Remember the PH Carl Branfield who was killed by an elephant earlier this month? My wife, Niki wrote to to Carl's widow, Ann, and we heard back from her recently. She offered some glimpse of what it must be like. Sometimes people seem to forget how fragile life is and how one's passing effects the survivors. More so in cyber space. Thought I'd share her e-mail to us so that "We Band of Brothers" can send some thoughtful words and support to the family left behind by a man that had much in common to most of us and as much to lose. Her e-mail address is below



>From: "Hunt" <acaciasafaris@zol.co.zw>
>Subject: Re: Thank you
>Date: Mon, 18 Apr 2005 21:16:48 +0200
>
>Dear Kieth and Niki
>
>Thank you so much for your kind words and sharing your experience with me,
>my
>husband always put the clients safety first, He was doing what he loved even
>though it caused us much worry and concern. It has been the worst 3 weeks
>of
>my life and we are still trying to get things in order as the support and
>comfort stops our days get longer and harder. My girls read the emails
>every
>day hoping to hear something about their dad. We will carry on hunting as
>that is what Carl would of wanted. We have been so comforted by all your
>kind jestures. Kind regards Ann Candice & Stacy
>


Maybe someone out there can re-new T. Carr's post on this?

Keith,

As of today, I have collected $1,250 (including my contribution).

If any one wants to make a contribution PM or email me

bunduki@sbcglobal.net

The last day to accept contributions is Monday the 25th. So there is still time.

I plan on contacting Mrs. Bradfield on Tuesday the 26th to get her banking information so that I can wire the funds.

Regards,

Terry

P.S.
Thanks to all those who sent me their contributions.

P.S.S.
Link to Prior Post

Keith,

I emailed Ann last week, talked about all the good things I've heard about Carl, and that he was doing what he loved. I added that I was going over to Zim next month. She sent me a very nice note back a few days ago, sighed By her , Candice & Stacy.

btt

I wonder if Carl had any life insurance? Then again, would an insurance company underwrite someone in his business? I tried to get an additional term policy before my last trip to Africa and was rejected when they saw my impending African travel plans, so obviously the companies are aware of the risk...

C'mon guys,

This level of total contribution and worse, participation, is pretty weak.

If every guy that has looked at just this topic, which was three hundred when I signed on, contributed a paltry $10, that would darn near triple the help going to this family to overcome a huge and tragic loss on every level.

As it is the average contribution is about $114 and thats great, though it might be too much for some here. ANYBODY can take a pass on a sixpack or so, drive past the Mc Donalds or get the lunch special a couple of days instead of the full price stuff and scrape together something.

I don't know how many members of AR participate in the African related boards but there's about 120 logged on now and just a bit from all would make a real difference.

I don't know these folks but what Carl Branfield did and other PH's do is what allows those of us who can to go and those of us who are not quite there to dream. A few bucks to stay in touch with that dream would be well spent and good for the soul too.

My plea!

JPK

Terry, I will send a check out tomarrow.
JPK, Thanks for making me think that even a small contribution multiplied by many caring individuals will help to soften the loss this family must be feeling.
Frank

Well said JPK.

Just to let everyone know where we stand. As of today, I have received 11 donations (including mine). Everything from $20 to $250. As I said before, any amount of contribution, will be appreciated.

Regards,

Terry

P.S.
I have stopped visiting the Mercedes dealership. But I have my eye on a nice riding lawn mower. So send in those contributions.