Photo by Tim Albertson
Islander Enjoys Tropical Paradise By Ruth Gutierrez The island life is a wonderful experience: tropical She considers it a privilege to have been born into a weather, friendly people, drives around the beach - Christian family. " M y mother is the stable one, and she was very strict on us," Denise said. what more can one ask for? She is also very thankful for the spiritual impact Denise Braithwaite w a s born in the Turks-Caicos Islands in 1970. This country includes five islands and Liberty has m a d e on her life. "Attending chapel, going is located approximately 190 miles southeast of the to Bible studies and m y peers have really been an United States. It is predominantly a black society, and encouragement to me." Denise has a bright future ahead of her, and there's the people are very casual in their dress. A Regatta D a y is one of the special celebrations that no stopping her now. Turk-Caicos Islanders mark on their calendars. The Regatta lasts three days and includes events such as goat racing, s w i m m i n g and a beauty contest. "I enjoy spending time together with m y friends at these special events," Denise said. "I also like going to the beach and driving nearby there at night. I miss the clear blue water and the white sand." Denise, however wanted a better education at a Christian university R A duties, together with her pre-med major, have kept Denise's schedule very busy. She, however, is determined not to give up. Her goal is to become an obstetrician. This would m a k e her one of the few female doctors in her country. " W o m e n doctors are rare on the island," she said. Compared to the Turks-Caicos Islands, moving to Lynchburg gave her somewhat of a culture shock and provided her with a big adjustment. "The style of living is very different," she said. "The pace is m u c h faster, and the weather is colder." Denise is the oldest of seven children and does not mind taking m u c h of the responsibility. "I like it," she said. "They look u p to m e . I'm kind of the one w h o tests the water first." Photo by Tim Albertson
