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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

A writer’s first book is an expedition through unmapped territory; greatly aided by the generosity of those who point out the inevitable pitfalls along the route and, in doing so, give of their time and interest.

I spent two months writing it in Mexico, overlooking the Pacific Ocean at “Cuachalala,” generously provided by Maria Cristina and Wojtek Stebelski. Ramsay Derry spent hours meticulously editing the early stages of the book, and Ruth Smith, my assistant, typed endless drafts. Jim Gifford of Toronto and Nicky Blundell Brown of Kenya offered useful advice. Patricia Kennedy and Janice Zawerbny, my editors, and Patrick Crean, my publisher, were patient and generous beyond measure. Others including family members who know the author only too well offered insights—mostly positive. Special mention of my father, Tony, and brother, Tim, is affectionately noted.

This book is a true account of my flight to Africa and the two years spent in Nairobi with my wife, Krystyne, working with the Flying Doctors Service there. The book is an accurate record as seen from a personal perspective; only the mission flights have been constructed in a dramatic format as a story to hold the reader’s interest.

I have abandoned any attempt to disguise names, with a few exceptions, since it would be too easy for those featured in the book to identify themselves. I accept responsibility and offer apologies to anyone who believes they have been misrepresented—the intention, in every case, was to portray Africa’s characters, who are legion, as accurately as possible; seen, of course, through my own eyes. I continue to hold feelings of warmth and affection for all those in AMREF, the Flying Doctors Service, and for those I met over our two and a half-year period in Africa.

Finally, I owe, as most writers do, an enormous debt to my wife, Krystyne, who not only features as an impressive person in this book, but has provided both the patience and the support to ensure that it was written.

Scott Griffin

Toronto