Below is a letter from first time host father Brad after saying goodbye to his family’s short-term exchange student.
Wow, what a decision to take in a Japanese student. We were just out enjoying Kent Cornucopia Day and for some reason we stopped at your booth and signed up.
My wife and I walked away from your booth thinking what did we just do?
[CHI exchange student] Risa was the perfect match for our family. I remember hearing that the last day is hard but I didn’t believe it until today.
I feel like a parent that just lost a child, I’m sitting at my desk at work
fighting back tears just thinking about her. One month was simply not long
enough time to spend with these students.
Thank you for the opportunity. I know we’ll stay in contact with Risa through
Facebook, emails and letters. Hopefully, we’ll be able to take a trip to Japan
as well.
Thank you,
Brad and Family