After reading Martin’s letter about his mother’s trials with malaria, Caitlin considers sending aspirin and malaria medication to Martin’s family. When she asks about sending malaria medication in the mail, her parents warn her that sending medication is illegal. However, Caitlin proceeds ahead anyway. She receives old malaria medication from her grandmother, who was prescribed it for leg cramps. Caitlin includes this medication along with bottles of Tylenol in her next care package to Martin’s family.

Meanwhile, Caitlin has a change of heart regarding pursuing a career in technical education after being turned away from woodshop for wearing open-toed shoes. At a guidance counselor’s office, her counselor tells her that she will have to wear close-toed shoes if she decides to pursue a career in technical education. Caitlin decides that wearing open-toed shoes is more important and rethinks her interest in technical education.

Several days later, the September 11 terrorist attacks take place at the Twin Towers and the Pentagon. Caitlin receives the news at school. Caitlin’s older brother, Richie, arrives in the middle of the day in a panic, telling her that she has to leave with him immediately. There is news of another attack in Pennsylvania and their mother has advised them to head home, where it may be safer.