This time last year I was departing India, and leaving with it one of the most intense experiences of my life. The 5 weeks I spent there were mesmerising but with each day bringing a new challenge but with one week standing out from the rest, my time in Bodh Gaya. Choosing this location at random in order to escape the craziness of Kolkata, all I knew about it was that it was where the Buddha had reached enlightenment. During my stay here I met a man called Mikku, who showed me the city and brought me to Elizabeth Children's Home. He and many others, most notably, Pr.Nakul Dev help out of their own pocket, and give these children the time, love and care they need. I visited every day during my stay giving short lessons and seeing the conditions they live in. The building is made of a 2 rooms (boys and girls) where around 30 children sleep, eat and study in everyday, a small office, kitchen and toilet. There are a few chickens that live in their hallway leading to a half built concrete staircase to the rooftop. This is where the children play and the clothes are hung to dry.

This children's home is in desperate need of repair, expansion and immediate help with bills, rent and food.

I made a promise to raise money for them and with this chairty swim in the Serpentine approaching it is the perfect time to act on it. I will either be returning to Bodh Gaya after graduation to hand them the money or find an appropriate messenger and regulate what it is being spent on. I do not simply want to send the money over as I am worried over its misuse.