Tolland Teen Who Beat Cancer Now Raising Funds For Clean Water

TOLLAND, CT - A Tolland teenager, who is fully recovered from a battle with cancer, has created a GoFundMe page to try and help children from Africa have clean water to drink.

Danielle Burns has raised more than $6,000 towards her $25,000 goal.

Here is her story:

“I have always been aware of the global water shortage. When I was 6 years old, I told my mom that when I was older I was going to fly to Africa with suitcases full of water bottles. 10 years later, at 16, I was diagnosed with cancer, making me eligible to Make A Wish.

“I decided to use the resources I have to do something similar to what my 6 year old self had planned. I wanted to Wish for something that would last far longer than a celebrity meet-and-greet or a Mediterranean cruise. I am working with Uganda Farmers Inc. to build a well for a primary and high school, supplying 2250 students with clean water.

“My wish will grant me a visit to Uganda to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony for the well, but there is a lot to be done before then...Think about how easy it is to grab a glass of water or buy a bottle cheap from a vending machine. Now imagine sending your kids 5 miles to and from a swamp to retrieve water that cannot be used until it is carried back and purified.

“This is reality in Uganda.

“Building this well will not only give the schools clean water, it will also give the students time. The time they would be spending walking for water, they will instead be spending in the classroom, or playing, or studying. They will be able to be kids.

“However, as you can imagine, it is not cheap to provide clean water with such limited resources. Any donation large or small is appreciated, not only by me but the children in Iganga, Uganda. They need this.”

To support Danielle’s efforts, go to here page here: https://www.gofundme.com/ptdsp-danielles-wish-for-water

Photos provided by Uganda Farmers, Inc.