The trip was a life changing experience. The friends that I made will be friends for life. The trip has helped me in many different ways. I came over with a bleak and pessimistic outlook on life, but this experience changed that. I can see a more brighter, prospective future.

During the two weeks, everyone has learned or gained something from the trip.

For me to pick out my favourite event in the two weeks is impossible. The outings that were organised and the events that took place were fantastic.

A lot of hard work and organisation is put into these two weeks and it shows.

The volunteers that let us dine for free, places like Jackie Reillys. NYPD for organising a picnic. Also the chaperones who gave up their holidays to help Physically Challenged people whom they had not met before. It is a very kind and courageous act to step forth and to volunteer for a charity like this. Without them it would not be possible. Also the organisers such as Declan, Leo and Sheila who work behind the scenes setting everything up, making everything run smoothly.

The Jordan family who so kindly welcomed us and made us feel like part of their family. If there ever was a problem, you would go to "Momma Pat", formally known as Pat Jordan. She would be there with what you needed. If she didn't have it, she knew someone that did.

All in all, this was a life changing event and my favourite part of the trip was gaining Hope. Hope that there are good people in the world. Hope that it is not all black and white. And most of all, that there is a blue sky up ahead. No matter how dark the picture or how big the cloud, there is always Hope. Hope is the one thing that keeps you going in this life. Without it, nothing will be achieved.

Katie O'Halloran, Team of 2005.