Posted on February 14, 2001 at 8:15 a.m.

WHO:

Donna Whitlock, R.N., nursing supervisor, radiology

WHAT:

Whitlock will sojourn to Gujarat, India, Wednesday, February 28. She will take donated medical supplies, equipment and monetary donations with her to India. She will spend her time helping to treat the wounded and search for the deceased.

THE QUAKE:

On January 26 a powerful earthquake rocked Bhuj, India, and surrounding towns, leaving 18,000 confirmed dead. The estimated death toll is expected to climb as high as 30,000. An estimated 250,000 are without shelter.

THE QUEST:

Earlier this month, Whitlock wrote to Indian officials explaining that she was a registered nurse and interested in helping. Much to her surprise, she received a letter of acceptance the following week from Babu Lal Sharma with the Ghandi Peace Foundation. A friend has donated 80,000 frequent flyer miles for her flight.

THE GOODS:

Earthquake victims and support teams need tents, flashlights, blankets, orthopedic supplies, gloves, bandages, crutches and wheelchairs and food items such as dry formula, canned food and water. Since it may be costly to take too many supplies, financial contributions will also be taken. Whitlock says others are welcome to join her, provided they pay their own airfare. Items can be dropped off at New Hope Baptist Church in Bessemer, (205) 428-6842, or call Whitlock for information or other arrangements, (205) 934-0153.

THE NURSE:

Whitlock began taking missions abroad in 1995 when she traveled with a medical team from Pittsburgh to Nigeria. After several trips, she decided to make missionary work her life's mission and began taking classes at the Birmingham Theological Seminary. She is working toward receiving her master's degree in foreign missions. This past year, she and her daughters began an inner-city dance ministry for children in Bessemer.

THE QUIRK:

While in India, Whitlock will celebrate her 45th birthday.