderful those children are. They were all so warm and friendly and very eager to teach me sign language.

Even though the students had never heard music before, they loved to dance. The students spent some time showing me some of their favorite moves. Everyone wanted to see how Americans danced too so I showed them a few hustles, which they quickly learned.

The school also gives the students a creative outlet by offering art classes. We were able to see some of the pieces in the art gallery and I was absolutely blown away. The paintings could have easily been created by professionals. Many of us bought some of the paintings to support the students and their cause and to bring a little bit of Cape Coast home with us.

I also met their teacher named William. He was a very kind and welcoming man. I really admire him for the dedication and encouragement he has shown to the students.


The students of Cape Coast Deaf have inspired me to learn sign language. I am also very excited to write to them and send them copies of our pictures upon my return to America. These children have truly made such an impression on me and I know that we will meet again.

Driving back to Accra was very busy because of Obama’s arrival. The people of Ghana were so excited. “Barack! Barack! Barack Obama!” Music played in the streets as people celebrated his arrival that evening.

That night I met my friend Samuel, a friend I met two years ago at Grand Valley who is from Accra. It was so great to see him and to catch up. We have both grown so much since we last saw each other. He has just finished his studies at Cape Coast University and is hoping to study at an American medical school soon so I know we will meet again soon!