Carol Toner is a retired teacher in Downpatrick, Ireland. She did not know Sr. Clare personally, but the discovery of the life of Sr. Clare has led her to totally change her priorities in life. Carol herself tells us about this change in her email on February 6th 2017.

The first time that I heard of Sr Clare was shortly after the devastating earthquake in Ecuador on April 16th 2016. Her tragic death and that of her students had a deep impact on me. I googled her name and that of her order. The more I read, I was so inspired by her generous acceptance of Christ’s invitation to follow him.

The following month I took part in the Camino walk. Sr. Clare’s image was with me when I prayed. I felt her ask "Carol what are you doing with your life for Christ?" What an amazing question! It was during Mass on my final day in Santiago that I decided to help continue her work in Ecuador by raising money to help rebuild the school where she lost her life.

So from August 19th to September 30th I will be joined at different stages by family and friends. Several schools in my hometown of Downpatrick are supporting by sponsored walks, raffles, etc.

I never met Sr. Clare but, as a teacher myself, I feel a strong connection with her. She has totally changed my priorities in life. Because of her example, when Our Lord asks me "What did you do with your life?" I can say, “I spent it loving YOU.”