Chris Bertelson had a remarkable experience; one that he was kind to share with the Rotary Club of West Polk County. Many are aware that Rotary International has had a long-term goal, along with several strategic partners (notably the Gates Foundation) of eliminating Polio from the world.
As a proud Rotarian, Chris participated in a wide array and variety of events. He made a connection at a Rotary International convention with a gentleman from a Rotary Club in Agra, India. That gentleman’s name is Raul Wadwa, President of the Agra Rotary Club. He also happens to own a travel agency and was organizing opportunities for Rotarians to travel to India to assist in their vaccination efforts. It wasn’t long before Chris and his wife decided this was an opportunity they wanted to take advantage of, so they did.
The Bertelson’s traveled to India in 2022. They traveled to the village outside of Agra. Along with other Rotarians from around the world, they helped to administer Polio vaccinations to children under five years of age in the community. It was an experience of a lifetime. Chris shared many pictures of his interactions in India. We saw many smiling faces and even some dancing.
While the purpose of the trip was to advance Rotary’s efforts to keep the people of India safe from the ravages of Polio, Rotary trips often also include an opportunity for some fun. While work was done, the Rotarians were also able to experience India from a tourist’s point of view as well. Most notably was a visit to the infamous Taj Mahal, located in Agra, Uttar Prades, India.
The Rotary Foundation has been a major contributor to the polio eradication effort in India, providing financial and technical support for the program. Rotary clubs have also played a key role in raising awareness about polio and the importance of vaccination.
The polio eradication effort in India has been highly successful. In 2014, India was declared polio-free after three years without a reported case of wild polio virus. The Rotary Foundation and its partners continue to work to maintain India's polio-free status through ongoing surveillance and vaccination efforts.
We were grateful to hear of Chris’ experience and hope that his story will act as an encouraging word for other current and future Rotarians as we strive to do good in our communities and our world.