Dear Brenda's Friends and Loved Ones,

As many of you know, after graduating with her MBA in May, Brenda took on a great challenge this August. She joined the MBA Enterprise Corps and accepted an assignment in Bandiagara, Mali. Her role was to serve as the Business Advisor to the Global Sustainable Tourism Alliance. Brenda was thrilled to accomplish her dream of working in International Development.

On December 2, 2008, Brenda suffered a tremendous tragedy. She and her colleague, Cristina Nardone, traveled to the Dogon Region to visit a newly built water tower. As the tower filled with water, it collapsed on Brenda and Cristina. Sadly, Cristina succumbed to her injuries. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cristina's family. Brenda suffered many injuries, but was safely transported back to the States.

Today, Brenda is in a hospital in Connecticut healing from her injuries. Currently she is heavily sedated in order to allow her body the opportunity to rest and recover. Her prognosis is positive, but progress is slow. Brenda is a very strong and wonderful woman. The tremendous outpouring of concern for her well-being from family and friends is evidence of the deep support for her recovery.

We, Brenda's family, will keep this blog updated with new information as it becomes available. Many people have expressed the desire to help Brenda. At this time, the doctors and nurses treating her are the only ones that can directly help her. However, we appreciate your continual thoughts and prayers for her recovery. We will be sure to let you know if there are any tangible ways you can help.

Please continue to check this blog for updates. In addition, please post any comments you have on this blog. Brenda will be checking this when she is able to, which we hope is very soon.

Best Regards,