It is good to be home. Strangely the thing that is really hard for me to get use to, is the cold. The six weeks I was away only added up to about 4 days of cool weather. It was hot in Lilongwe and hot in Nairobi. I had a 6 hour layover in Nairobi. They do not have air conditioning in the airport. I didn't take a jacket for the plane because I have been so hot. When I heard it snowed in Denver, I still wasn't too concerned till I hit Amsterdam and felt the cold. I e-mailed Kathy to throw in a jacket for the ride home. The trip home was around 36 hours, that does not include the four hour drive from Mzuzu to Lilongwe that we did on Friday. As we were driving down I was thankful we didn't do the drive the same day we were to leave. The trip home would have been over 40 hours of travel.
The ride down from Mzuzu had some interesting moments. The roasted mice vendors were out, some of the MMs wanted to take pictures so we stopped. They waved a little money at them to compensate for letting their picture be taken. I didn't get a picture, it is pretty gross. The mouse vendor probably made more money having his picture taken then selling roasted mice.
Then there were the funny signs ....
DEAD SLOW
ENERGY COFFINS 24 hours
HOPEFUL SHOPPING
We laugh at the way they say things but they think we are pretty weird too.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
It's All a Blur
The week is a blur. All told we probably saw over 1300 people. I have very mixed emotions about the clinic. It all seemed so hectic. As I said it lacked organization and efforts to organize seem to lead to some new problem. The very sweet people at the registration desk would add people without permission, the gatekeeper was letting people in and they were being registered. You would say stop and they kept sending people to be triaged. I need to gather my thoughts. The volunteers were wonderful people but they lacked experience and there just weren't enough people to provide the direction they needed.
I have a hard time understanding why anyone would wait in line and sit in the sun all day because they have headaches or joint pain. Then I remembered the year in the US when everyone was panicked about no flu vaccine only to see all the old people standing out in the cold to get flu vaccine. It makes no sense, but then you wonder about the "free" health care they have here. As I understand it was better before China came in with money.
We did see some very sick people. The thing that is hardest to see is the beautiful faces of the babies knowing what a sad life lies before them. Many of the children we saw were undernourished and small for their age. People in their 60s looked like they were in their 90s. Then their were some elderly people who were real characters and made you laugh. The people were grateful that we saw them, never mind that it felt like an assembly line. There were people that came from long distances. There was a man who walked for 5 hours. He was delighted that we had glasses that we could give him. There were many cases of HIV and malaria.
It's hard to believe that the clinic is over. We enjoyed wonderful dinners with the ROS staff. They are wonderful caring people that we will leave behind to carrying on.
I can hardly believe I will have been away from home for 6 weeks. I am not sure what home even feels like anymore. I just want a hot shower, to soak in a warm bath, clean up. They are sending us home with Malaria medicine.
Tomorrow we head for Lilongwe and will spend the night. Saturday, 2 of us leave for home, 2 for a Safari and 1 to Nairobi, Elaine will have a short respite before heading home to California.
Will I do this again? Probably.
I have a hard time understanding why anyone would wait in line and sit in the sun all day because they have headaches or joint pain. Then I remembered the year in the US when everyone was panicked about no flu vaccine only to see all the old people standing out in the cold to get flu vaccine. It makes no sense, but then you wonder about the "free" health care they have here. As I understand it was better before China came in with money.
We did see some very sick people. The thing that is hardest to see is the beautiful faces of the babies knowing what a sad life lies before them. Many of the children we saw were undernourished and small for their age. People in their 60s looked like they were in their 90s. Then their were some elderly people who were real characters and made you laugh. The people were grateful that we saw them, never mind that it felt like an assembly line. There were people that came from long distances. There was a man who walked for 5 hours. He was delighted that we had glasses that we could give him. There were many cases of HIV and malaria.
It's hard to believe that the clinic is over. We enjoyed wonderful dinners with the ROS staff. They are wonderful caring people that we will leave behind to carrying on.
I can hardly believe I will have been away from home for 6 weeks. I am not sure what home even feels like anymore. I just want a hot shower, to soak in a warm bath, clean up. They are sending us home with Malaria medicine.
Tomorrow we head for Lilongwe and will spend the night. Saturday, 2 of us leave for home, 2 for a Safari and 1 to Nairobi, Elaine will have a short respite before heading home to California.
Will I do this again? Probably.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Another Day
I am losing track of the numbers of people we have seen. It seems endless here. This is not the most organized clinic I've been to, in fact it lacks organization more than anything else. Today the numbers edged into the 150s. Unfortunately, we lack people with the know how to locate patients that have been here before so there is little or no continuity in the care from previous clinics. The registration line is confusing at best. We have excellent translators but not enough of them. One of the nurses has had the role of lab technician, which she is managing very well. She just recently retired so her puncture skills are good. The whole clinic seems overwhelming at times.
One big problem is that the people are hard to screen as they are all sick. We have seen many small babies, then on the other end of the spectrum the really old. How do you say no to a sick baby or an old person who has walked many miles or been waiting from the wee hours of the morning? In the morning there must have been close to 300 people at the gate.
Only 3 days left. I am still wondering how we made it through friday. I am tired.
One big problem is that the people are hard to screen as they are all sick. We have seen many small babies, then on the other end of the spectrum the really old. How do you say no to a sick baby or an old person who has walked many miles or been waiting from the wee hours of the morning? In the morning there must have been close to 300 people at the gate.
Only 3 days left. I am still wondering how we made it through friday. I am tired.
Lake Malawi
Saturday, A beautiful trip to Lake Malawi for lunch. Lake Malawi is about 1 1/2 hours away. It is a deep lake about half the size of Lake Michigan. The water is blue with white sand. It is in the middle of nowhere, a two lane paved road with lots of people walking along it. We passed rubber trees on the way. It was warm at the lake and I did roll up my slacks and wade in the water. We had a nice lunch with the ROS couple, Paul and Aileen, who drove us up. We stopped on the way up to shop at the wood carvers which are about a 1/2 hour drive before the lake. The woodwork is beautiful and we had to barter a price. I could have bought a lot if I would have let myself go wild. I hate to think how much this stuff would be sold for in the US. I 'm guessing some business person gives them less than half of what we pay and charges 3 times as much if not more. What is neat is that it is carved here not in China.
Sunday
A quiet day after church, brunch and some shopping at the pottery shop. Once again beautiful pottery made in Malawi.
Sunday
A quiet day after church, brunch and some shopping at the pottery shop. Once again beautiful pottery made in Malawi.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
A Day in the Life of a Malawi Medical Clinic
What a Day! We saw 193 patients today due to a miscommunication. The numbered tickets weren't confiscated so those thinking they were doing good added over 80 patients without the proper channels.
A lunch I heard we were up 150 patients, thinking we were almost finished triaging I found out we were up to 188.
To add to the already bludgeoning number a small boy with a temp of 104 showed up at the gate. Then the clinic coordinator asked me to check a women sitting at the gate. She had walked for 3 1/2 hours with a friend, stopping along the way to rest. She had a temperature of 102.5. The unfortunate diagnoses was that she was HIV positive, with a urinary tract infection, and malaria. There was no way we could ask those to return on Monday, nor was there any way we could change what already had been done.
It is not unusual to add people to the initial number of given tickets, some are reserved for the sick that show up at the gate. The late comers are to be screened instead of just being let in. We operate on a first come first served basis, many are at the gate by 6 am and already have waited a long time to be seen. We have a long line of people waiting for us to open the gate and give them that precious number.
This is a day I will not forget. It marks the highest number of patients see in one day. Interestingly, the number of patients seen in the Rafiki Medical clinics since about 2003 tops 44,000. We have already seen over 600 here and we have 4 more days to go. We start at 7:00 and try to end by 4:30 so our volunteers do not have to walk home in the dark. There is a bus that gets them to the clinic from Mzuzu, but they walk to the bus. Today, we managed to finish about 5:30.
The day was filled with sick individuals. Right before lunch a women came in carrying an 8 years old girl on her back. At first I thought it was a mentally disabled child. The child had a temperature of 103 . She had a ruptured appendix. She was rushed to a nearby hospital. Another acutely ill women with Aids was sent to the hospital. There were 3 near term pregnant women that showed up, one was immediately send on to the hospital. We are not in the business of delivering babies. There was an 5 year old orphan that was brought by his 8 year old brother who was carrying a 3 year old sibling. The grandmother was also with them. They are being screened for possible children for Rafiki.
What is really hard here is screening the really sick from those who are not so sick. They all look sick.
The eyes are sad, the children fearful. It is hard to get them to smile. They just watch you with those big sad eyes. So many of the people have vision problems. We fortunately came with a lot of reading glasses.
The reality of the day hit when we sat down for dinner. We were all very tired. We can only believe that what we saw as a mistake was God's providence for many of the people. Always faithful, God carried us through a tough day.
And ....... the moon was full!!!
A lunch I heard we were up 150 patients, thinking we were almost finished triaging I found out we were up to 188.
To add to the already bludgeoning number a small boy with a temp of 104 showed up at the gate. Then the clinic coordinator asked me to check a women sitting at the gate. She had walked for 3 1/2 hours with a friend, stopping along the way to rest. She had a temperature of 102.5. The unfortunate diagnoses was that she was HIV positive, with a urinary tract infection, and malaria. There was no way we could ask those to return on Monday, nor was there any way we could change what already had been done.
It is not unusual to add people to the initial number of given tickets, some are reserved for the sick that show up at the gate. The late comers are to be screened instead of just being let in. We operate on a first come first served basis, many are at the gate by 6 am and already have waited a long time to be seen. We have a long line of people waiting for us to open the gate and give them that precious number.
This is a day I will not forget. It marks the highest number of patients see in one day. Interestingly, the number of patients seen in the Rafiki Medical clinics since about 2003 tops 44,000. We have already seen over 600 here and we have 4 more days to go. We start at 7:00 and try to end by 4:30 so our volunteers do not have to walk home in the dark. There is a bus that gets them to the clinic from Mzuzu, but they walk to the bus. Today, we managed to finish about 5:30.
The day was filled with sick individuals. Right before lunch a women came in carrying an 8 years old girl on her back. At first I thought it was a mentally disabled child. The child had a temperature of 103 . She had a ruptured appendix. She was rushed to a nearby hospital. Another acutely ill women with Aids was sent to the hospital. There were 3 near term pregnant women that showed up, one was immediately send on to the hospital. We are not in the business of delivering babies. There was an 5 year old orphan that was brought by his 8 year old brother who was carrying a 3 year old sibling. The grandmother was also with them. They are being screened for possible children for Rafiki.
What is really hard here is screening the really sick from those who are not so sick. They all look sick.
The eyes are sad, the children fearful. It is hard to get them to smile. They just watch you with those big sad eyes. So many of the people have vision problems. We fortunately came with a lot of reading glasses.
The reality of the day hit when we sat down for dinner. We were all very tired. We can only believe that what we saw as a mistake was God's providence for many of the people. Always faithful, God carried us through a tough day.
And ....... the moon was full!!!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
3 Days Down, 5 to Go
The countdown begins. In a week and a half I will be back home. We have had 3 busy clinic days. So far we have seen just under 400 patients. This clinic is really different. One of my RNs was pulled to do lab so I am busy screening patients and trying to triage them also, fortunately there is help to keep the flow going. The translators are good, for a short while I did not have one so the one we had handled the translation for 2 nurses. There are a fair number of people here that speak good English.
What was good about the translations was they stuck to translating instead of having a long conversation with a patient then you got a short answer and also had to clarify what was being said then find out that you were totally off tract. We were kept very busy because we had 3 doctors that could see any of the patients. Most of the children were seen by Elaine and the other 2 providers saw most of the adults. This was definitely a benefit in moving the clinic forward.
The people here are really poor. We saw a lot of sick babies and kids, rashes, hypertension, coughs and fevers and even some typhoid fever.
Tuesday, it was warm, the past 2 mornings have been very cool. In the 4 plus weeks here I have regretted carrying heavier clothing. I needed them these past 2 days. Yesterday it rained really hard for about 10 minutes. They had a tent covering for the people waiting in the courtyard. It really changes one's perspective about waiting when you have been at a Medical Clinic here. We much to be thankful for.
The clinic here is about a mile from the guest house. We have been getting a ride to and from the clinic, yesterday we walked back along the village perimeter. We met the witch doctor, some kids demanding money. There was a fence between us and them. It is interesting to see kids and people come in who have been at the witch doctor, black strings tied around there wrists and ankles, or their waists.
We have been well taken care of here each evening we have been invited to dinner at one of the ROS homes. We have lunch at the dining hall, I was grateful that they decided to let us serve ourselves , they had been serving us too much. When you see under nourished people you do not want to waste food In other clinics they would serve African portions or mzungo (white person) portions. Which meant that they served larger portions to the national volunteers.
I am at a loss for words to express the emotions I feel being here. I know it will take me a long time to unpack this trip.
On a good note, Ethiopia got their first 2 children.
On a light note, one of the sights as we drove to the village on Sunday afternoon, was people selling roasted mice on a stick.
Good day and good night.
What was good about the translations was they stuck to translating instead of having a long conversation with a patient then you got a short answer and also had to clarify what was being said then find out that you were totally off tract. We were kept very busy because we had 3 doctors that could see any of the patients. Most of the children were seen by Elaine and the other 2 providers saw most of the adults. This was definitely a benefit in moving the clinic forward.
The people here are really poor. We saw a lot of sick babies and kids, rashes, hypertension, coughs and fevers and even some typhoid fever.
Tuesday, it was warm, the past 2 mornings have been very cool. In the 4 plus weeks here I have regretted carrying heavier clothing. I needed them these past 2 days. Yesterday it rained really hard for about 10 minutes. They had a tent covering for the people waiting in the courtyard. It really changes one's perspective about waiting when you have been at a Medical Clinic here. We much to be thankful for.
The clinic here is about a mile from the guest house. We have been getting a ride to and from the clinic, yesterday we walked back along the village perimeter. We met the witch doctor, some kids demanding money. There was a fence between us and them. It is interesting to see kids and people come in who have been at the witch doctor, black strings tied around there wrists and ankles, or their waists.
We have been well taken care of here each evening we have been invited to dinner at one of the ROS homes. We have lunch at the dining hall, I was grateful that they decided to let us serve ourselves , they had been serving us too much. When you see under nourished people you do not want to waste food In other clinics they would serve African portions or mzungo (white person) portions. Which meant that they served larger portions to the national volunteers.
I am at a loss for words to express the emotions I feel being here. I know it will take me a long time to unpack this trip.
On a good note, Ethiopia got their first 2 children.
On a light note, one of the sights as we drove to the village on Sunday afternoon, was people selling roasted mice on a stick.
Good day and good night.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Mzuzu, Malawi
Sunday, September 27th was spent traveling from the Rafiki Village outside Chongwe, Zambia to the village in Mzuzu, Malawi. Our flight between Lusaka and Lilongwe was only an hour, but our total trip was about 9 hours. The rest of the team except for one person coming out of Seattle were on the same flight as we were except we didn't know who they were. Trying to get our luggage was no easy task. One of our bags was in the last group to be unloaded. Elaine and I could hardly wait to be done with the luggage. We had transported medical supplies to Tanzania, Ethiopia, Zambia and our final destination Malawi. The supplies had been brought in by the MM's that were at the Nairobi Clinic. Elaine and I plan on shopping in Malawi. Can't take home empty bags!
We had a beautiful drive from Lilongwe to the Village. It was 4 hours but on good roads with light traffic. We are in the mountains. The sunset was stunning. We then were welcomed by the ROS at dinner. Elaine and I were not anywhere near the exhausted group that came in. It is a very long flight from the US to Malawi. I will get to experience on the way home. I know I will be exhausted. I think it will take almost 2 days of travel including to and from airports.
This Village is beautiful and Mzuzu is much better than I expected as Malawi is a poor country.
Today was a clinic preparation day and tomorrow I work with one of the Nationals, she is the clinic coordinator and I will be making sure the patient flow is on target and by getting the right patients to the right doctor. Much better than having to do the whole coordination job.
It's time for a shower and to bed I go. Tomorrow will be a big day.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Another Day In Zambia
Yesterday we saw about 20 patients, mostly the children for physicals, some young adults and some employees. In the Afternoon we went into Lusaka to get medicines for the Village. One of the little children had dislocated his elbow so he was along to see the doctor and to have his cast removed. He is 5 years old, in kindergarden and can print all the names of the children in his cottage and other names too. His name is Happy and is a very bright child. It was a long tiring trip into Lusaka. The last 17 kilometers is a rough dirt road.
It never ceases to amaze me that there are so many people out at night, walking along the dirt roads. Apparently by midnight the road is packed with people and vehicles, trucks, bicycles. These are dark roads and you wonder how they can even see to get around. I wonder what they even do. It is scary driving after dark.
We were fortunate to have electricity all day yesterday. On Thursday we lost the electricity early and it didn't come back on till about 7 pm. We were on a generator for about an hour when it first got dark. It is not uncommon in Africa to be without electricity. Something to be thankful for in America, being here leaves me with a lot of things to be thankful for. It sometimes is hard to comprehend how so many people can live in these conditions. Then I get to come home and hear people complain that they don't have this or that. The sad part of why things don't improve is mainly government corruption. This is a good example of government taking care of themselves but have little regard to how it affects the people as a whole.
Enough of my ramblings, be thankful for all the blessings we have in America.
It never ceases to amaze me that there are so many people out at night, walking along the dirt roads. Apparently by midnight the road is packed with people and vehicles, trucks, bicycles. These are dark roads and you wonder how they can even see to get around. I wonder what they even do. It is scary driving after dark.
We were fortunate to have electricity all day yesterday. On Thursday we lost the electricity early and it didn't come back on till about 7 pm. We were on a generator for about an hour when it first got dark. It is not uncommon in Africa to be without electricity. Something to be thankful for in America, being here leaves me with a lot of things to be thankful for. It sometimes is hard to comprehend how so many people can live in these conditions. Then I get to come home and hear people complain that they don't have this or that. The sad part of why things don't improve is mainly government corruption. This is a good example of government taking care of themselves but have little regard to how it affects the people as a whole.
Enough of my ramblings, be thankful for all the blessings we have in America.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Zambia
We arrived in Zambia yesterday afternoon. Lusaka is a very modern city. The most upscale African city I have been in. Once in the countryside it looks very Africa, family villages of thatched huts. Most of the people are subsistent farmers. The village is about 45 minutes from Lusaka. The road to the village is dirt road and rough, but in city the roads are good and there is some sanity in the driving.
The village is very nice, green roofs instead of the red. The guest house is the nicest I have stayed in. We are very comfortable. Weather wise it is hot and muggy. There are some rather large, pesky flies here, but we do have a resident gecko.
Today we saw 35 children, mamas and 1 employee. It was a full day. Tomorrow we will see more children and some of the students from the community and some employees. Elaine gets the biggest brunt of the work, I try to help however I can. Right now we are a 3 person clinic.
The children are so beautiful and so well behaved. The books in the clinic were a big help keeping the children amused while they waited to see Dr. Elaine. Every time you asked a question they say, "Yes, Please." They are shy for the most part, but some were very outgoing. They have an adorable little girl here, about 2 years of age who has a bad rash in her scalp. In order to keep those pesky flies off her they found a cute hat. There is no other word but adorable. I think she is the cutest African child I have seen.
There is a set of identical twins here also. The Child care director asked the mama how she could tell the difference. The mama said because one is black. One was darker skinned but to our eyes we would not so readily see the difference.
The last 2 nights we had dinner with the ROS. these are really special people, not only here but in every village.
I have really been blessed to go to all these different villages.
The village is very nice, green roofs instead of the red. The guest house is the nicest I have stayed in. We are very comfortable. Weather wise it is hot and muggy. There are some rather large, pesky flies here, but we do have a resident gecko.
Today we saw 35 children, mamas and 1 employee. It was a full day. Tomorrow we will see more children and some of the students from the community and some employees. Elaine gets the biggest brunt of the work, I try to help however I can. Right now we are a 3 person clinic.
The children are so beautiful and so well behaved. The books in the clinic were a big help keeping the children amused while they waited to see Dr. Elaine. Every time you asked a question they say, "Yes, Please." They are shy for the most part, but some were very outgoing. They have an adorable little girl here, about 2 years of age who has a bad rash in her scalp. In order to keep those pesky flies off her they found a cute hat. There is no other word but adorable. I think she is the cutest African child I have seen.
There is a set of identical twins here also. The Child care director asked the mama how she could tell the difference. The mama said because one is black. One was darker skinned but to our eyes we would not so readily see the difference.
The last 2 nights we had dinner with the ROS. these are really special people, not only here but in every village.
I have really been blessed to go to all these different villages.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
ETHIOPIA
Wednesday afternoon, September 16th, Elaine, Yeen - Lan and I left for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I was very surprised to find a very modern, efficient airport. There was even a jet way, most times we have walk down stairs and up to the plane or vice versa. The driver is on the left side of the car rather than the right. We stayed at a nice hotel though from the outside it looked rather questionable.
After a night's rest, breakfast and some shopping we were picked up by Dan, the village director, from the Rafiki Village for some shopping before leaving for Mojo where the village is located. Shopping was great and Dan knew where to take us and how to help us with the currency. It was inexpensive and I got some really good buys.
Walking through the streets is interesting, a lot of people trying to sell you something. It was pretty funny when someone tried to sell me a live chicken.
In Ethiopia for 3 days I was 7 years younger. They had just celebrated the New Year. It is 2002 in Ethiopia. They also are celebrating Ramadan in Ethiopia and Kenya. Monday is a holiday here.
The Village we visited still doesn't have any children, other than the 6 children of the ROS. They have 3 very young, wonderful women training to be Mamas. The first 2 children are expected to be brought in next week if the final papers can be signed. A little boy and a girl were brought in for screening on Thursday. The little boy would have stayed, he cried when they had to take him to where he was staying. The little girl was with her elderly grandmother and was much more reserved. Hopefully, they will pass the screening and be in first group of long awaited children. The grandmother will be left with the comforting feeling that she brought her child to a good place. These children are orphaned and come from very poor situations. No one accompanied the little boy and it was evident that the little girl's grandmother was very poor and could not take care of her grandchild. The village is set in a very beautiful, peaceful setting. Soon the voices and songs of the little children will echo through the Village
I spent most of thursday organizing a pharmacy from all the supplies we brought in, Elaine went into town for more medications which I inventoried Friday morning. Elaine saw several workers while I finished organizing, then did a quick class on emergency care for the mamas and staff. Then we all went for lunch with the 2 ROS families before heading back to Addis Ababa, did some shopping and had dinner before retiring for the night. We had quite a time ordering our dinner. The English spoken here is not as easy to understand as in some countries. This is also a challenge for the ROS as they work to set up the village. The mama's here are learning to speak English. English is taught in the schools but not spoken in the classroom.
We left for the airport around 7:30 am. We were up graded to first class on the airline. We had to get a sticker for boarding order and were standing near the desk when an attendant asked for our boarding pass and upgraded us. We were originally in the back of the plane. As Yeen - Lan says, "We are in His Majesty's service."
Ethiopia's country side is beautiful. It is just coming to the end of the rainy season so everything was very green. We even has some rain showers. Here in Kenya it is very, very dry. Ethiopia is like being in 2 cultures at the same time, a country struggling out of the past into the future. They now have a democratic government out of what was a communist regime, but the remanent of the past government still is there.
I am truly blessed. This was a wonderful experience. Would you believe that we had lunch in a restaurant owned and run by 2 men, one from Bellevue, Washington and another from Texas? The food was excellent.
After a night's rest, breakfast and some shopping we were picked up by Dan, the village director, from the Rafiki Village for some shopping before leaving for Mojo where the village is located. Shopping was great and Dan knew where to take us and how to help us with the currency. It was inexpensive and I got some really good buys.
Walking through the streets is interesting, a lot of people trying to sell you something. It was pretty funny when someone tried to sell me a live chicken.
In Ethiopia for 3 days I was 7 years younger. They had just celebrated the New Year. It is 2002 in Ethiopia. They also are celebrating Ramadan in Ethiopia and Kenya. Monday is a holiday here.
The Village we visited still doesn't have any children, other than the 6 children of the ROS. They have 3 very young, wonderful women training to be Mamas. The first 2 children are expected to be brought in next week if the final papers can be signed. A little boy and a girl were brought in for screening on Thursday. The little boy would have stayed, he cried when they had to take him to where he was staying. The little girl was with her elderly grandmother and was much more reserved. Hopefully, they will pass the screening and be in first group of long awaited children. The grandmother will be left with the comforting feeling that she brought her child to a good place. These children are orphaned and come from very poor situations. No one accompanied the little boy and it was evident that the little girl's grandmother was very poor and could not take care of her grandchild. The village is set in a very beautiful, peaceful setting. Soon the voices and songs of the little children will echo through the Village
I spent most of thursday organizing a pharmacy from all the supplies we brought in, Elaine went into town for more medications which I inventoried Friday morning. Elaine saw several workers while I finished organizing, then did a quick class on emergency care for the mamas and staff. Then we all went for lunch with the 2 ROS families before heading back to Addis Ababa, did some shopping and had dinner before retiring for the night. We had quite a time ordering our dinner. The English spoken here is not as easy to understand as in some countries. This is also a challenge for the ROS as they work to set up the village. The mama's here are learning to speak English. English is taught in the schools but not spoken in the classroom.
We left for the airport around 7:30 am. We were up graded to first class on the airline. We had to get a sticker for boarding order and were standing near the desk when an attendant asked for our boarding pass and upgraded us. We were originally in the back of the plane. As Yeen - Lan says, "We are in His Majesty's service."
Ethiopia's country side is beautiful. It is just coming to the end of the rainy season so everything was very green. We even has some rain showers. Here in Kenya it is very, very dry. Ethiopia is like being in 2 cultures at the same time, a country struggling out of the past into the future. They now have a democratic government out of what was a communist regime, but the remanent of the past government still is there.
I am truly blessed. This was a wonderful experience. Would you believe that we had lunch in a restaurant owned and run by 2 men, one from Bellevue, Washington and another from Texas? The food was excellent.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Safari
We completed 20th Rakiki - Kenya Clinic on thursday. In all it was a successful clinic in which things went very smoothly. The majority of the people we saw seemed more affected by the drought in that their problems were related to intestinal parasites.
I did get my standard Nairobi cold. I am finally feeling better. My weekend Safari to Tanzania was great except it really flared up a bunch of allergies with the cold.
Friday morning we left at 7 am for the airport. The traffic was horrendous. At the airport they were having trouble checking us in. Kenyan Airways supervisors was trying to resolve the problem. In Africa it's "no worry". We were concerned they would close the boarding gates before we got there. The plane was over an hour late. Tanzania is a hop, skip and a jump, only an hour flight. They even served refreshments, and cashew nuts ( not a skimpy bag either).
There is a strong wind outside as I write this, maybe we will get rain.
Anyway on the way we did get to see Mount Kilimanjaro, which means a hill with snow on top. I had hoped to see the mountain on the way back but it was covered in clouds. It is elusive like Mount Rainier in Washington State. One could see the extent of the drought as we flew between Nairobi and Moshi.
Elaine went on to the Rafiki Village and Ann, Ellen and I we picked up by a tour guide and taken on to our 2 day Safari. It was long drive to Lake Maynara, where we spent several hours driving through the game park. We did get to see elephants real close up and our favorite the hippopotamuses. They are really interesting to watch, we would have liked to stay and watch them when they would come out of the water, but they are very dangerous animals. This area was a forested area so the lions were in hiding in the trees. We saw the Maasai giraffes, which are a darker brown in color. I love giraffes, they are the most elegant of all the African animals. We did get through the park about a half an hour before it closed and were taken to a very nice hotel, had dinner and a wonderful hot shower. We were pretty grimy as it was hot and dusty.
Early saturday morning we headed for Ngorongoro Crater. This is a huge crater where over 20,000 wild animals live. The drive to the crater was beautiful, we were at about 8500 feet and in the clouds. The trees were just shadows in the mist. It was cool, but finally as we came down into sunshine. This area is inhabited by the Maasai tribe. Their dress is very colorful, mainly reds and purples. As the herd their livestock they carry a stick or a spear. They live in huts and farm like huts, because they are polygamists and need a hut for each wife. We saw them along the roadside herding their livestock. Their wealth is determined by how much cattle they own. In the crater the cattle coexist in the same areas as the wild animals.
I was thankful that the way into the crater and the way down was a one way road. It was switch back and dirt, Going down was less scary than going up.
Our driver and tour guide was excellent. He had very sharp eyes. We saw elephants, lions, wildebeests, zebras, cape buffaloes,antelopes, ostriches, birds. Our favorite still was those hippos. At one pond there were young ones bobbing up and down in the water. We were fascinated by the hippos, something that surprised me. They are just like a bunch of huge rocks in the water, except they move, yawn, jostle each other. All you see is backs and eyes.
I learned a lot of things about the wild animals and how they survive in somewhat of a hostile environment. It never ceases to amaze me, God's creation.
Tanzania is an interesting country. They have good roads except in the game parks where the roads are dirt. What a difference from Kenya and Uganda? They have much better roads. They build their homes as they can pay for them. It can take a lot of years to build their home, but when done it is paid for.
We were back in Nairobi sunday afternoon. Our drive from the airport was only 35-40 minutes, a first.
We got back to hear that there was rioting in Kampala, Uganda. The arriving medical team did get safely to the Rafiki Village outside of Kampala.
Today we saw some children and employee families then went for lunch and shopping. Ann and Ellen left and should be up in the air on their way home. Good byes are hard as we grow amazingly close as we serve together.
This morning we attended morning devotions and the school assembly in front of Kenyatta House. What a awesome way to start a day!
Tomorrow, Elaine, Yeen-Lan and I head for Ethiopia.
I am feeling very blessed, I can hardly take in the opportunity that God has laid out before me. I see such a future for Africa in these children.
Good night and may God bless you.
I did get my standard Nairobi cold. I am finally feeling better. My weekend Safari to Tanzania was great except it really flared up a bunch of allergies with the cold.
Friday morning we left at 7 am for the airport. The traffic was horrendous. At the airport they were having trouble checking us in. Kenyan Airways supervisors was trying to resolve the problem. In Africa it's "no worry". We were concerned they would close the boarding gates before we got there. The plane was over an hour late. Tanzania is a hop, skip and a jump, only an hour flight. They even served refreshments, and cashew nuts ( not a skimpy bag either).
There is a strong wind outside as I write this, maybe we will get rain.
Anyway on the way we did get to see Mount Kilimanjaro, which means a hill with snow on top. I had hoped to see the mountain on the way back but it was covered in clouds. It is elusive like Mount Rainier in Washington State. One could see the extent of the drought as we flew between Nairobi and Moshi.
Elaine went on to the Rafiki Village and Ann, Ellen and I we picked up by a tour guide and taken on to our 2 day Safari. It was long drive to Lake Maynara, where we spent several hours driving through the game park. We did get to see elephants real close up and our favorite the hippopotamuses. They are really interesting to watch, we would have liked to stay and watch them when they would come out of the water, but they are very dangerous animals. This area was a forested area so the lions were in hiding in the trees. We saw the Maasai giraffes, which are a darker brown in color. I love giraffes, they are the most elegant of all the African animals. We did get through the park about a half an hour before it closed and were taken to a very nice hotel, had dinner and a wonderful hot shower. We were pretty grimy as it was hot and dusty.
Early saturday morning we headed for Ngorongoro Crater. This is a huge crater where over 20,000 wild animals live. The drive to the crater was beautiful, we were at about 8500 feet and in the clouds. The trees were just shadows in the mist. It was cool, but finally as we came down into sunshine. This area is inhabited by the Maasai tribe. Their dress is very colorful, mainly reds and purples. As the herd their livestock they carry a stick or a spear. They live in huts and farm like huts, because they are polygamists and need a hut for each wife. We saw them along the roadside herding their livestock. Their wealth is determined by how much cattle they own. In the crater the cattle coexist in the same areas as the wild animals.
I was thankful that the way into the crater and the way down was a one way road. It was switch back and dirt, Going down was less scary than going up.
Our driver and tour guide was excellent. He had very sharp eyes. We saw elephants, lions, wildebeests, zebras, cape buffaloes,antelopes, ostriches, birds. Our favorite still was those hippos. At one pond there were young ones bobbing up and down in the water. We were fascinated by the hippos, something that surprised me. They are just like a bunch of huge rocks in the water, except they move, yawn, jostle each other. All you see is backs and eyes.
I learned a lot of things about the wild animals and how they survive in somewhat of a hostile environment. It never ceases to amaze me, God's creation.
Tanzania is an interesting country. They have good roads except in the game parks where the roads are dirt. What a difference from Kenya and Uganda? They have much better roads. They build their homes as they can pay for them. It can take a lot of years to build their home, but when done it is paid for.
We were back in Nairobi sunday afternoon. Our drive from the airport was only 35-40 minutes, a first.
We got back to hear that there was rioting in Kampala, Uganda. The arriving medical team did get safely to the Rafiki Village outside of Kampala.
Today we saw some children and employee families then went for lunch and shopping. Ann and Ellen left and should be up in the air on their way home. Good byes are hard as we grow amazingly close as we serve together.
This morning we attended morning devotions and the school assembly in front of Kenyatta House. What a awesome way to start a day!
Tomorrow, Elaine, Yeen-Lan and I head for Ethiopia.
I am feeling very blessed, I can hardly take in the opportunity that God has laid out before me. I see such a future for Africa in these children.
Good night and may God bless you.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Not So Lost In the Translation
The day began with a candlelight breakfast. I other words the power went out as we were having our breakfast. Thankfully my hair was dried and the coffee was made.
Today we saw about 110 patients. Things went amazingly smooth, we weren't so lost in the translations. People actually came in with specific complaints. There were some interesting issues to deal with. I had a pregnant lady come in with her prenatal book with her lab results. It said that her blood type was O +, and her HIV was non reactive. I couldn't make her understand that everything was normal. She was really stuck on the + for positive. I think she thought she was HIV positive. She got sent to the doctor for reassurance that everything was okay.
We have seen a lot of patients with worms and parasites. It is a big problem. If a family comes in we test one, if positive we treat the whole family. We believe the reason we are seeing so many patients with worms and parasites is that there is a drought here and people are drinking bad water. The staff has all been advised to take medicine once we get home.
Today I got to go shopping with some of the Kenyan volunteers. One of the volunteers had some very interesting jewelry and she volunteered to take 3 of us to the shop where she got it. We were given permission to go with her to Mwiki. There were 3 of us with 3 of the volunteers who were very protective of us. I did not take my camera because I knew pictures would not do justice to the experience. We didn't find any jewelry we liked but I would not trade the experience. I have to "unpack" this one.
Tomorrow is the last day of clinic, we will be saying a lot of good byes. Some are heading home, Dr. Bob is heading for Uganda. Four of us leave for Tanzania friday morning, Dr Elaine is going to the Rafiki Village and 3 of us are going on a Safari. We return to Nairobi on Sunday afternoon. After Monday it is just Elaine and I left here. Yeen-Lan, the village director will be going to Ethiopia with Elaine and I .
I will probably be off the radar till Sunday night.
Another African Proverb:
You think of water when the well is dry. (Ethiopian) In other words , you don't appreciate what you have till what you have is gone.
Na Munga Akubarikai.
Today we saw about 110 patients. Things went amazingly smooth, we weren't so lost in the translations. People actually came in with specific complaints. There were some interesting issues to deal with. I had a pregnant lady come in with her prenatal book with her lab results. It said that her blood type was O +, and her HIV was non reactive. I couldn't make her understand that everything was normal. She was really stuck on the + for positive. I think she thought she was HIV positive. She got sent to the doctor for reassurance that everything was okay.
We have seen a lot of patients with worms and parasites. It is a big problem. If a family comes in we test one, if positive we treat the whole family. We believe the reason we are seeing so many patients with worms and parasites is that there is a drought here and people are drinking bad water. The staff has all been advised to take medicine once we get home.
Today I got to go shopping with some of the Kenyan volunteers. One of the volunteers had some very interesting jewelry and she volunteered to take 3 of us to the shop where she got it. We were given permission to go with her to Mwiki. There were 3 of us with 3 of the volunteers who were very protective of us. I did not take my camera because I knew pictures would not do justice to the experience. We didn't find any jewelry we liked but I would not trade the experience. I have to "unpack" this one.
Tomorrow is the last day of clinic, we will be saying a lot of good byes. Some are heading home, Dr. Bob is heading for Uganda. Four of us leave for Tanzania friday morning, Dr Elaine is going to the Rafiki Village and 3 of us are going on a Safari. We return to Nairobi on Sunday afternoon. After Monday it is just Elaine and I left here. Yeen-Lan, the village director will be going to Ethiopia with Elaine and I .
I will probably be off the radar till Sunday night.
Another African Proverb:
You think of water when the well is dry. (Ethiopian) In other words , you don't appreciate what you have till what you have is gone.
Na Munga Akubarikai.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Come To Me All who Are Weary and Burdened.
Today the those who needed us came. This was the population I expected. Yesterday, I thought things had really changed and I wondered if there was a purpose in coming here. It is not for me to question those that come to the clinic, we are to serve both the rich and the poor. We had a delightful 87 year old come to the clinic. He was fairly healthy for a man his age in Africa. We saw a lot of patients with diabetes, several malnourished children, there several positive HIV patients, several with high fevers that turned to have malaria. One of our MM's got dehydrated and had to be seen in the clinic. All told we have been averaging about a 100 plus a day.
I am tired tonight . It was a warm day here. The day started with much needed rain. Since our waiting area is outdoors we were thankful that it was only rain showers.
I thank all of you for your prayers and ask that you continue to pray for me as I travel through all the countries that God is sending me to. I am in awe of the opportunities that he has laid out before me. I do feel at home here. I am making new friends and enjoying serving with old friends. One cannot but have fun when you are working with the Queen of JIX ( bleach) Thank God for JIX.
A West African Proverb ......... A hippopotamus can be made invisible in dark waters. Translated "Ignorance can hide even a big truth. (hippopotamus size)
I am tired tonight . It was a warm day here. The day started with much needed rain. Since our waiting area is outdoors we were thankful that it was only rain showers.
I thank all of you for your prayers and ask that you continue to pray for me as I travel through all the countries that God is sending me to. I am in awe of the opportunities that he has laid out before me. I do feel at home here. I am making new friends and enjoying serving with old friends. One cannot but have fun when you are working with the Queen of JIX ( bleach) Thank God for JIX.
A West African Proverb ......... A hippopotamus can be made invisible in dark waters. Translated "Ignorance can hide even a big truth. (hippopotamus size)
Monday, September 7, 2009
The Changing Face of Kenya
Today I was really aware of how the Clinic has changed since my first visit. It was unusual to see adults who weighed more than 140 -150 lbs or see many well dressed people, or women dressed in pants. Many of the little children are now dressed in jeans, have ski jackets. The little ones still wear those cute bonnets. In all people are better dressed and weigh more.
Today, those who had come to the clinic had minor problems, cough, "blocked" nose, stomach aches. The thing with the stomach aches usually means they have "worms" Of the many people I triaged only 2 were really ill. After looking at so many people with minor complaints a lady, brought in by her friend was shocking. She was obviously very ill. She had been ill for a month and apparently had been seen at another clinic. I could hardly phathom that she had come to our clinic for care, as sick as she was and apparently being followed elsewhere. She was thin, her tongue was coated white from a yeast infection. She was hot to touch. Her temperature was 102.8. It lunch time and I was told to give her some tylenol to carry her through till we got back and she would be moved ahead. Thankfully, Dr. Elaine came by and said she would rather see her before lunch. It did not take long for her to recognize that the lady was dying of Aids. Apparently the lady had been tested for HIV but told she was negative. We treated her with some antibiotics and referred her to a place where the Aids patients are treated. I don't know if she still can be helped. They do have a good Aids programs here in Africa.
Interestingly, I found out that the dying man with Aids that was dropped at our clinic gates on my first day last year, actually survived that episode. I don't know if he is still alive but we got him through one crisis.
It is good to see things getting better here in Kenya.
One of our MM asked the young volunteers what their impression of America was. They said it was the land of opportunity, that Americans had lots of money and didn't have lazy people. We did explain that we have lazy people in America, too.
An African Proverb ........ A man who helps dig a well should not be denied water.
Today, those who had come to the clinic had minor problems, cough, "blocked" nose, stomach aches. The thing with the stomach aches usually means they have "worms" Of the many people I triaged only 2 were really ill. After looking at so many people with minor complaints a lady, brought in by her friend was shocking. She was obviously very ill. She had been ill for a month and apparently had been seen at another clinic. I could hardly phathom that she had come to our clinic for care, as sick as she was and apparently being followed elsewhere. She was thin, her tongue was coated white from a yeast infection. She was hot to touch. Her temperature was 102.8. It lunch time and I was told to give her some tylenol to carry her through till we got back and she would be moved ahead. Thankfully, Dr. Elaine came by and said she would rather see her before lunch. It did not take long for her to recognize that the lady was dying of Aids. Apparently the lady had been tested for HIV but told she was negative. We treated her with some antibiotics and referred her to a place where the Aids patients are treated. I don't know if she still can be helped. They do have a good Aids programs here in Africa.
Interestingly, I found out that the dying man with Aids that was dropped at our clinic gates on my first day last year, actually survived that episode. I don't know if he is still alive but we got him through one crisis.
It is good to see things getting better here in Kenya.
One of our MM asked the young volunteers what their impression of America was. They said it was the land of opportunity, that Americans had lots of money and didn't have lazy people. We did explain that we have lazy people in America, too.
An African Proverb ........ A man who helps dig a well should not be denied water.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
A Quiet Sunday.
The expensive jewelry shop did not take all my money. Some of the jewelry was unique but I could not justify the cost. The stones were interesting but I am willing to chance that I can find the stones else where and make my own. Other than Lapis, most can be found elsewhere. The ones I liked were the Lapis and the Masai beads.
I was able to go to Kazuri jewelry and found a nice necklace and and a couple of pairs of earrings. I would like to go back to Kazuri. I like Kazuri because it supports women here. I am restraining myself from to many purchases here in Kenya as I will be going to four other countries and need to carry in a lot of medical supplies.
This morning I went to Thika Baptist Church. They had a guest speaker who was American. It was not difficult to understand what he was saying. Three of us went with 3 of the families. These children are so much fun. They are overflowing with questions. To hear them sing is something else. They can sing 3-4 verses of a hymn. I have to have the words in front of me. They also can recite scripture verses without effort. A little boy named Abel just wrapped himself around me. He was so sweet. Here we can hug children.
Most of the other MM's went to a different church and now are in town at the Masai Market. I am enjoying the quiet. Since this is my fourth trip I am not to anxious to go into town. It is a long drive through rough roads with detours, through muddy, crowded, narrow streets ( one car width) of Mwiki. In the United States we would think we were deep in the slums. There seems to be more cars on the streets than I previously remember, there is also a lot of road work being done.
Last May when I was here things were very quiet in the market place as the area had been hit by the riots after the elections. This time the markets are full. I heard how they are getting people to buy stuff they really may not want. They give you a basket to pick up things you are interested in then give you a price for the whole basket, so people really don't know what they paid for what. The Masai Market can be overwhelming when they come at you from all the directions.
I spent a couple of hours with Elaine packing stuff for the different villages. It is amazing what we will be carrying in. Yikes! We have a bag for Tanzania, one for Ethiopia, the bulk of the supplies are going to Zambia and Malawi. We will need a lot of prayers that the 2 of us can manage all this.
I will close for now, I am tired and need to be refreshed for tomorrow. One does not know what the week will be like. It is windy outside . Maybe it will rain.
I was able to go to Kazuri jewelry and found a nice necklace and and a couple of pairs of earrings. I would like to go back to Kazuri. I like Kazuri because it supports women here. I am restraining myself from to many purchases here in Kenya as I will be going to four other countries and need to carry in a lot of medical supplies.
This morning I went to Thika Baptist Church. They had a guest speaker who was American. It was not difficult to understand what he was saying. Three of us went with 3 of the families. These children are so much fun. They are overflowing with questions. To hear them sing is something else. They can sing 3-4 verses of a hymn. I have to have the words in front of me. They also can recite scripture verses without effort. A little boy named Abel just wrapped himself around me. He was so sweet. Here we can hug children.
Most of the other MM's went to a different church and now are in town at the Masai Market. I am enjoying the quiet. Since this is my fourth trip I am not to anxious to go into town. It is a long drive through rough roads with detours, through muddy, crowded, narrow streets ( one car width) of Mwiki. In the United States we would think we were deep in the slums. There seems to be more cars on the streets than I previously remember, there is also a lot of road work being done.
Last May when I was here things were very quiet in the market place as the area had been hit by the riots after the elections. This time the markets are full. I heard how they are getting people to buy stuff they really may not want. They give you a basket to pick up things you are interested in then give you a price for the whole basket, so people really don't know what they paid for what. The Masai Market can be overwhelming when they come at you from all the directions.
I spent a couple of hours with Elaine packing stuff for the different villages. It is amazing what we will be carrying in. Yikes! We have a bag for Tanzania, one for Ethiopia, the bulk of the supplies are going to Zambia and Malawi. We will need a lot of prayers that the 2 of us can manage all this.
I will close for now, I am tired and need to be refreshed for tomorrow. One does not know what the week will be like. It is windy outside . Maybe it will rain.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Week One Accomplished!
It is hard to believe that we have completed the first week of our medical clinic. The changes that were made have made the clinic more organized and efficient. Our day begins at 7am and ends around 4 pm. Today we saw over 100 patients. We saw lots of those beautiful, sweet African babies. They are so precious, I would like to bring them all home with me.
I am not as tired as I usually am at the end of the week. I used to wonder if I could make another week. We worked 4 1/2 days instead of 4 this week. Tonight we all had dinner at one of the ROS' home. We had a mexican dinner and all the fixings, fresh homemade tortillas, wonderfully delicious apple pie and ice cream. Yes, I am really on a mission trip. God always blesses us more that we can imagine.
Our team includes 3 husbands of the clinic volunteers. What a blessing these men are to the staff that are here and to the children. And what an example they are to the paid workers!
As Americans we have so much to be grateful for, America has the best health care in the world yet we are not satisfied. I find it interesting to note that health care in Kenya is free ( they do have to buy their own medications.) Yet people come here for our care. We come here not with miracle drugs but with a desire to serve God. We really accomplish nothing without His loving touch.
Something that was shared here was how God protected the Village from the disruption and destruction caused by those protesting the last election in December 2007. The village was spared because they recognized the good that Rafiki is doing for the African children.
Tomorrow I will be going to some place I should stay away from....... Gemini .......... a jewelry store of precious stones.
Keep me in your prayers for wisdom, strength and safety.
May God Bless you all!
I am not as tired as I usually am at the end of the week. I used to wonder if I could make another week. We worked 4 1/2 days instead of 4 this week. Tonight we all had dinner at one of the ROS' home. We had a mexican dinner and all the fixings, fresh homemade tortillas, wonderfully delicious apple pie and ice cream. Yes, I am really on a mission trip. God always blesses us more that we can imagine.
Our team includes 3 husbands of the clinic volunteers. What a blessing these men are to the staff that are here and to the children. And what an example they are to the paid workers!
As Americans we have so much to be grateful for, America has the best health care in the world yet we are not satisfied. I find it interesting to note that health care in Kenya is free ( they do have to buy their own medications.) Yet people come here for our care. We come here not with miracle drugs but with a desire to serve God. We really accomplish nothing without His loving touch.
Something that was shared here was how God protected the Village from the disruption and destruction caused by those protesting the last election in December 2007. The village was spared because they recognized the good that Rafiki is doing for the African children.
Tomorrow I will be going to some place I should stay away from....... Gemini .......... a jewelry store of precious stones.
Keep me in your prayers for wisdom, strength and safety.
May God Bless you all!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Muranga
Muranga, it rained today. Muranga means rain in Swahili. It is very dry here. They haven't had rain since January so it very dry and dusty. When we headed toward the clinic this morning I thought it was comfortable outside. After morning devotions (outdoors) it must have dropped several degrees. It was cold. The people here bundle their children 5 to 6 layers of clothing. I understand this is the cold season.
We saw 100 people today, many children, babies too. A couple babies had high fevers partially due to all the clothes. There are a lot of people complaining of the same symptoms. Interestingly, we are not getting the long list of complaints about every body part. I did hear that the complaints change from the nurse to the doctor. Nothing new.
Chuckles for the day:
The talking box...... One of the physicians was telling us about some of the former students who are going to school in the US. He asked them what they found the most interesting about America. One said the roads, that people actually follow the rules. The other said the" talking box". The talking box turns out to be that box we talk to when we order at drive thru restaurant. We were joking about Mc Donald's and such when one of the volunteers pulled up his shirt and said " I guess I'm one of them." He had a McDonald's red t-shirt, golden arches and all.
Then there was the lady with the t-shirt that said......." My next husband will be normal." I can't say she knew what her t-shirt said.
My personal favorite.
They have these colorful scarves with African sayings. I asked some of the volunteers what I should look for in a saying on a scarf. They liked something about God. I brought up up the name Bwana. They then explained that Bwana with a capital " B" meant " God." Bwana with a small "b" meant "husband." I thought that was pretty funny. Funnier still, when you are talking, how would you know which Bwana you are talking about, with a big "B" or a little "b."
Another day comes to a close.
We saw 100 people today, many children, babies too. A couple babies had high fevers partially due to all the clothes. There are a lot of people complaining of the same symptoms. Interestingly, we are not getting the long list of complaints about every body part. I did hear that the complaints change from the nurse to the doctor. Nothing new.
Chuckles for the day:
The talking box...... One of the physicians was telling us about some of the former students who are going to school in the US. He asked them what they found the most interesting about America. One said the roads, that people actually follow the rules. The other said the" talking box". The talking box turns out to be that box we talk to when we order at drive thru restaurant. We were joking about Mc Donald's and such when one of the volunteers pulled up his shirt and said " I guess I'm one of them." He had a McDonald's red t-shirt, golden arches and all.
Then there was the lady with the t-shirt that said......." My next husband will be normal." I can't say she knew what her t-shirt said.
My personal favorite.
They have these colorful scarves with African sayings. I asked some of the volunteers what I should look for in a saying on a scarf. They liked something about God. I brought up up the name Bwana. They then explained that Bwana with a capital " B" meant " God." Bwana with a small "b" meant "husband." I thought that was pretty funny. Funnier still, when you are talking, how would you know which Bwana you are talking about, with a big "B" or a little "b."
Another day comes to a close.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
At Last Computer Access
Finally I am on line. Arrived late Sunday, luggage intact. The last leg of the flight seemed very long. We went right to work on Monday. Monday and Tuesday were spent seeing the children and employees. Today was the first day of the community clinic. We saw 86 patients. They have made some positive changes as to how the clinic is managed. We are 3 nurses, 2 doctors , a PA, and pharmacist. There are 3 husbands who are helping with maintenance. All in all it was an easy day.
It is very, very dry here. We don't have guaranteed electricity. The computer access has been marginal at best. I am not doing to well with the food and the malaria medicine. I think I am more jet lagged than usual. I did take a nap this afternoon and I feel better.
It is amazing to see the children, how they have grown. The 2 babies from 2006 are now 3 years old. One was very small at birth became very cubby, but she has really slimed down. The faces and names are slowly coming together. They are so sweet. The oldest children are now about 12. One boy may be 13 or 14. They think they had an incorrect age when he came. Monday night I went to the family evening devotion at Bethsaida House. How would you like to be a mama of 10 boys, 2 were sent to bed early for misbehaving before I arrived. Tonight I am going to Nazareth house. Will I remember there names?
There are 80 children here and 42 children that are day students here. Despite the drought-like surroundings this is a beautiful vibrant place.
I will probably be going to another country. I have the opportunity of going on a Safari in Tanzania with 2 others.
I cannot believe the opportunities that I have been given. God's blessings are abundant and more than one can imagine.
It is very, very dry here. We don't have guaranteed electricity. The computer access has been marginal at best. I am not doing to well with the food and the malaria medicine. I think I am more jet lagged than usual. I did take a nap this afternoon and I feel better.
It is amazing to see the children, how they have grown. The 2 babies from 2006 are now 3 years old. One was very small at birth became very cubby, but she has really slimed down. The faces and names are slowly coming together. They are so sweet. The oldest children are now about 12. One boy may be 13 or 14. They think they had an incorrect age when he came. Monday night I went to the family evening devotion at Bethsaida House. How would you like to be a mama of 10 boys, 2 were sent to bed early for misbehaving before I arrived. Tonight I am going to Nazareth house. Will I remember there names?
There are 80 children here and 42 children that are day students here. Despite the drought-like surroundings this is a beautiful vibrant place.
I will probably be going to another country. I have the opportunity of going on a Safari in Tanzania with 2 others.
I cannot believe the opportunities that I have been given. God's blessings are abundant and more than one can imagine.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
This the Day
This the day the Lord has made, Let us be glad and rejoice in it.
I can hardly believe I am leaving for Africa this morning. It is a glorious day and God is good .... all the time God is good. I have been abundantly blessed.
I am packed, a lot of luggage. Thankfully I am leaving the greater amount in Africa. I hope I don't fill them back up.
My plane leaves at 11:20 am. I will be in Kenya Sunday at 7:05 pm, Kenyan time.
I leave with my "flying prayer" ..... The Eternal God is your refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms.(Deuteronomy 33:27) I pray for travel mercies and all the medical supplies will arrive intact.
Next stop Kenya!
I can hardly believe I am leaving for Africa this morning. It is a glorious day and God is good .... all the time God is good. I have been abundantly blessed.
I am packed, a lot of luggage. Thankfully I am leaving the greater amount in Africa. I hope I don't fill them back up.
My plane leaves at 11:20 am. I will be in Kenya Sunday at 7:05 pm, Kenyan time.
I leave with my "flying prayer" ..... The Eternal God is your refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms.(Deuteronomy 33:27) I pray for travel mercies and all the medical supplies will arrive intact.
Next stop Kenya!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Crunch Time
In 5 days I will be in Africa. I am busy getting everything together. Medical supplies have arrived from Headquarters, I am waiting for eye glass readers to arrive. I look at how much I need to pack and wonder how I am going to get it into the alloted space.
What do I want to take with me? What do I really need? What can I do without? The good thing is that I need only one nice dress for church and it doesn't matter if I wear the same one every Sunday. I will probably attend church in 4 different countries. The rest of my clothing need to be washable and clothing that I don't care if they get ruined. As I pack the decision becomes clear as to what is really on the need list and what would be nice to have along. I call this part of the process of leaving myself behind and melding into a different culture.
What do I want to take with me? What do I really need? What can I do without? The good thing is that I need only one nice dress for church and it doesn't matter if I wear the same one every Sunday. I will probably attend church in 4 different countries. The rest of my clothing need to be washable and clothing that I don't care if they get ruined. As I pack the decision becomes clear as to what is really on the need list and what would be nice to have along. I call this part of the process of leaving myself behind and melding into a different culture.
I have a long list of a lot of little details to take care of before I leave..... it always amazes me how much time these little things seem to take. There always seems there is one more detail. Six weeks seems such along time, but I know the time will go by quickly. It is not the comforts of life in America that I will miss, it is being far away from family.
Saturday, August 29th, the adventure begins.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Getting Ready
August 29th I leave for a 6 week mini-mission trip to Africa. This will be my fourth trip to assist at a medical clinic with Rafiki. This time my trip will include Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia and Malawai. Previously, I served in Kenya and Uganda . I must say all my trips have been new adventures. How could they be anything else when you travel with God. I never know the shape and form they will take. Each trip leaves me amazed at the awesomeness of what God does. I am extremely humbled by the fact that God has given me the privilege to be part of His great plan for Africa. People ask me, "what do you do when you go on these trips?" The answer to that is I do what needs to be done, it has even included picking up garbage at the end of the day. There is nothing special about what I do, for the most part anyone could do what I do. Somethings are not pleasant, some are hard, some are uplifting, some are sobering and thought provoking. I have been tired and realized that God has given me the strength to carry on. He has used me in my full strength and in my weakness. He has used my voice and left me voiceless. He has encouraged me with the simple things, He has given me a heart for the African people. He has given me a reason to go and He teaches me to trust Him.
I have decided to write this blog to share with all who are interested, my wonderful up coming adventure with the one and only true God.
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