From Story Cottage to The Gambia: Sarah talks on Caregiving with Purpose
Table of Contents
- What makes Sarah ready for 15 months in Gambia?
- How does she plan to use her experience?
- Why is Africa personally meaningful to her?
- What is Sarah’s caregiving philosophy?
- What advice does she have for future caregivers?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Article Summary
Sarah Johns discusses her upcoming 15-month Peace Corps service in rural Gambia, her long-term passion for caregiving, and the deep fulfillment she finds in helping others. Her story blends purpose, adaptability, and selfless service.
What makes Sarah ready for 15 months in Gambia?
Sarah shares that while her 15-month Peace Corps commitment will be tough, she feels mentally prepared. She embraces the idea of living in a rural village without modern conveniences and sees the challenge as part of the reward.
How does she plan to use her experience?
Post-service, Sarah wants to continue her nursing degree and hopes to return to Africa to serve on the Mercy Ship. She is open to continuing her impact abroad, drawn to mission-driven medical service along the African coast.
Why is Africa personally meaningful to her?
Sarah explains that Africa has always been in her heart. Her trip to Zambia solidified her connection to the continent. It wasn’t just travel—it was purpose fulfilled. Being there felt natural and deeply rewarding.
What is Sarah’s caregiving philosophy?
For Sarah, caregiving is rooted in love, patience, and attentiveness. It’s about showing up for someone else, even in the smallest ways. Helping someone brush their teeth or shower might seem routine—but it can be transformative for the person receiving care.
What advice does she have for future caregivers?
She encourages those who feel even a hint of interest in caregiving to give it a try. Curiosity can grow into purpose. The most important qualities? Patience, love, and genuine attentiveness. Caregiving is about giving yourself to someone else—because they need you.
“Caregiving is about being fully present, even in the quiet moments. Sometimes the smallest acts - a gentle hand, a smile, a conversation - matter most.”
— Sarah Johns
Frequently Asked Questions
She’s serving a 15-month Peace Corps assignment in a rural Gambian village.
She plans to finish her nursing degree and possibly return to Africa to work on the Mercy Ship.
Patience, love, attentiveness, and the ability to be fully present with others.
