Friday, January 28, 2011

Summary of the First Week

So I have made it to Kibogora, and I have been here now 2 days.  Rwanda is a beautiful country.  I hope to be able to post pictures soon.  The hospital sits a large hill.  Well, for Indiana it would definitely be a mountain, but for Rwanda it is just a hill.  The mission and hospital staff have been so great.  The mission compound is very nice.  We are having some problems with the broadband service, so currently I am on the internet through a cell phone pay per bite modem.  That is why no posting pictures.  Yes there is such a dichotomy here.  Very little access to health care, but many people carry around cell phones.  I am not sure I will ever get use to the staring or being followed almost everywhere.  People shout "Mzungu", which means white person in Kinyarwanda, which is the local language though many speak French and some speak English.
I have worked two days in the hospital now.  It is very tough.  The language barrier can be difficult, but I am getting by.  However, basic tests that we take for granted such as electrolytes are not available here.  There is Xray and U/S, which is somewhat helpful.  However, there is no one hear to read the ultrasound besides myself.  Many times I am just making guesses at what patients have because there is no diagnostic test, especially no cultures.  I have already been completely stumped twice, so it has definitely been a humbling experience so far.
I will continue giving updates.  I hope everyone back home is well.
God Bless,
James

4 comments:

  1. Hang in there, James. You'll adjust quickly; you always do.

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  2. I am sure you are helping tremendously!
    We are so proud of you!
    Hang in there!

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  3. You will be wonderful! Just remember how much you are helping, and even though you may seem stumped- I'm sure that every one there is so thankful for you. You are a brilliant physician! Love you!!

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  4. Keep doing what you are able to do .It is enough.Looking forward to some photos!God bless and keep you .

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