Erik
8th Grade

Measles, I haven't heard much about this disease but I think everyone in Africa has heard of it and many other diseases. That makes me think I'm very lucky to live in the United States. My parents come from Mexico and this country doesn't give much medical attention to kids, but I know its worse in Africa. This disease really does go to my heart because it's taking children's lives.

Even though I don't now these adults and children I still feel bad for them. The reason is because I always put myself in other people's situations, and I'll know what they're going through. I would say what if it was my brother or sister with this disease. By doing this, I'll understand what they're going through. I'm very sentimental. I mean, I felt sad when Dale Earnhart died in a car crash in the Daytona 500 on the last lap, I almost cried.

If I was chosen to go to Africa, the first thing I would do is cheer the kids up and help them forget about their illness. I know if I had this illness, I would rather have fun than think about my disease. I know these vaccinations are more important to them than having a $300 Playstation 2, because these vaccinations that just cost under a $1 can save their lives. I think if we can help this disease leave Africa, the great continent will become just as good as the U.S. By not having these diseases, every child will now have a chance to have a great future. When my parents got their vaccinations and reduced their chances of getting diseases, they opened up their chances of having a great future. So they came to America and so far they've had a good life. I want the kids in Africa to have these opportunities too.

If I could put vaccinations in any candy, I would put it in gum because it's long lasting. If I were a child in Africa I would remember this great candy forever. The best thing would be that it would not be a painful shot, but a joyful snack.

About Erik

I have a mom, dad, a brother, and a sister. Even though many kids don't like their younger brothers and sisters, I'm not like that. I love them and since I'm the oldest, I have to teach them to do well in everything. I like that my younger brother and sister look up to me, so if I go to Africa they're going to want to do something like that too. My family is the most important thing in my life. The best thing about life is basketball. When I'm bored I play basketball and suddenly I'm not bored. When I'm mad all I need to do is dunk the ball as hard as I can and it'll take the pain away. I think one day; I'll make it in the NBA because I'm a real good player. Think of me as Jason Kidd that can dunk. Some of my friends say I have a little bit of blackness in me because I'm so good. But I'm Mexican and one day I wish that I could become the first Mexican basketball player to win the MVP and Championship in the NBA. I also want to be the first Mexican to make it to the Hall of Fame. If basketball doesn't work out, I plan to become an architect. The best thing about me is that I'm a good friend. I think this would help me out if I go to Africa. The first thing I would do with the kids would be to become their friends and make them feel good.