No, I'm not talking basketball; I'm talking about the final four days that I have on the wonderful island of Roatan! Like all goodbyes, they are definitely bittersweet. While I am ready to get home, there is much around here that I will miss.
When it comes to the last days, there is no rest for the weary. Instead, clinic is full force this week! There are 2 new volunteers that started today, so this week will involved orienting them to the clinic and teaching them the ways of the clinic. In addition, I will be training the nurse that will be working in my spot for the next week/week and a half until my replacement comes- Miss Peggy, herself! Since I have been working in the clinic more or less on my own this past year, Peggy needs to be brought up to speed so people aren't completely lost when I go. With so many volunteers in the clinic (other than non-medical and med students), we saw close to 60 patients today! Haven't seen those numbers for a while. Therefore, clinic this week will probably be busy, but I will work until the end! Although I am ready to move on from working in a clinic, there are many things that I will miss about Clinica Esperanza. The staff has been wonderful getting to know and work with. The patients are so appreciative and over the course of the year, I have really gotten to know some of them well. Everyday, I was constantly learning something new! I will miss them all, but I will be back for sure! If nothing else, for vacation- I hear Roatan has one of the best reefs in the world ;)
Over the past several days, the goodbyes have started. I finally got my iguana dinner at Dr. Raymond's and man was it delicious! My final mass in West End was on Saturday after which we had cake to say farewell (it was delicious and may have left me with a little sugar high!). Sunday was service at rChurch with a very nice blessing, followed by a snorkel (not all that great....water's kind of stirred up) and some sun in West Bay. Then, last night we took a party barge sunset cruise! It was perfect- the water was calm, almost all the clinic staff was there and leaders of both churches, delicious food, another TWO cakes, and a wonderful sunset! Couldn't get much better. Oh yeah, and the TV station was there....apparently I'm THAT important that I am newsworthy. Who knew?!
These next few days are going to fly by as I wrap things up here. A few more dinners and goodbyes to say around the island, a few more tutoring sessions, 3 more days of clinic, a year's worth of stuff to pack up, and most of all, a whole clinic staff to say goodbye to. That's gonna be tough- not looking forward to that one :( My plane leaves Friday at 11:45 and almost 24 hrs later I arrive in Sioux Falls at 10:10. It'll be a long journey filled with anticipation, but so rewarding once I get home to family and friends!
Please keep me in your prayers as I prepare for my journeys.
See you all on the flip side!
Laura
Monday, September 5, 2011
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Today's prayer from CMMB that I pray for each and everyone of you!
Lord, you call our children to make a journey of faith. Keep them faithful to Your Word; hold them safely in the palm of Your hand. Teach them to choose life and to choose what is right, and just and true. Help them to share with others the life You promise, in service of the poor. Open their minds and hearts to the truth of the Scriptures. Nourish them with the bread and cup of the Eucharist. Lead our young pilgrims along the way, Lord, and make safe their journey to You and the life You promise us. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen
Amen
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Patience is a Virtue
If it hadn't sunk in one of the hundreds of times my mom has said it to me, I have definitely been faced with it here! Patience is virtue that I seem to use on a daily basis. Having a different set of volunteers every month, if not almost every week, sure has kept me on my toes with how things are run around the clinic. Almost weekly I am orientated someone new to the ways of the clinic and I will be the first to tell you it hasn't always been easy. Volunteers come in all shapes, sizes, colors, etc... Some are residents, some med students, some college students, and others licensed professionals. Everyone comes with a different skill set and from a different background. Some learn quickly and some it takes a lit while for them to catch on. Practicing medicine in a third world clinic where you rely on donations and where not all patients can afford to buy medications at the pharmacy can be very difficult. However, in order to best serve these people, you have to use what you have at the time. So, usually just as people are starting to really get the hang of things, it is their turn to go home and others' turns to come. Here we go- teaching the same things all over again! While at times it did get quite repetative, it has been great working with so many different people. During the times that people took longer to adapt to the ways of the clinic I would just think to myself, 'be patient with them, they are new...it takes time; it's a different way of practicing then they are used to'. Or, every once and a while, the thought would pass through my mind 'if you're just patient, they will be done in x amount of days'. Luckily it was usually the prior one that passed through my mind and things all worked out with a little patience.
The most enduring thing that I had to have patience with? Obtaining the license for the upstairs. Coming down here I was expecting to work in the clinic for 2-3 months before the upstairs would be open and then I would get to split my time between the clinic and the inpatient pediatrics and birthing center. Well, that didn't quite happen. Month after month the licensing date kept getting pushed back due to one thing or another. We needed certain supplies, there always seemed to be a paper that we didn't have that we "needed", the ministry of health would cancel appts, etc. It has been a very frustrating year in respect to getting to see the upstairs opened. However, patience (and much persistance) has once again finally paid off and we received our license today!!! So now, it REALLY is just a matter of time before we open the upstairs to our first patients. Hopefully by the middle of September staffing will all be in place and we will be opened. Unfortunately, I probably won't get to see the first patients, so I guess I will be returning for sure some day.
There are so many other aspects of my life as well, that I have learned that with time, patience, and trust in God, everything will all fall into place. As much as I hate the saying "patience is a virtue", it is true. God doesn't let things happen before He feels it is time. If we are patient, faithful, and trust in His ways, He will guide us toward our answers and the paths that we are to follow. So, next time you want something like right now, and you don't get it, there is probably a reason. Be patient and it will come about the way it is meant to be.
Love to all!
Laura
The most enduring thing that I had to have patience with? Obtaining the license for the upstairs. Coming down here I was expecting to work in the clinic for 2-3 months before the upstairs would be open and then I would get to split my time between the clinic and the inpatient pediatrics and birthing center. Well, that didn't quite happen. Month after month the licensing date kept getting pushed back due to one thing or another. We needed certain supplies, there always seemed to be a paper that we didn't have that we "needed", the ministry of health would cancel appts, etc. It has been a very frustrating year in respect to getting to see the upstairs opened. However, patience (and much persistance) has once again finally paid off and we received our license today!!! So now, it REALLY is just a matter of time before we open the upstairs to our first patients. Hopefully by the middle of September staffing will all be in place and we will be opened. Unfortunately, I probably won't get to see the first patients, so I guess I will be returning for sure some day.
There are so many other aspects of my life as well, that I have learned that with time, patience, and trust in God, everything will all fall into place. As much as I hate the saying "patience is a virtue", it is true. God doesn't let things happen before He feels it is time. If we are patient, faithful, and trust in His ways, He will guide us toward our answers and the paths that we are to follow. So, next time you want something like right now, and you don't get it, there is probably a reason. Be patient and it will come about the way it is meant to be.
Love to all!
Laura
Saturday, August 6, 2011
It's the Final Countdown
1 month, 34 days, 826 hrs, or some grand amount of minutes. However you want to look at it, my time volunteering at Clinica Esperanza in Honduras is quickly coming to an end. Many people that I run into or talk to commonly ask me, "Are you ready to go home?" Of course, the only logical answer would be "YES! I am very ready to get home and see my family and friends again." With goodbyes, there are of course things that will be missed, but in taking the days as they come and with looking to what lies ahead, I have yet to really consider all that I will miss about here.
This morning while snorkeling, in addition to taking in the beauty of the underwater world, I was thinking about what lies ahead for me this fall. And then, a little bit ago, I was looking at pictures of some of my younger siblings. Over the past 5 years, I haven't constantly been home as I have been off at college and now in Honduras. Unfortunately, my siblings have not stopped growing! Instead they are all soo grown up and I feel like I have missed out on really getting to spend time with them. Throughout this year, as I have gotten to share my family with all the people I have met, I have realized that there is soo much that I don't know about some of them. This fall as I spend time at home I am going to really cherish every minute that I have to spend with them and really getting to know them.
The other day a couple of us were getting ready to go to the grocery store. There is one grocery store (Eldon's) that is just like walking into an American supermarket as it has all the brands and the selection you would find there. It's not very often that I go to this one because we have a market a lot closer. However, a new Eldon's was just opened up in front of the closer grocery store so we were pretty excited. One of the Hondurans at the clinic just laughed at us, but let me tell you, going to the grocery store is often pretty exciting for us! Going to the store at home is usually a lot more convenient as you often pass by it on the way home. Here, not so much--it can be a whole process to arrange a trip to the grocery store. The convenience of being able to run to the store whenever I want/need to will be wonderful!
Another thing that I am soo excited about?! The changing seasons. That's right, I am actually looking forward to the winter and the snow and being able to wear sweats and a sweatshirt! While I like the heat and the beach and the ocean, I definitely cannot live without the 4 seasons- I love the change all too much! Living here where throughout the year the tempurature ranges from 70-100+, it has felt like the longest summer ever! Come to think of it, maybe that's why this year has seemed soo much longer than any other year! Along with seasons, come holiday and family traditions. I was just talking with someone tonight about how one thing she is going to miss this year is picking apples. It's the little things like this that aren't here and that we are accustomed to doing that you start to miss after a while. Partaking in the traditions once again will be nice.
Other things I look forward to are seeing old friends, home cooked meals with a varied diet (more than rice, beans, chicken, and pasta- although it is pretty good), a large glass of cold milk, a room to mess up without a housekeeper cleaning it, living without pets (aside from fish), flushing toilet paper, fast internet, consistent electricity, bonfires, saving money instead of spending money, sharing this wonderful experience with others, being able to pick up the phone to call someone whenever I want, not always knowing everyone I see (although that can be just as hard at home since everyone seems to know us!), and I'm sure the list could go on.
But as I finish out my time here, my focus remains on the tasks at hand. Like I started out saying, I have 1 month, 34 days, 826 hrs, or some grand amount of minutes left on this island. However, it is that much time that I have left to finish the work that God has put in place for me to do. He's not done with me here yet, otherwise I would be headed home tomorrow. So until then, I continue on moving forward, making strides, and serving people through God.
Peace and Love!
Laura
This morning while snorkeling, in addition to taking in the beauty of the underwater world, I was thinking about what lies ahead for me this fall. And then, a little bit ago, I was looking at pictures of some of my younger siblings. Over the past 5 years, I haven't constantly been home as I have been off at college and now in Honduras. Unfortunately, my siblings have not stopped growing! Instead they are all soo grown up and I feel like I have missed out on really getting to spend time with them. Throughout this year, as I have gotten to share my family with all the people I have met, I have realized that there is soo much that I don't know about some of them. This fall as I spend time at home I am going to really cherish every minute that I have to spend with them and really getting to know them.
The other day a couple of us were getting ready to go to the grocery store. There is one grocery store (Eldon's) that is just like walking into an American supermarket as it has all the brands and the selection you would find there. It's not very often that I go to this one because we have a market a lot closer. However, a new Eldon's was just opened up in front of the closer grocery store so we were pretty excited. One of the Hondurans at the clinic just laughed at us, but let me tell you, going to the grocery store is often pretty exciting for us! Going to the store at home is usually a lot more convenient as you often pass by it on the way home. Here, not so much--it can be a whole process to arrange a trip to the grocery store. The convenience of being able to run to the store whenever I want/need to will be wonderful!
Another thing that I am soo excited about?! The changing seasons. That's right, I am actually looking forward to the winter and the snow and being able to wear sweats and a sweatshirt! While I like the heat and the beach and the ocean, I definitely cannot live without the 4 seasons- I love the change all too much! Living here where throughout the year the tempurature ranges from 70-100+, it has felt like the longest summer ever! Come to think of it, maybe that's why this year has seemed soo much longer than any other year! Along with seasons, come holiday and family traditions. I was just talking with someone tonight about how one thing she is going to miss this year is picking apples. It's the little things like this that aren't here and that we are accustomed to doing that you start to miss after a while. Partaking in the traditions once again will be nice.
Other things I look forward to are seeing old friends, home cooked meals with a varied diet (more than rice, beans, chicken, and pasta- although it is pretty good), a large glass of cold milk, a room to mess up without a housekeeper cleaning it, living without pets (aside from fish), flushing toilet paper, fast internet, consistent electricity, bonfires, saving money instead of spending money, sharing this wonderful experience with others, being able to pick up the phone to call someone whenever I want, not always knowing everyone I see (although that can be just as hard at home since everyone seems to know us!), and I'm sure the list could go on.
But as I finish out my time here, my focus remains on the tasks at hand. Like I started out saying, I have 1 month, 34 days, 826 hrs, or some grand amount of minutes left on this island. However, it is that much time that I have left to finish the work that God has put in place for me to do. He's not done with me here yet, otherwise I would be headed home tomorrow. So until then, I continue on moving forward, making strides, and serving people through God.
Peace and Love!
Laura
Friday, July 22, 2011
Take time to smell the roses!
Roses are one of my all time favorite flowers, and whenever I see them I always have to take time to smell them. However, literally, that is not what this post is about. Over the past couple weeks, I have really started to reflect on what it is that I am going to take from my time volunteering here. There have been many things that I have loved, many joys, and a few frustrations. In the end, aside from the medical knowledge that I gained, there are 2 key things that I will keep with me always.
First of all, the pace of life here is much different than life at home. After arriving here 10 and a half months ago, it took me some time to really adjust to life as I know it now. There wasn't constantly something to do, there was no need to rush from one thing to the next (aside from the times that I had 3 or 4 people all demanding my attention at once), and there is time to just sit and do nothing! During the first month here, I was a bit frazzled and at times frustrated (more with myself than anything) because I didn't feel like things were getting down. However, things were getting down; it just that I didn't have 30 things that needed to be down. They were big projects that take time to complete. Besides that, I had free time- what is one supposed to do with that!? Free time is something that I haven't had in soo long. Growing up, I was always involved in sports and music (which I loved...wouldn't change a minute of it) and in college there was always something to do- activities, papers, projects, meetings, work, etc. Throughout the course of this year, it has been nice to slow down and really have time to take in life. I have time in my day to sit and reflect on life. I can sit in the hammock and watch the people on the dock and the ocean or take a nap and not feel like I should be doing something. I have been soo fortunate to be living right on the ocean, meaning that I have access to some of the best sunsets! Don't think I could ever get sick of those and I will definitely miss them. But because of the pace of life, I can actually sit and watch the sun set...it's almost like sitting and watching the grass grow, but it's beautiful and part of God's creation! The speed of life will be an adjustment when I get back, but an adjustment I think I am ready for. However, I will never forget how nice it is to have some time when you can sit and do nothing...those days will definitely find themselves back into my days from time to time when I get home.
Another thing that I continue to notice almost on a daily basis is how magnificent God is. Not that I have ever doubted how great our God is, but here, I don't know if it's just because I have more time to think situations through or what, but God really does work in mysterious ways. Plus, things definitely happen on His time, not ours. Time and time again, there will be something that we need/want but aren't getting. Eventually, several days/weeks later that thing we wanted/needed appears and coincidentally it's right when we need it and usually at a better time than before. As much as we want things to happen on our schedule, they aren't going to. Everything happens for a reason! For instance, in preparing for my return home, I need to start looking for jobs. I kept applying to various positions at the hospital with no success. Finally I decided maybe I needed to try a different route this fall. I started looking into other options and there were soo many just waiting for me. So instead of working in the hospital, I will be working with Children's Home Society (assuming I pass the background check and drug screening...haha), a residential treatment center for abused and neglected children that also may have behavioral issues. I don't know what it will hold, but it could be something that opens a door for the future. Regardless, I am willing to try it out to see what they are all about and I am excited to be working with them a couple days a week. Aside from that, I think I will also be working with the volunteer school nurse program that the catholic school system has. Hopefully thoughout the fall, I will be able to continue seeing the great works that God has planned for me.
With all my visitors, I am continually reminded of the differences between here and the states. One of my best friends was just down visiting and again it was the same thing. However, I am soo greatful to be able to share an experience like this with each and every one of them. The disadvantaged and underserved people often get forgotten and they are part of my passion and drive for my profession. Sharing this experience with people helps me share my passion with others first hand and it gives me the opportunity to help others understand, even if just in the smallest ways, how privilaged we are. I have truly enjoyed my time down here (and will continue to), but am also looking forward to coming home to be able to share pictures, stories, and thoughts with all of you! (not that I am counting, but 7 weeks from today, I will be headed home!)
Going out to smell the roses...
Laura
First of all, the pace of life here is much different than life at home. After arriving here 10 and a half months ago, it took me some time to really adjust to life as I know it now. There wasn't constantly something to do, there was no need to rush from one thing to the next (aside from the times that I had 3 or 4 people all demanding my attention at once), and there is time to just sit and do nothing! During the first month here, I was a bit frazzled and at times frustrated (more with myself than anything) because I didn't feel like things were getting down. However, things were getting down; it just that I didn't have 30 things that needed to be down. They were big projects that take time to complete. Besides that, I had free time- what is one supposed to do with that!? Free time is something that I haven't had in soo long. Growing up, I was always involved in sports and music (which I loved...wouldn't change a minute of it) and in college there was always something to do- activities, papers, projects, meetings, work, etc. Throughout the course of this year, it has been nice to slow down and really have time to take in life. I have time in my day to sit and reflect on life. I can sit in the hammock and watch the people on the dock and the ocean or take a nap and not feel like I should be doing something. I have been soo fortunate to be living right on the ocean, meaning that I have access to some of the best sunsets! Don't think I could ever get sick of those and I will definitely miss them. But because of the pace of life, I can actually sit and watch the sun set...it's almost like sitting and watching the grass grow, but it's beautiful and part of God's creation! The speed of life will be an adjustment when I get back, but an adjustment I think I am ready for. However, I will never forget how nice it is to have some time when you can sit and do nothing...those days will definitely find themselves back into my days from time to time when I get home.
Another thing that I continue to notice almost on a daily basis is how magnificent God is. Not that I have ever doubted how great our God is, but here, I don't know if it's just because I have more time to think situations through or what, but God really does work in mysterious ways. Plus, things definitely happen on His time, not ours. Time and time again, there will be something that we need/want but aren't getting. Eventually, several days/weeks later that thing we wanted/needed appears and coincidentally it's right when we need it and usually at a better time than before. As much as we want things to happen on our schedule, they aren't going to. Everything happens for a reason! For instance, in preparing for my return home, I need to start looking for jobs. I kept applying to various positions at the hospital with no success. Finally I decided maybe I needed to try a different route this fall. I started looking into other options and there were soo many just waiting for me. So instead of working in the hospital, I will be working with Children's Home Society (assuming I pass the background check and drug screening...haha), a residential treatment center for abused and neglected children that also may have behavioral issues. I don't know what it will hold, but it could be something that opens a door for the future. Regardless, I am willing to try it out to see what they are all about and I am excited to be working with them a couple days a week. Aside from that, I think I will also be working with the volunteer school nurse program that the catholic school system has. Hopefully thoughout the fall, I will be able to continue seeing the great works that God has planned for me.
With all my visitors, I am continually reminded of the differences between here and the states. One of my best friends was just down visiting and again it was the same thing. However, I am soo greatful to be able to share an experience like this with each and every one of them. The disadvantaged and underserved people often get forgotten and they are part of my passion and drive for my profession. Sharing this experience with people helps me share my passion with others first hand and it gives me the opportunity to help others understand, even if just in the smallest ways, how privilaged we are. I have truly enjoyed my time down here (and will continue to), but am also looking forward to coming home to be able to share pictures, stories, and thoughts with all of you! (not that I am counting, but 7 weeks from today, I will be headed home!)
Going out to smell the roses...
Laura
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Turn that Frown Upside Down!
Remember the good times. Don't cry over spilled milk. Don't dwell on the past. Make the most out of everything. Get up, brush it off, and move on. As long as I can remember, these are all things that I have been told. Optimism; it's the way I like to look at life, and have learned so much more while being here.
Today, after I got back to the clinic from taking Debbie to the airport, the first things that I was asked: "Are you sad? Did you cry? Did she cry?" While it was sad to see her go, we had a great 5 days together and that's what matters- the good times! We were able to relax, enjoy the island, take in some sun, and do a little exploring. A trip to the East end, minutes after she got off the plane; a ceremony and mass celebrating the formation of the Bay Islands as a parish; kayaking, snorkeling, sun, and hiking; a dud for a firework show and a firework show well worth seeing. A weekend well spent!
Glass half empty, or half full? At times, many of us forget to look on the bright side. Things happen in our lives on a daily basis that, if we let them, could ruin our day, week, month, etc... All we can think about is how we miss that moment, or what if we did it a little different, or let's just live in that time forever. However, we can't dwell on them; if we do, we will only create more of them because we will miss creating the future. When a child falls down, often times the first thing they do is look around to see others' reactions. If you turn out your lip and say, "Poor thing" and immediately sweep them up and make a huge deal out of it, chances are they will start to cry. Try instead, brushing it off and making it game like. When my little brother was younger and would fall, we would look at him raise our hands and say "Touchdown!" (he was a lover of sports:) ) Instead of crying and dwelling on the fall, he would get up and continue on playing as if nothing had happened. It's the innocence of childhood at it's finest. I've found the same thing true over this past year. Volunteers and friends are constantly coming and going. It is rare that a volunteer stays longer than 4-6 weeks; it's part of my reality this past year. I could dwell on the fact that another volunteer has come and gone and now I am sad that they are no longer here. I could have the constant mindset of "what if so and so was here? What would we be doing?" They're not here though, someone else is; I must make the most out of the time that I have with them. Then when they are headed back to their prospective home, I must not dwell on the past, but remember the good times we had together. Because of this, I have been able to make some good friends that I am sure I will stay in contact with.
This is true of any situation that you or I find ourselves in. I can look back over the course of the past few days, months, and years and come up with many things that have left me sad and not wanting to leave the moment. But it was inevitable; I didn't have a choice. Time went on. I took the time to remember the good things about the moment that I will forever cherish and went on creating more of these moments. If we constantly dwell on the past and on the sad moments of life, I believe we will be in for one of the most miserable life's possible. Instead, remember the happy moments of life so that you can continue to create more happy moments and lasting memories.
So what will you do? Get up and brush it off, or stay down and wait for the moment to reverse? Is your glass half empty or half full? That milk that spilled- is it really worth crying over, or should you just clean it up and get a new glass?
Have a blessed week! Miss you all but loving my experiences!
Today, after I got back to the clinic from taking Debbie to the airport, the first things that I was asked: "Are you sad? Did you cry? Did she cry?" While it was sad to see her go, we had a great 5 days together and that's what matters- the good times! We were able to relax, enjoy the island, take in some sun, and do a little exploring. A trip to the East end, minutes after she got off the plane; a ceremony and mass celebrating the formation of the Bay Islands as a parish; kayaking, snorkeling, sun, and hiking; a dud for a firework show and a firework show well worth seeing. A weekend well spent!
Glass half empty, or half full? At times, many of us forget to look on the bright side. Things happen in our lives on a daily basis that, if we let them, could ruin our day, week, month, etc... All we can think about is how we miss that moment, or what if we did it a little different, or let's just live in that time forever. However, we can't dwell on them; if we do, we will only create more of them because we will miss creating the future. When a child falls down, often times the first thing they do is look around to see others' reactions. If you turn out your lip and say, "Poor thing" and immediately sweep them up and make a huge deal out of it, chances are they will start to cry. Try instead, brushing it off and making it game like. When my little brother was younger and would fall, we would look at him raise our hands and say "Touchdown!" (he was a lover of sports:) ) Instead of crying and dwelling on the fall, he would get up and continue on playing as if nothing had happened. It's the innocence of childhood at it's finest. I've found the same thing true over this past year. Volunteers and friends are constantly coming and going. It is rare that a volunteer stays longer than 4-6 weeks; it's part of my reality this past year. I could dwell on the fact that another volunteer has come and gone and now I am sad that they are no longer here. I could have the constant mindset of "what if so and so was here? What would we be doing?" They're not here though, someone else is; I must make the most out of the time that I have with them. Then when they are headed back to their prospective home, I must not dwell on the past, but remember the good times we had together. Because of this, I have been able to make some good friends that I am sure I will stay in contact with.
This is true of any situation that you or I find ourselves in. I can look back over the course of the past few days, months, and years and come up with many things that have left me sad and not wanting to leave the moment. But it was inevitable; I didn't have a choice. Time went on. I took the time to remember the good things about the moment that I will forever cherish and went on creating more of these moments. If we constantly dwell on the past and on the sad moments of life, I believe we will be in for one of the most miserable life's possible. Instead, remember the happy moments of life so that you can continue to create more happy moments and lasting memories.
So what will you do? Get up and brush it off, or stay down and wait for the moment to reverse? Is your glass half empty or half full? That milk that spilled- is it really worth crying over, or should you just clean it up and get a new glass?
Have a blessed week! Miss you all but loving my experiences!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Sweet Summertime!
Well, summer is here full force! There is definitely no lack of heat here. Since I've been MIA for a bit, let me fill you in on the past month.
My golden birthday was the end of May so that brought with it several celebrations. First a celebration at the clinic, that evening a celebration with some wonderful friends on the island, the following night a delicious meal and party with another fellow birthday mate, and finally a week later, a cake from home! That's right, my mom sent me a cake via mail and it was delicious!
Following that week, Peggy returned to the states for 3 weeks of fundraising and vacation. Once again, that left me in charge of the clinic. This time around, it was much better. I was no longer new on the job (or in the profession for that matter), I knew how things ran, and people knew me. Much less stressful this way! Not only was I left with the clinic for the 3 weeks, but Peggy also left me with her phone for the 3 weeks. After a few days it didn't really ring all that much, but the times that it did it was usually someone asking for medical advice. After one of the calls I thought to myself, I almost feel like answering the phone as "Hello, ask a nurse" as my mom frequently does with us. It was also kind of nice having her phone because it is literally a phone book. Just about any number that you could possibly want for somebody on the island can be found in that phone. A common joke around the clinic was that Peggy's secret agenda was to get me accustomed to the clinic so much that I would just want to stay for another year or two. Nope, I don't think that's going to happen. I will definitely come back for a visit, but there are way to many things waiting for me at home right now.
Over the past several days I have been working on filling my passport up with stamps. I traveled to Costa Rica where I met up with Susan and Emily (2 of my roommates) and we hung out in the rainforests of Costa Rica in a town called Monteverde and then traveled to Panama and hung out in Panama City for a few more days. The rainforests were beautiful and I would have loved to stay in them longer, but time just didn't allow. One afternoon we did a tour of a coffee and sugar cane plantation and the other day we did a ziplining tour. Aside for the 12 cables that the canopy tour consisted of, there was also a superman one and a tarzan swing. The tarzan was almost like bungee jumping, but not quite (however, it was going to have to do since the others didn't think much of that). While in Costa Rica we got a little more than we bargained for by having a lost passport. This meant we got to make a trip to the Embassy to get a new one so that we could continue on our way to Panama. After the embassy we then walked around San Jose for the afternoon checking out what little there was to see. It was in San Jose that we saw the literal meaning of "living out of a box"; apparently it actually does happen! In Panama, we really took time to explore the city. Here, unlike San Jose, there was much to do in the city and it was full of history. One part is called "Panama Viejo" where all the old ruins are; another part is known as "Casco Viejo" where all the historic buildings are. And, if you didn't already know, this is also where the canal is! So of course, we went and checked out the locks, watched some boats pass through, and traveled from coast to coast- one direction by bus, the other by the Panama Railway, a nice little historic ride along the canal. We also took a nice little hike up through the nature park for a scenic overview of the city. During our final 7 hours (of 3 days) in Panama, it was also brought to our attention that they are not in the same time zone as Costa Rica. I must say, things start to make a lot more sense when you have the right time (such as places being open/closed, rush hour, etc...). From there we began our journey back to Costa Rica and from there I headed back to Honduras. All in all, our time on the buses and our time exploring equaled out to be about the same, but it was a wonderful trip and now I'm refreshed for the rest of my time here. If you would like to read more in depth about our travels, check out Susan's blog as she kept more of a daily update on our happenings! http://sasass1206.blogspot.com/
Pictures are being added to my Picasa Web account as I am typing this, so make sure to check those out. Or in the next few days they should be appearing on Facebook as well.
Today being the first day back after my vacation, brought with it a little bit of work, but for the most part things were kept quite well in order...so very exciting!! To top it all off, the joyful, excited greetings that I received as I walked in this morning from all the staff was amazing. It's great to be able to come back to work and feel the love from the people you work with- it lets you know just how much you are appreciated and that the job you are doing is where you are meant to be at that time.
My golden birthday was the end of May so that brought with it several celebrations. First a celebration at the clinic, that evening a celebration with some wonderful friends on the island, the following night a delicious meal and party with another fellow birthday mate, and finally a week later, a cake from home! That's right, my mom sent me a cake via mail and it was delicious!
Following that week, Peggy returned to the states for 3 weeks of fundraising and vacation. Once again, that left me in charge of the clinic. This time around, it was much better. I was no longer new on the job (or in the profession for that matter), I knew how things ran, and people knew me. Much less stressful this way! Not only was I left with the clinic for the 3 weeks, but Peggy also left me with her phone for the 3 weeks. After a few days it didn't really ring all that much, but the times that it did it was usually someone asking for medical advice. After one of the calls I thought to myself, I almost feel like answering the phone as "Hello, ask a nurse" as my mom frequently does with us. It was also kind of nice having her phone because it is literally a phone book. Just about any number that you could possibly want for somebody on the island can be found in that phone. A common joke around the clinic was that Peggy's secret agenda was to get me accustomed to the clinic so much that I would just want to stay for another year or two. Nope, I don't think that's going to happen. I will definitely come back for a visit, but there are way to many things waiting for me at home right now.
Over the past several days I have been working on filling my passport up with stamps. I traveled to Costa Rica where I met up with Susan and Emily (2 of my roommates) and we hung out in the rainforests of Costa Rica in a town called Monteverde and then traveled to Panama and hung out in Panama City for a few more days. The rainforests were beautiful and I would have loved to stay in them longer, but time just didn't allow. One afternoon we did a tour of a coffee and sugar cane plantation and the other day we did a ziplining tour. Aside for the 12 cables that the canopy tour consisted of, there was also a superman one and a tarzan swing. The tarzan was almost like bungee jumping, but not quite (however, it was going to have to do since the others didn't think much of that). While in Costa Rica we got a little more than we bargained for by having a lost passport. This meant we got to make a trip to the Embassy to get a new one so that we could continue on our way to Panama. After the embassy we then walked around San Jose for the afternoon checking out what little there was to see. It was in San Jose that we saw the literal meaning of "living out of a box"; apparently it actually does happen! In Panama, we really took time to explore the city. Here, unlike San Jose, there was much to do in the city and it was full of history. One part is called "Panama Viejo" where all the old ruins are; another part is known as "Casco Viejo" where all the historic buildings are. And, if you didn't already know, this is also where the canal is! So of course, we went and checked out the locks, watched some boats pass through, and traveled from coast to coast- one direction by bus, the other by the Panama Railway, a nice little historic ride along the canal. We also took a nice little hike up through the nature park for a scenic overview of the city. During our final 7 hours (of 3 days) in Panama, it was also brought to our attention that they are not in the same time zone as Costa Rica. I must say, things start to make a lot more sense when you have the right time (such as places being open/closed, rush hour, etc...). From there we began our journey back to Costa Rica and from there I headed back to Honduras. All in all, our time on the buses and our time exploring equaled out to be about the same, but it was a wonderful trip and now I'm refreshed for the rest of my time here. If you would like to read more in depth about our travels, check out Susan's blog as she kept more of a daily update on our happenings! http://sasass1206.blogspot.com/
Pictures are being added to my Picasa Web account as I am typing this, so make sure to check those out. Or in the next few days they should be appearing on Facebook as well.
Today being the first day back after my vacation, brought with it a little bit of work, but for the most part things were kept quite well in order...so very exciting!! To top it all off, the joyful, excited greetings that I received as I walked in this morning from all the staff was amazing. It's great to be able to come back to work and feel the love from the people you work with- it lets you know just how much you are appreciated and that the job you are doing is where you are meant to be at that time.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Hace Calor!
Translated? It's Hot! This has started to become a common phrase around these parts (unfortunately for those back home, I don't think it has!) Daily temperatures are now in the upper 80s and well into the 90s with humidity. Many people think the humidity is just terrible, but coming from a very humid place I don't think it's much different. The big difference? In the states we have access to AC everywhere. Therefore, once we start to break the slightest of sweats, we turn on the AC, start the fans, anything to instantly cool us off. Why? Because we don't stand the feeling of being hot, we hate to sweat, who know why else. Here however, most don't even have a fan, let alone AC. People can't go into the nearest store to cool off, because, well, most shops don't have AC either. Forget going to a restaurant to cool down and enjoy a meal. All restaurants are outdoors...and most have pets that pester you; but that's another story! So what do we do here when we get hot? Well, we sit as still as possible in hopes of not breaking a sweat (with my genes, that's not really a possibility!). If that doesn't work, we fan ourselves with a stack of papers, find the shade and hope there is a breeze, carry a little washcloth to wipe off the sweat, or just simply try to ignore the beads of sweat that are rolling off us! If all else fails, most locals will just jump right into the ocean...clothes and all! I must admit, I have taken part before (after I got done running), and man did it feel good!
For the past 2.5 weeks I have once again assumed the role of Miss Peggy, as she is spending some time in the states. This time, however, has gone significantly better than last. Well, I shouldn't say better, cause last time went well; this time there was much less stress. Last time I was brand new to nursing, brand new to Honduras, brand new to the clinic, and there I was supervising volunteers and running a clinic for 2 weeks. This time, I'm still doing the same, but with added responsibilities as well. Since Peggy's phone doesn't work in the states, it would have done her no good to take it with her; therefore, let's leave it with Laura! I must say I have been quite blessed and the phone hardly rings. When it does though, it's usually someone calling looking for a medical consult. As I told my mom the other night, I should start answering the phone, "Hello, ask a nurse, how can I help you?" In addition to the phone, a container from the states was shipped while she was away, so I have been assisting a little in getting that into the country. Speaking of which, I suppose I should check and see if it's gotten through customs and needs to be unloaded yet. Que mas? I routinely correspond with upcoming volunteers getting their questions answered and just yesterday I even got to go meet some people that had donations and wanted the spiel about the clinic. After these 3 weeks, I think I will have about earned the title of Miss Peggy, Jr. Scary thought!
With under 4 months left here, I have lots to look forward (some happy things, some sad) to in the upcoming months. First and foremost of course is celebrating my golden birthday in just 9 short days! Following that, I will be saying farewell to a group of teachers that have been here this year with me. I will be sad to see them go, but hopefully it won't be the last time I see some of them. Mid-June I travel to Costa Rice and Panama with two of my roommates from last year. Throughout the summer we have 2 different groups coming in to work on early childhood education among mothers of children 0-5. While they will be doing all the work, I look forward to what the classes will have to offer as this is something of great interest to me. July, my sister is looking at coming, and then after that I may have one more friend visiting before it is time to wrap things up for the year. In addition, I will continue working towards creating/putting together resources for future volunteers that come after me. Through all of this I will be looking into jobs for when I return and working on my application for grad school. Where has time gone?!
Thinking cool thoughts,
Laura
For the past 2.5 weeks I have once again assumed the role of Miss Peggy, as she is spending some time in the states. This time, however, has gone significantly better than last. Well, I shouldn't say better, cause last time went well; this time there was much less stress. Last time I was brand new to nursing, brand new to Honduras, brand new to the clinic, and there I was supervising volunteers and running a clinic for 2 weeks. This time, I'm still doing the same, but with added responsibilities as well. Since Peggy's phone doesn't work in the states, it would have done her no good to take it with her; therefore, let's leave it with Laura! I must say I have been quite blessed and the phone hardly rings. When it does though, it's usually someone calling looking for a medical consult. As I told my mom the other night, I should start answering the phone, "Hello, ask a nurse, how can I help you?" In addition to the phone, a container from the states was shipped while she was away, so I have been assisting a little in getting that into the country. Speaking of which, I suppose I should check and see if it's gotten through customs and needs to be unloaded yet. Que mas? I routinely correspond with upcoming volunteers getting their questions answered and just yesterday I even got to go meet some people that had donations and wanted the spiel about the clinic. After these 3 weeks, I think I will have about earned the title of Miss Peggy, Jr. Scary thought!
With under 4 months left here, I have lots to look forward (some happy things, some sad) to in the upcoming months. First and foremost of course is celebrating my golden birthday in just 9 short days! Following that, I will be saying farewell to a group of teachers that have been here this year with me. I will be sad to see them go, but hopefully it won't be the last time I see some of them. Mid-June I travel to Costa Rice and Panama with two of my roommates from last year. Throughout the summer we have 2 different groups coming in to work on early childhood education among mothers of children 0-5. While they will be doing all the work, I look forward to what the classes will have to offer as this is something of great interest to me. July, my sister is looking at coming, and then after that I may have one more friend visiting before it is time to wrap things up for the year. In addition, I will continue working towards creating/putting together resources for future volunteers that come after me. Through all of this I will be looking into jobs for when I return and working on my application for grad school. Where has time gone?!
Thinking cool thoughts,
Laura
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Footprints...in Roatan
The Lord replied, "My son, My precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."As you may or may not know, Footprints in the Sand is one of my favorite poems. Therefore, it seemed like a good analogy for the holidays around here. Holidays around home are special times for our family as we always gather together and celebrate with our siblings, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents. Unfortunately, being in Honduras makes it a little far to travel for a weekend. In thinking of the Footprints poem, these times would reference those times when there was suffering and struggling; the times when there was only one set of Footprints. Just as in the poem when the Lord carried you through these trials, I had family come here to spend the holidays with me. Christmas my parents came, New Years a few schoolmates came, Easter, my older brother Philip came. While he went through quite the journey to get down here, he finally made it, and we were able to share a week of vacation together. Two days we spent getting scuba certified (hmm, I wonder if I can put that on my resume under 'certifications'?!), went out east for a BBQ one day, had a potluck for Easter (complete with a spiral ham and turkey!), and spent a day at the clinic. What a blessing it has been to be able to "unexpectedly" spend the holidays with family. Upon coming down here, I knew of no plans for visitors. It has been amazing how God has blessed me over the last several months with visitors. While live is wonderful here, seeing familiar faces from time to time has been very nice!
Something that I continually find interesting is hearing the differing opinions of volunteers and visitors as they come to visit. Everybody has different previous experiences with poverty and mission work and with that they approach things differently. Poverty can be a hard concept to grasp and until you really start to work with people of poverty, live in their world for a time, and see how their every day lives run, you can't really fully understand all its intricacies. It's easy to read book after book about it, but it still seems different once you get placed in it and it is something that takes time to really grasp. Watching volunteer residents and students come from working in the states to working here is also something that is quite the concept. Working at the clinic I have started to learn what the big time meds are, which ones are more expensive, and which ones are more preferred by doctors in the states that have access to any medication they want. At the clinic, we only have access to a limited number of medications, usually based on what we get by donation. Therefore, prescribing conservatively is a little more important. Here you don't just give a medication to please a patient; here it is much more important to make sure the patient completely understands what they have and how medications help it (or don't). If they don't need a medication that they are seeking, we explain to them why they don't need it and more often than not, they are okay with that. Why can't people in the states be okay with that? Why must we have to do every knit-picky, sometimes unnecessary little thing just to avoid a lawsuit? It's things like this that will take some time to adjust to when I get back to the states.
Last week was Semana Santa here on the island (well technically everywhere I suppose :P ). For those of you that don't understand Spanish, that would be Holy Week. While many people may see it as a time of preparation, prayer, fasting, and remembrance of Jesus' death and resurrection, Semana Santa is more or less a holiday around these parts. Many tourists overtake the island- whether they come from the mainland (which most do) or from other parts of the world. West End is blocked off to cars and the beaches and resorts in West Bay are packed and out of control. From the reports that I have heard, things weren't quite as crazy this year as they have been in the past, but I still managed to avoid most of it. Can't really complain as I don't really relate Holy Week with party week. Since it is a 'holiday' around here, the clinic was closed all week so that meant a week of vacation to relax and not do a whole lot. Boy was that wonderful; just in time for me to gear up for the next 3 weeks while Peggy goes back to the states. What did Peggy leave me with this time (aside from the clinic)?! A 40ft container filled with donations for the clinic and the hospital. Luckily it is all sorted and labeled clinic or hospital so hopefully it shouldn't be all that bad- I'll let you know how it goes.
We're still waiting for the license for the upstairs so that has yet to be opened, but it is possible that we will be have a birth take place up there sometime this week. As time carries on, I continue to work on a training/orientation guide for the clinic so that whoever ends up following in my footsteps will have something more to go off than what I had. There is just so much information at the clinic that isn't recorded anywhere; it's only in people's heads. What happens when they leave? The information of course goes with them and no longer benefits the clinic. Therefore, hopefully this manual will help a little bit with that.
Weather is really starting to warm up around here getting into the upper 80's and 90's. Many people here complain (term used lightly) about how hot it is and how much they work up a sweat. However, I don't think it's usually really much worse than it is at home. I think the humidity at home is worse than it is here. When I tell people that they have a hard time believing me cause "there isn't humidity in South Dakota"; but oh yes, there is! I don't know where it comes from, but it's there!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Mayday, Mayday!!
Yesterday a group of us decided to head out to Hole in the Wall, a small little restaurant on the east end of the island. There was a boat arranged to take us, however, because of the strong east winds, traveling on the south side of the island was not going to be a good idea. Since the boat was already payed for we had the option of taking the boat anyways, not going, or taking a vehicle. But then, the suggestion was made that we should just take the boat along the north side of the island as far as we could and then get in a bus to cross over to the south side to get to the restaurant. That is what we decided to do. Here we are cruising along on this boat, inside the reef (dumb idea considering the depth finder kept alarming...but who am I to say anything?!), when all of a sudden we stop. Why? One of our motors went out- good thing we have 2! So we continue on down the coast when all of a sudden, in the middle of a bight surrounded by mangroves, the other motor goes out! What are we going to do?! It just so happened that another boat was passing by about this time. We flagged him down but of course he was carrying passangers that he needed to drop off. He assured us that he would be back to help us. An hour later we are still waiting. By this time, we are all well past hungry, our beer is gone, and we feel like we are either on Gilligans Island or a reality TV show. Danielle, another volunteer with me, looks at me and says "well, I have a peanut butter sandwich that we could each have a half of. Well, maybe we should wait a bit, who knows how long we will be here, we might want it later." It's about this time as well, that we start to give up hope that this guy is coming back for us, so a couple of the people on the boat try to get in contact with people they know that could come and pick us up. A few minutes later, the guy finally returns! We all transfer over into this guys boat, make it to shore where there is a bus waiting for us. By this time, it is now 3:00 (3hrs after setting out, 2 hrs longer than it was supposed to take!) and we are unsure if we will be able to make it to Hole in the Wall in time because they close at 4. It's going to take us almost that long to get there by bus, because we are out in the middle of nowhere, only accessible by dirt roads. We call ahead, he assures us they will stay open for us, so we set out to find food! While on this winding, bumpy, dirt road (that reminds us of an Indiana Jones ride), we attempt to enjoy a nice cold beer (easier said than done) and we are subjected to some of the prettiest views of the harbor. At about 4:00 we finally make it to Jonesville where we load a few Dory's and head out to the restaurant. One of the Dory's that we boarded was all decked out with various trinkets, life vests, life savers, a comfy chair for the driver, and a carpeted boat bottom! Luckily our patience paid off- awaiting for us were mashed potatoes, beans, coleslaw, fresh rye bread, all you can eat lobster, and rib eye steak (I believe). What a great meal we had. On our way home on the bus, I couldn't help but think about how it felt like I was back in high school traveling home from a sporting event or other school function/trip. By the end of the night, my tan had been successfully worked on, my stomach was full, and I was more than ready for a good night sleep!
After my slow, relaxing week at the clinic last week, with no new volunteers, I am well stocked with volunteers again. Today we welcomed another 5 volunteers that will be working with us for the next 3-4 weeks. Orientation for all of them seemed to go pretty well for all of them today, so hopefully we will have a good week. Tomorrow a Honduran pharmacist will be starting with us at the clinic as well, so that will keep me busy with training her and assisting her in finding her way around our pharmacy. With the addition of people to our team, it also means that people have left us as well. Emily, my nursing student went home this past weekend, so I am back to being the only full time nurse in the clinic, doing as many of the nursing responsibilities as physically possible. The person that used to keep our consult rooms and store room all cleaned and stocked, also decided today that she doesn't want to do it anymore. Therefore, one more thing for me to either do or find people to do. Hopefully this will be something that I can get some of the Honduran staff to help me with. In order for this to be "their" clinic, there are things that they should be responsible for (with the help of others of course). That being said, they need to be taught/informed of what all needs to be done, as some of the stuff has just always been done by volunteers and they haven't been responsible for.
Today also marks 6.5 months that I have been here- wow, it seems like forever ago that I got here! I am still enjoying myself and everyday I am finding ways to keep life intersting. There is still plenty that I am learning and scenarios that touch my heart regularily. Last week and this week, I am house/cat sitting for someone that is off island for 2 weeks. Being the huge pet person that I am (*note sarcasm), there are 5 cats that I must attend to, one of which has diabetes and must get an insulin shot every morning. Needless to say, I am still no more of a pet person than I was before. I could definitely make it through life without have anymore pets and wouldn't be the least bit disappointed. But, they are still all alive and accounted for so I guess I am doing better than I usually do when left alone with Peggy's- haha! The weather is really heating up around here lately. Over the past week or so we have had temps in the upper 80's with heat indexes in the 90's. And to think it's only going to get warmer! I could use some of that snow that you guys have extra of right about now!
Peace and Love to all my family and friends at home!
Laura
After my slow, relaxing week at the clinic last week, with no new volunteers, I am well stocked with volunteers again. Today we welcomed another 5 volunteers that will be working with us for the next 3-4 weeks. Orientation for all of them seemed to go pretty well for all of them today, so hopefully we will have a good week. Tomorrow a Honduran pharmacist will be starting with us at the clinic as well, so that will keep me busy with training her and assisting her in finding her way around our pharmacy. With the addition of people to our team, it also means that people have left us as well. Emily, my nursing student went home this past weekend, so I am back to being the only full time nurse in the clinic, doing as many of the nursing responsibilities as physically possible. The person that used to keep our consult rooms and store room all cleaned and stocked, also decided today that she doesn't want to do it anymore. Therefore, one more thing for me to either do or find people to do. Hopefully this will be something that I can get some of the Honduran staff to help me with. In order for this to be "their" clinic, there are things that they should be responsible for (with the help of others of course). That being said, they need to be taught/informed of what all needs to be done, as some of the stuff has just always been done by volunteers and they haven't been responsible for.
Today also marks 6.5 months that I have been here- wow, it seems like forever ago that I got here! I am still enjoying myself and everyday I am finding ways to keep life intersting. There is still plenty that I am learning and scenarios that touch my heart regularily. Last week and this week, I am house/cat sitting for someone that is off island for 2 weeks. Being the huge pet person that I am (*note sarcasm), there are 5 cats that I must attend to, one of which has diabetes and must get an insulin shot every morning. Needless to say, I am still no more of a pet person than I was before. I could definitely make it through life without have anymore pets and wouldn't be the least bit disappointed. But, they are still all alive and accounted for so I guess I am doing better than I usually do when left alone with Peggy's- haha! The weather is really heating up around here lately. Over the past week or so we have had temps in the upper 80's with heat indexes in the 90's. And to think it's only going to get warmer! I could use some of that snow that you guys have extra of right about now!
Peace and Love to all my family and friends at home!
Laura
Saturday, March 26, 2011
When it rains, it pours!
Literally and figuratively, when something comes to Roatan, it doesn't come lightly. When it rains, typically it isn't just a light little rain shower for a couple hours. Rain last at least the day if not into the next day or two. The aftermath of a rain shower usually involves mud puddles for about a week (unless of course we get a nice warm day afterward). When donations come to the clinic, we never just get one little shopping bag. Many times we see donations come by the suitcase-full. These suitcases don't come from just one volunteer, but several. So yes, with all these donations there are typically many volunteers in the clinic at the same time. Just like when we experience a dry spell from rain, we also experience dry spells from volunteers and donations. Sometimes, these dry spells don't seem to come frequently enough. Not that we don't appreciate donations and volunteers; it just means that we constantly have work awaiting us, and new people to orient to the clinic. Keeps us busy!
Over about the past two months, we have had several volunteers in every week and with them came suitcases full of donations. Could these people have been fleeing the cold? I think so! Now that we have just about reached the end of March, we have sent most of our current volunteers home and this weekend we are only getting 1 or 2 more volunteers in. This week (and hopefully another one or two after it) should be a quite week in the clinic- our "drought". Therefore, while we had lots of donations to sort through and many people to direct, it was important to remain thankful. These donations could be stocking us up for the next several months as it seems the people that come down for the summer come for longer stints than the students that come for 4-6 weeks at a time.
Outside of the clinic, we have spent a lot of time lately just hanging out. During March, there was a group of about 10 of us; we could sit around all night and just have a great time. Unfortunately, most of them all had to leave this weekend :( The weather is slowly getting warmer and warmer; today the temp was in the upper 80's, warm and sunny! In case any of you are concerned, my tan is coming along quite wonderfully ;) Since people were going to the airport throughout the day today, we decided to just stick around the house and spend some quality time out on the dock; tomorrow will probably be similar, but we will be down on the beach in West Bay. Whoa is me, my weekends are so rough!
Yesterday, we went out to the east end of the island where there was a thank-you BBQ for a group of Stanford students that were here on spring break. Over the course of the week they helped establish some vacation bible schools and they repainted the ER in the hospital. This BBQ was complete with singers and 2 groups of Garifuna dancers. What a cultural night we had- it was spectacular!
Last week I went to a meeting about double-dutch jump roping down the road at the Sand Castle Library with some island kids. What I thought was just going to be an information meeting was actually me deciding on a day of the week that would work to teach these kids how to double-dutch. That's right, I am now a double-dutch coach. I didn't know that I was qualified for that but apparently I am. See you at practice on Wednesdays!
Over about the past two months, we have had several volunteers in every week and with them came suitcases full of donations. Could these people have been fleeing the cold? I think so! Now that we have just about reached the end of March, we have sent most of our current volunteers home and this weekend we are only getting 1 or 2 more volunteers in. This week (and hopefully another one or two after it) should be a quite week in the clinic- our "drought". Therefore, while we had lots of donations to sort through and many people to direct, it was important to remain thankful. These donations could be stocking us up for the next several months as it seems the people that come down for the summer come for longer stints than the students that come for 4-6 weeks at a time.
Outside of the clinic, we have spent a lot of time lately just hanging out. During March, there was a group of about 10 of us; we could sit around all night and just have a great time. Unfortunately, most of them all had to leave this weekend :( The weather is slowly getting warmer and warmer; today the temp was in the upper 80's, warm and sunny! In case any of you are concerned, my tan is coming along quite wonderfully ;) Since people were going to the airport throughout the day today, we decided to just stick around the house and spend some quality time out on the dock; tomorrow will probably be similar, but we will be down on the beach in West Bay. Whoa is me, my weekends are so rough!
Yesterday, we went out to the east end of the island where there was a thank-you BBQ for a group of Stanford students that were here on spring break. Over the course of the week they helped establish some vacation bible schools and they repainted the ER in the hospital. This BBQ was complete with singers and 2 groups of Garifuna dancers. What a cultural night we had- it was spectacular!
Last week I went to a meeting about double-dutch jump roping down the road at the Sand Castle Library with some island kids. What I thought was just going to be an information meeting was actually me deciding on a day of the week that would work to teach these kids how to double-dutch. That's right, I am now a double-dutch coach. I didn't know that I was qualified for that but apparently I am. See you at practice on Wednesdays!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
40 Days and 40 Nights
The season of Lent is upon us. Since I have more time down here than I've ever had in the states, I sometimes tend to question things or think about things more. So naturally, with the beginning of Lent, I thought, historically, what is all behind the season of Lent. Was it originally more than just a waiting and preparing time for the death of Jesus or were there other things done during this time? Therefore, prepare yourself for a little history lesson.
The word Lent comes from two different Anglo-Saxon words that mean "spring" and "March". There has always been some form of Lenten preparation before Easter, it has just varied by how many days and/or hours. It sounds as though there was some confusion as to whether it was supposed to be 40 hours or 40 days....something lost in translation (don't I know the feeling sometime, haha). So, by the end of the 4th century is has been decided that Lent is a time of prayer and fasting in preparation for the death and rising of Jesus that would last 40 days. However, 40 days has been translated into many things over the years as well. Depending on where you lived, determined how much fasting you did. Some fasted for 40 days but only Monday through Friday; therefore, Lent lasted for 8 weeks. Others fasted for 40 days but fasted on Saturday as well and therefore Lent only lasted 6 weeks. So a consensus was reached; fasting would take place Monday-Saturday for 6 weeks and with the addition of Ash Wednesday as the beginning of Lent, there were 40 days of fasting before Easter. The next big question was what do we fast from? In some areas they fasting from any meat and animal products while others made exceptions for things like fish. Over time, it was decided that fish would be allowed and fasting only had to take place on Ash Wednesday and Fridays. The part about fasting from animal products was also dropped so people could have dairy and what have you. the interesting thing though is that Easter eggs first started to be blessed because of the fact that dairy/animal products were not allowed during Lent. Now that everything is sorted out, the way practices stand today is this: Fasting occurs on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, abstaining from meat happens on Fridays. People give up something during lent as a sacrifice and often are encouraged to perform a spiritual work. According to the site I read, technically Sundays and solemnities (Feast of St. Joseph and Annunciation) aren't included and therefore you can have whatever you gave up. (http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/religion/re0527.html) However, you might as well just tough it out; Jesus wasn't given any days off, so why should we take a day off?
As we begin this time of preparation for the death and rising of our Lord, think about how you are preparing yourself during this time. What sacrifices can you make? What spiritual practices have you strayed away from or sloughed off on lately that could be picked back up? Are you ready for judgment day if it were to come today or tomorrow? I encourage you to join me in thinking about these things and preparing yourself for judgment day just as Jesus did during his 40 days and 40 nights in the desert. We never know when our time will come.
Happy Lent!
The word Lent comes from two different Anglo-Saxon words that mean "spring" and "March". There has always been some form of Lenten preparation before Easter, it has just varied by how many days and/or hours. It sounds as though there was some confusion as to whether it was supposed to be 40 hours or 40 days....something lost in translation (don't I know the feeling sometime, haha). So, by the end of the 4th century is has been decided that Lent is a time of prayer and fasting in preparation for the death and rising of Jesus that would last 40 days. However, 40 days has been translated into many things over the years as well. Depending on where you lived, determined how much fasting you did. Some fasted for 40 days but only Monday through Friday; therefore, Lent lasted for 8 weeks. Others fasted for 40 days but fasted on Saturday as well and therefore Lent only lasted 6 weeks. So a consensus was reached; fasting would take place Monday-Saturday for 6 weeks and with the addition of Ash Wednesday as the beginning of Lent, there were 40 days of fasting before Easter. The next big question was what do we fast from? In some areas they fasting from any meat and animal products while others made exceptions for things like fish. Over time, it was decided that fish would be allowed and fasting only had to take place on Ash Wednesday and Fridays. The part about fasting from animal products was also dropped so people could have dairy and what have you. the interesting thing though is that Easter eggs first started to be blessed because of the fact that dairy/animal products were not allowed during Lent. Now that everything is sorted out, the way practices stand today is this: Fasting occurs on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, abstaining from meat happens on Fridays. People give up something during lent as a sacrifice and often are encouraged to perform a spiritual work. According to the site I read, technically Sundays and solemnities (Feast of St. Joseph and Annunciation) aren't included and therefore you can have whatever you gave up. (http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/religion/re0527.html) However, you might as well just tough it out; Jesus wasn't given any days off, so why should we take a day off?
As we begin this time of preparation for the death and rising of our Lord, think about how you are preparing yourself during this time. What sacrifices can you make? What spiritual practices have you strayed away from or sloughed off on lately that could be picked back up? Are you ready for judgment day if it were to come today or tomorrow? I encourage you to join me in thinking about these things and preparing yourself for judgment day just as Jesus did during his 40 days and 40 nights in the desert. We never know when our time will come.
Happy Lent!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Only in Roatan
Here I am, six months in; halfway done! I can count down instead of up now! Things are still going wonderfully, but the island is starting to wear on me. There is only so much one can take of living on an island 30 miles long and 4-5 miles wide with no where to go...even if some people would consider it "paradise".
Time at the clinic is continually passing, yet one day seems to run into the next. We are now at the point of licensing for the upstairs, so that is exciting. Last week we had the pre-inspection and we got an 81% (or 25 things missing out of 132)- not bad considering the things that we need to fix are things like putting a light bulb in a lamp, move some reflex hammers and tape measures from downstairs to upstairs, and hang a blood pressure cuff on the wall. As of last I heard, grand opening is set for March 31st, but that will of course all depend on when we are licensed- could be sooner, could be later, no one really can tell. We all survived the busy month of February with 10-20 volunteers every week, so now we should all be pros for the roughly 30 people we have this week! Luckily, 13 of those are in one group and they are going to be doing outreach in the community so we won't have to juggle them through the clinic. Sometimes, I just have to keep reminding me that what doesn't kill me can only makes me stronger; not gonna lie, running a volunteer staffed clinic is A LOT of work, probably something I won't be doing again in the near future :p Regardless of how much work it has been, my time so far has been wonderful and I am continually learning something new every day.
Since I've been here 6 months, I figure I might as well share with you some of the things that I have found strange, peculiar, random, out of place, rare, funny, or just down right ridiculous.
Buenas Noches!
Laura
Time at the clinic is continually passing, yet one day seems to run into the next. We are now at the point of licensing for the upstairs, so that is exciting. Last week we had the pre-inspection and we got an 81% (or 25 things missing out of 132)- not bad considering the things that we need to fix are things like putting a light bulb in a lamp, move some reflex hammers and tape measures from downstairs to upstairs, and hang a blood pressure cuff on the wall. As of last I heard, grand opening is set for March 31st, but that will of course all depend on when we are licensed- could be sooner, could be later, no one really can tell. We all survived the busy month of February with 10-20 volunteers every week, so now we should all be pros for the roughly 30 people we have this week! Luckily, 13 of those are in one group and they are going to be doing outreach in the community so we won't have to juggle them through the clinic. Sometimes, I just have to keep reminding me that what doesn't kill me can only makes me stronger; not gonna lie, running a volunteer staffed clinic is A LOT of work, probably something I won't be doing again in the near future :p Regardless of how much work it has been, my time so far has been wonderful and I am continually learning something new every day.
Since I've been here 6 months, I figure I might as well share with you some of the things that I have found strange, peculiar, random, out of place, rare, funny, or just down right ridiculous.
- Only in Roatan, are you able to be driving down the road when the car in front of you completely loses the 2 front tires; and if they had continued further, probably would have lost the back two.
- Only in Roatan, would you find me in my pj's at 7:00 some nights and in bed by 9:30 other nights.
- Only in Roatan, does the hospital ER shut down for a few weeks.
- Only in Roatan, can you work with in a developing, 3rd world nation on the weekdays, yet spend your weekends in "paradise" on the white sandy beaches.
- Only in Roatan, do you have to wear bug spray in a screened in house to avoid getting bug bites.
- Only in Roatan, are scooters made for 4 people.
- Only in Roatan, is it normal to see someone walking around with a machete.
- Only in Roatan, do you have power outages weekly, just because.
- Only in Roatan, would you find the city filling potholes the day of a triathlon, which has a course using that road.
- Only in Roatan, is a blood sugar of 2 or 300 not alarming.
- Only in Roatan, does is cost 70 L ($3.50) to deliver a baby and 300 L ($15.00) for a hysterectomy.
- Only in Roatan, would a clinic focused on treating/managing diabetes and hypertension have someone selling chips, pop, fried pastelitas, and baleadas (flour tortillas with beans) out front on the porch.
- Only in Roatan, would I "train" for a triathlon the day before the race which happens to be an Olympic qualifying course, and one of the top 6 most difficult courses at that!
- Only in Roatan, an island only 30 miles long, would you find a Wendy's, ACE Hardware, and Applebee's.
Buenas Noches!
Laura
Monday, February 28, 2011
Keeping the Faith
Over the past week I got to make my second trip off the island. This time, I only went as far as La Ceiba (where the ferry takes us) where I worked with a mission group from Texas. For the past several years, this mission group has been coming down to Honduras to work for a week with an Episcopal Church. Part of the group works with tutoring the school children, another group works with medical and eye glasses, and the third part of the group works on construction projects. Myself and 3 other volunteers from Roatan worked with the medical team of course. Everyday began with breakfast at 6:30, followed by morning prayer before we all headed out our seperate ways. Tuesday through Thursday, we spent the mornings working in the clinic with the Honduran doctor that is always there. Dr. Silvio Azure typically sees around 80 patients a week; so anywhere around 20 patients a day. Upon walking into the clinic the first day, I was rather taken aback.
There was next to nothing in this clinic. There was an open room that served as their waiting room but there was nothing more than a bench on each side of the room for patients to sit on. Behind the front desk was not only the files, the bathroom, and the admission area, but the triage area as well. Triaging consisted of taking a blood pressure, weight, and tempurature. No chief complaints were gathered, no blood sugar was checked for diabetics, no pulse or pulse oxygenation levels were gathered. And although the temperature was taken, every temp was either 36 or 37 Celsius- even if they had a fever! The consult rooms had just about as much- an exam table, a desk, and a couple chairs. There were a few medical supplies but if there was something you actually needed, chances are it wouldn't be there. The pharmacy had a smattering of medications, but of course, it lacked many as we waiting all week for the ordered medications to be released from customs. The "lab" consisted of a chair used as a desk and another chair for the patient to sit in along side the pharmacy out in the hallway. The clinic had a storage room, but the supplies that were in there were mainly eyeglasses. With very little to work with, I must say, I actually thoroughly enjoyed my time spent in this clinic. It was very much serving the poor in a location that wasn't all ritzy yet had the essentials to be able to treat these patients adequately and appropriately. While the clinic lacked in many of the medical/technological advances that are now seen in the health care field in the US, it focused on treating the root causes of the problems (such as nutrition, lifestyle, etc) and left the rest up to God. These people search out medical treatment but they still keep sight of their faith; for some of these people faith is all they have, but that is enough for them. This was enhanced even more when we went out to a village, La Linea, on Thursday afternoon to do a health clinic.
One of the guys that we treated came to us with a problem of not being able to make a fist with one hand because of a machete wound he suffered 5 or 6 years ago. He was asking us about whether there was a surgery or medications we could give him to correct it. I had to tell him there were no meds other than some pain pills that we could give him. I told him they could do an operation to fix his tendons but that was about it. His response was that he is a poor man and surgery is expensive, is there nothing else he/we can do? Once again I reiterated that surgery was all that could be done. Then he wanted to know the likelihood of the surgery actually helping his hand- would he still be able to work out at the plantation? You see, his first three fingers worked fairly well, they were just a bit weak. His 4th and 5th fingers however, were straight, unable to be bend due to tendon damage. Since his accident happened such a long time ago, he would most likely need a tendon graft done as well because the tendons have permanently shortened. After surgery there would be no guarantee that his hand would be all that much better. So I told him that surgery was possible but probably not available in Honduras and it would be a complicated surgery. His reply was that we would just have to pray to God for strength. I replied, yes, for now all we can do is take meds to control any pain and pray to God for help. He thanked us and was on his way. Wow! Even people with little to nothing, having difficulty working due to injury still have faith in God. Can we say the same thing? Would we have this same faith or would we have given up on Him long before? It's in situations like this that I am reassured that there are people that still have faith and trust in God. They don't give up easily just because something didn't happen in their favor. If only more people could see things like this and gain renewed strength and faith in God- even through the hard times. Then as we were getting ready to leave, he came up to me and asked if I could take a picture of us. Even though he would never see me again, and never get the picture, I believe he wanted me to have a picture of us so that I could remember our encounter for years to come. What a great day it was!
So, while almost everyone on the mission group as well as the 3 I traveled with spent a day or two of their time with Montezuma's revenge, I was able to enjoy my week full force and really soak up the work that god was doing in this community. Not only did I work with the medical team, but I learned a little more advanced way of fitting people for eyeglasses using foropters and constructing glasses to test for astigmatisms and the whole shpeal. So I guess, if nursing fails, I can always take up optometry! Working with this mission group allowed me to see what it's like working with a community that is very accepting of a short term mission team coming in and working with them. Oh how I cannot wait to do more mission trips in the future. Therefore, at the rate I'm going, I should probably come to appreciate the letters d-e-b-t as I will be seeing them for quite some time! Save your change folks, it could get you far someday.
Peace and Love to all those at home!!
Laura
There was next to nothing in this clinic. There was an open room that served as their waiting room but there was nothing more than a bench on each side of the room for patients to sit on. Behind the front desk was not only the files, the bathroom, and the admission area, but the triage area as well. Triaging consisted of taking a blood pressure, weight, and tempurature. No chief complaints were gathered, no blood sugar was checked for diabetics, no pulse or pulse oxygenation levels were gathered. And although the temperature was taken, every temp was either 36 or 37 Celsius- even if they had a fever! The consult rooms had just about as much- an exam table, a desk, and a couple chairs. There were a few medical supplies but if there was something you actually needed, chances are it wouldn't be there. The pharmacy had a smattering of medications, but of course, it lacked many as we waiting all week for the ordered medications to be released from customs. The "lab" consisted of a chair used as a desk and another chair for the patient to sit in along side the pharmacy out in the hallway. The clinic had a storage room, but the supplies that were in there were mainly eyeglasses. With very little to work with, I must say, I actually thoroughly enjoyed my time spent in this clinic. It was very much serving the poor in a location that wasn't all ritzy yet had the essentials to be able to treat these patients adequately and appropriately. While the clinic lacked in many of the medical/technological advances that are now seen in the health care field in the US, it focused on treating the root causes of the problems (such as nutrition, lifestyle, etc) and left the rest up to God. These people search out medical treatment but they still keep sight of their faith; for some of these people faith is all they have, but that is enough for them. This was enhanced even more when we went out to a village, La Linea, on Thursday afternoon to do a health clinic.
So, while almost everyone on the mission group as well as the 3 I traveled with spent a day or two of their time with Montezuma's revenge, I was able to enjoy my week full force and really soak up the work that god was doing in this community. Not only did I work with the medical team, but I learned a little more advanced way of fitting people for eyeglasses using foropters and constructing glasses to test for astigmatisms and the whole shpeal. So I guess, if nursing fails, I can always take up optometry! Working with this mission group allowed me to see what it's like working with a community that is very accepting of a short term mission team coming in and working with them. Oh how I cannot wait to do more mission trips in the future. Therefore, at the rate I'm going, I should probably come to appreciate the letters d-e-b-t as I will be seeing them for quite some time! Save your change folks, it could get you far someday.
Peace and Love to all those at home!!
Laura
Monday, February 14, 2011
True Meanings
It seems like we are constantly celebrating one holiday or another. But, are we really celebrating the holiday or are we celebrating the commercialism that comes with the holiday? Most of the holidays have come and gone without me even knowing that they were coming. If it weren't for the fact that I know the date in which holidays fall, I probably would be none the wiser as to whether it was a holiday or not. Being removed from all the commercialism associated with any given holiday has made me realize that there is much more to the holidays. Today is Valentine's Day. Do any of us really know the history behind this day? Why do we send people cards; was St. Valentine known for something associated with love or why do we associate the holiday with that? Since many of you are probably too busy to really sit down and look into the history behind Valentine's Day, allow me to enlighten you.
Not only is there one person known as St. Valentine, but 3. One was a priest, one a bishop, and the other is heard of only vaguely. All three of these men were martyrs of the church, and all are remembered on February 14th, but none of them really have any direct relation to the holiday in which we celebrate. The holiday in which is celebrated today is because of a reference made by the poet Geoffrey Chaucer in his poem Parliament of Foules. In one stanza he writes, "For this was sent on Saint Valentine's Day, When every foul cometh there to choose his mate." Because of this reference, people started to associate St. Valentine's Day with a day for couples to celebrate- to send love letters and tokens of love to one another. The reason for this reference in Chaucer's poem is because it was a common belief in England and France during the middle ages that toward the middle of the second month of the year, birds would begin to choose their mates. (referenced from NewAdvent.com) While North American's celebrate with candy, cards, and roses on February 14th, other countries have varying days and ways of celebrating. Of course, just like many other holidays, Valentine's Day is considered an American culture. Some countries refer to the holiday as Friend's Day (when you recognize all of your friends, instead of just lovers), others refer to it as Lover's Day, Day of Love and Friendship, or All Heart's Day. One tradition that I found to be rather interesting was that of South Korea's. On February 14th, women give chocolate to men; March 14th, men give non-chocolate gifts to women. On April 14th, those that received nothing on either of the two previous 14th's go to a Chinese restaurant and eat black noodles. Also in Korea, the 14th of every month is celebrated in some manor to reflect a lover's holiday: Candle Day, Valentine's Day, White Day, Black Day, Rose Day, Kiss Day, Silver Day, Green Day, Music Day, Wine Day, Movie Day, and Hug Day. Those could be fun celebrations :) (info from wikipedia).
And there you have it folks, the source of Valentine's Day and its many traditions. Now that you know where it comes from, feel free to go out and celebrate in whatever way you see fit. As for me, I'm going to sit inside and enjoy the rain. Happy Valentine's Day to all my loved ones- family and friends!
xoxo,
Laura
Not only is there one person known as St. Valentine, but 3. One was a priest, one a bishop, and the other is heard of only vaguely. All three of these men were martyrs of the church, and all are remembered on February 14th, but none of them really have any direct relation to the holiday in which we celebrate. The holiday in which is celebrated today is because of a reference made by the poet Geoffrey Chaucer in his poem Parliament of Foules. In one stanza he writes, "For this was sent on Saint Valentine's Day, When every foul cometh there to choose his mate." Because of this reference, people started to associate St. Valentine's Day with a day for couples to celebrate- to send love letters and tokens of love to one another. The reason for this reference in Chaucer's poem is because it was a common belief in England and France during the middle ages that toward the middle of the second month of the year, birds would begin to choose their mates. (referenced from NewAdvent.com) While North American's celebrate with candy, cards, and roses on February 14th, other countries have varying days and ways of celebrating. Of course, just like many other holidays, Valentine's Day is considered an American culture. Some countries refer to the holiday as Friend's Day (when you recognize all of your friends, instead of just lovers), others refer to it as Lover's Day, Day of Love and Friendship, or All Heart's Day. One tradition that I found to be rather interesting was that of South Korea's. On February 14th, women give chocolate to men; March 14th, men give non-chocolate gifts to women. On April 14th, those that received nothing on either of the two previous 14th's go to a Chinese restaurant and eat black noodles. Also in Korea, the 14th of every month is celebrated in some manor to reflect a lover's holiday: Candle Day, Valentine's Day, White Day, Black Day, Rose Day, Kiss Day, Silver Day, Green Day, Music Day, Wine Day, Movie Day, and Hug Day. Those could be fun celebrations :) (info from wikipedia).
And there you have it folks, the source of Valentine's Day and its many traditions. Now that you know where it comes from, feel free to go out and celebrate in whatever way you see fit. As for me, I'm going to sit inside and enjoy the rain. Happy Valentine's Day to all my loved ones- family and friends!
xoxo,
Laura
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
All systems go!
Wow! Almost 5 months in, my body has fully adjusted and worked out its problems, the weather is getting nicer, the days are getting longer, and I once again enjoy being outside without fear of mosquitoes and 'cold'. Lately I've been able to go snorkeling a number of times without freezing as soon as I got in the water (in which case, I would have opted out of snorkeling). Along with the numerous amounts of fish, I have seen an octopus, king crab, sea snake, sea cucumber, starfish, and have been able to play with dolphins! Poco a poco, the sun is staying up a few minutes longer and we see more sunlight in the day.
More and more volunteers are streaming into the clinic, so there are more hands to do things, therefore making my work even lighter--plus I have a student nurse! It's great. Today we went out to an isolated community on the island to do an outreach clinic. There were a fair number of moms and children, but other than pain, parasite/worm treatment, and a couple cases of chicken pox, we didn't see anything too exciting...that is, except for some amazing views! In the process, I also saw Hottest Sparrow. This is another small, isolated community, that is very difficult to access--yet this is where the 3 children were from that I wrote about back from when my parents were here. After the outreach clinic today, we did a health screening at the SOL Foundation, which is an after school program for children. Therefore, for 3 hours we measured the height and weight of children....way to long! (especially since we had just spent the past 8 hours in the clinic and on the outreach clinic) Oh well, we got them all taken care of and were able to pinpoint the kids that are below the average for height and weight.
In a week and a half, I will be making a trek over to La Ceiba to help with a medical brigade that will be coming for a week. It will be a great change of pace for a bit and a new population of people to work with. More to come following my week there....stay tuned ;)
For all of you suffering from feet and feet of snow, I thought you would like to know that with the longer hours of sun (and the warmer days), my tan is coming along quite nicely...unfortunately, I really only get to work on it over the weekends since the sun is no longer very good by the time we are done with clinic. Oh well, such be the life! Not much else is new around here, so I will leave you with that...maybe next time I can write something a bit more inspirational....I'll think on it for all of you :)
My thoughts and prayers are with you all!
Laura
More and more volunteers are streaming into the clinic, so there are more hands to do things, therefore making my work even lighter--plus I have a student nurse! It's great. Today we went out to an isolated community on the island to do an outreach clinic. There were a fair number of moms and children, but other than pain, parasite/worm treatment, and a couple cases of chicken pox, we didn't see anything too exciting...that is, except for some amazing views! In the process, I also saw Hottest Sparrow. This is another small, isolated community, that is very difficult to access--yet this is where the 3 children were from that I wrote about back from when my parents were here. After the outreach clinic today, we did a health screening at the SOL Foundation, which is an after school program for children. Therefore, for 3 hours we measured the height and weight of children....way to long! (especially since we had just spent the past 8 hours in the clinic and on the outreach clinic) Oh well, we got them all taken care of and were able to pinpoint the kids that are below the average for height and weight.
In a week and a half, I will be making a trek over to La Ceiba to help with a medical brigade that will be coming for a week. It will be a great change of pace for a bit and a new population of people to work with. More to come following my week there....stay tuned ;)
For all of you suffering from feet and feet of snow, I thought you would like to know that with the longer hours of sun (and the warmer days), my tan is coming along quite nicely...unfortunately, I really only get to work on it over the weekends since the sun is no longer very good by the time we are done with clinic. Oh well, such be the life! Not much else is new around here, so I will leave you with that...maybe next time I can write something a bit more inspirational....I'll think on it for all of you :)
My thoughts and prayers are with you all!
Laura
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Winner, Winner!
Wow, it seems like forever since I have blogged, but don't worry I am still alive and doing well! So, fasten your seatbelts folks, and let me get you up to speed on life in Honduras!
Since the new year, things have started to pick up around the clinic. During the month of January, we have had 4-5 residents every week working with us int he clinic. We have had a couple visiting doctors as well as a few other volunteers. With the increase of volunteers in the clinic, it has brought with it an increase of patients. Over the past couple weeks we have been seeing 40-65 patients! Fortunately for us (not so fortunate for the patient), it hasn't just been an increase in number of patients, but we have also gotten to see and do some new and interesting things. For instance, we saw a lady with a blood sugar of "hi". Now when this comes up on a glucometer, you know it's bad. "Normal" blood sugar is 60-110; it says "hi" once it's over 600! Over the past few months we have been working to control this lady's diabetes, so it didn't really surprise me all that much. So what did we do for her? I, yes, that would be me, put in an IV...my first ever! Man, did I ever master that IV- got it on my first try! Now this wasn't just any IV start, this was an IV start on a lady that was dehydrated and had no veins....makes for just a bit harder of a stick, but I conquered it none the less! However, I must say, it was probably to her advantage that she couldn't understand us as I was walked through putting in an IV....something about that wouldn't comfort me all that much :p Along with that, we have seen a few results of moto accidents, I have started not one, but two IV's successfully, we are making headway on our upstairs in hopes of opening in April, we are tightening our bootstraps for the boat load of volunteers we are going to be seeing throughout the month of February, plus starting to get out into the community more with health fairs and presentations.
Over the past few weeks we have gone up into the Colonia a few times in order to hold health fairs. During these health fairs we check people's weight (as many/most do not have scales and/or know what they weigh), blood sugar, blood pressure, and screen for HIV. If we run across something that needs further evaluation, we refer them to the clinic, making sure to tell them that if they cannot afford it we will see them anyways. This is often times what holds people back from coming in the first place. Many do not realize that we will see them even if they cannot pay. That is one beauty of the clinic and the excellent health care we provide. Unlike in the states, everyone gets quality health care (at the clinic that is), regardless of their ability to pay and without having worries about insurance. Besides the health fair, we also did a women's health class in the Colonia. Although I did not attend, I hear it was a great success and well accepted....we will definately need to get more of those going.
Last week, we also took a field trip into the Colonia in order to deliver a dozen backpacks and school clothes. There are two families of 8 or 9 living in a house about the size of a nice bathroom maybe. It is unreal what you see when going up into the Colonia--it never ceases to amaze me! 3,000 people living up on the hillside in which they have to walk up steep, steep hills to get to there homes while carrying a small child, propane tank, supplies, food, etc. Many don't have work outside the house and many of the kids do not go to school. What gets me everytime, though, is walking past houses that have cable tv or the number of people that have cell phones and talk on them constantly but can't afford food. What has technology come too? Has it really consumed our life that much that it is more important to us than food and shelter? Sometimes, I think that is definately the case, and it is really quite sad and almost pathetic! Think about all the technology in your life. How do you compare? What are your priorities--the here and now or the cyper, technological "galaxy"?
I know what people are really waiting to hear about is the rumored triathalon I was in. That's right, I was part of a triatholon this past weekend. You didn't know I was training for one? Oh wait, that's because I didn't! haha Yup, cold turkey in the Bay Island Triathalon and my relay team took 1st! While some may not think going cold turkey is all that terrible, let me paint you a little picture. The bike portion (which I did) was 5 miles on hilly terrain. Yes, 14%, 18%, and 20 %, grade hills...for those of you unfamiliar with grading (you're not alone)...but that is practically straight up for all I'm concerned. Apparently "normal" grade for a hill is right around 8%. So yes, these hills covered about a third of the course. The course here on Roatan is one of the top 5 hardest courses....in the world! Future olympic athletes come to compete for points to get them into the olympics. That's right....I was racing with olympic athletes! And to think....they train for this everyday?! Why gave me this crazy idea to enter the triathalon? The triathalon had been postponed from November and there were two girls that were going to do it.....but their biker went home in December. Therefore, I told them last weekend that if they found me a bike, I would bike for them. The day before the race, I checked out the bike that I would be riding. Clipless peddles (meaning your feet are attached to your peddles) that I've never used before, riding on an island full of hills! I rode a little bit of the course on Saturday to "train". The portion that I rode? The relatively easy portion....yet I struggled on the hills. How was I ever going to make it on the most difficult part?! Well, I guess we shall see come race day! The best part of it all?! I didn't have a helmet, so I wore a moped helmet. That's right folks, I went real Roatan fashion.....delayed training, moped helmet.... Look where it got us....first place!
I think that about sums up my life for the past few weeks. Weather is starting to get nicer again; went for a snorkel yesterday and it was quite nice--saw a Baracuda, a few star fish, swam in a school of fish--man was it clear yesterday! Four months are gone, eight months left--time sure is flying, but at the same time, there are days when it seems to move so very slowly.
Until next time,
xoxo
Since the new year, things have started to pick up around the clinic. During the month of January, we have had 4-5 residents every week working with us int he clinic. We have had a couple visiting doctors as well as a few other volunteers. With the increase of volunteers in the clinic, it has brought with it an increase of patients. Over the past couple weeks we have been seeing 40-65 patients! Fortunately for us (not so fortunate for the patient), it hasn't just been an increase in number of patients, but we have also gotten to see and do some new and interesting things. For instance, we saw a lady with a blood sugar of "hi". Now when this comes up on a glucometer, you know it's bad. "Normal" blood sugar is 60-110; it says "hi" once it's over 600! Over the past few months we have been working to control this lady's diabetes, so it didn't really surprise me all that much. So what did we do for her? I, yes, that would be me, put in an IV...my first ever! Man, did I ever master that IV- got it on my first try! Now this wasn't just any IV start, this was an IV start on a lady that was dehydrated and had no veins....makes for just a bit harder of a stick, but I conquered it none the less! However, I must say, it was probably to her advantage that she couldn't understand us as I was walked through putting in an IV....something about that wouldn't comfort me all that much :p Along with that, we have seen a few results of moto accidents, I have started not one, but two IV's successfully, we are making headway on our upstairs in hopes of opening in April, we are tightening our bootstraps for the boat load of volunteers we are going to be seeing throughout the month of February, plus starting to get out into the community more with health fairs and presentations.
Over the past few weeks we have gone up into the Colonia a few times in order to hold health fairs. During these health fairs we check people's weight (as many/most do not have scales and/or know what they weigh), blood sugar, blood pressure, and screen for HIV. If we run across something that needs further evaluation, we refer them to the clinic, making sure to tell them that if they cannot afford it we will see them anyways. This is often times what holds people back from coming in the first place. Many do not realize that we will see them even if they cannot pay. That is one beauty of the clinic and the excellent health care we provide. Unlike in the states, everyone gets quality health care (at the clinic that is), regardless of their ability to pay and without having worries about insurance. Besides the health fair, we also did a women's health class in the Colonia. Although I did not attend, I hear it was a great success and well accepted....we will definately need to get more of those going.
Last week, we also took a field trip into the Colonia in order to deliver a dozen backpacks and school clothes. There are two families of 8 or 9 living in a house about the size of a nice bathroom maybe. It is unreal what you see when going up into the Colonia--it never ceases to amaze me! 3,000 people living up on the hillside in which they have to walk up steep, steep hills to get to there homes while carrying a small child, propane tank, supplies, food, etc. Many don't have work outside the house and many of the kids do not go to school. What gets me everytime, though, is walking past houses that have cable tv or the number of people that have cell phones and talk on them constantly but can't afford food. What has technology come too? Has it really consumed our life that much that it is more important to us than food and shelter? Sometimes, I think that is definately the case, and it is really quite sad and almost pathetic! Think about all the technology in your life. How do you compare? What are your priorities--the here and now or the cyper, technological "galaxy"?
I know what people are really waiting to hear about is the rumored triathalon I was in. That's right, I was part of a triatholon this past weekend. You didn't know I was training for one? Oh wait, that's because I didn't! haha Yup, cold turkey in the Bay Island Triathalon and my relay team took 1st! While some may not think going cold turkey is all that terrible, let me paint you a little picture. The bike portion (which I did) was 5 miles on hilly terrain. Yes, 14%, 18%, and 20 %, grade hills...for those of you unfamiliar with grading (you're not alone)...but that is practically straight up for all I'm concerned. Apparently "normal" grade for a hill is right around 8%. So yes, these hills covered about a third of the course. The course here on Roatan is one of the top 5 hardest courses....in the world! Future olympic athletes come to compete for points to get them into the olympics. That's right....I was racing with olympic athletes! And to think....they train for this everyday?! Why gave me this crazy idea to enter the triathalon? The triathalon had been postponed from November and there were two girls that were going to do it.....but their biker went home in December. Therefore, I told them last weekend that if they found me a bike, I would bike for them. The day before the race, I checked out the bike that I would be riding. Clipless peddles (meaning your feet are attached to your peddles) that I've never used before, riding on an island full of hills! I rode a little bit of the course on Saturday to "train". The portion that I rode? The relatively easy portion....yet I struggled on the hills. How was I ever going to make it on the most difficult part?! Well, I guess we shall see come race day! The best part of it all?! I didn't have a helmet, so I wore a moped helmet. That's right folks, I went real Roatan fashion.....delayed training, moped helmet.... Look where it got us....first place!
I think that about sums up my life for the past few weeks. Weather is starting to get nicer again; went for a snorkel yesterday and it was quite nice--saw a Baracuda, a few star fish, swam in a school of fish--man was it clear yesterday! Four months are gone, eight months left--time sure is flying, but at the same time, there are days when it seems to move so very slowly.
Until next time,
xoxo
Friday, January 7, 2011
Another time, another day...
Another day, another YEAR!! Holy cow, where did the year go?! That's right, in case you missed it, it is now 2011! I guess that calls for a Happy New Years!
What happened this past year? Let me shed some light on that for you. I complete my last semester at CSB/SJU and graduated in May. I applied to and was accepted to volunteer with CMMB for the next year beginning in September. I spent my summer waitressing to help fill in the whole that was created by attending college for four years. I decided that after I complete my year of volunteering, I would go to grad school. In June, I took and passed the NCLEX and became a RN. I backpacked the back country of Philmont Boy Scout Ranch with 4 of my siblings...and we all survived and came back alive (contrary to the thoughts of many)! I took a week long road trip with 3 friends exploring some of the world's largest things and the many statues of Paul Bunyon and friends. I spent the summer hanging out with friends and family to say my final goodbyes as I prepared to move abroad for a year. I moved to Roatan, Honduras and quickly became the charge nurse at Clinica Esperanza. I've become "Doctora" to a multitude of people (even if I just answer a simple medical question for them) :) I experienced 46 straight days of rain and my first hurricane ever! I've transitioned to a life of simplicity and learned what it means to not be on a tight schedule. I've seen God in many new ways and have learned many new things about myself and others. I seen many beautiful sunsets, a full rainbow, and countless numbers of starts. Seeing a cruise ship on a daily basis is no longer something new and unusual. All in all, it's been a great year. I'm glad it took place, and I'm sad to see it done; but I'm sure whatever awaits in the upcoming year has potential to be just as great, if not better!
So what did I do to ring in the new year? Well, 2 CSB/SJU nursing students, Maggie and Jacki, chose to spend their 3 week Christmas vacation volunteering on the mainland of Honduras. Therefore, they decided to come over to Roatan to visit over New Years! New Years Eve, we headed down to West End to meet up with some of the other people that came over with them. Bryan and the West End Players, just about the only band on the island, was playing down on the beach/road side and having a street party to help bring in the new year. Therefore, we hung out around there listening to the music and trying not to fall asleep as we all continually yawned. Once midnight hit, there were fireworks to be seen. Alright, we made it to midnight, now lets head home! I know, we are lame, but such is the life. Upon arriving back home, we heard fireworks, gunshots, music, and pot banging, as the celebrations continued. New Years Day we ventured up to the clinic to complete a dressing change of a lady that had a skin graft done on her leg after being in a car accident. From the time we started changing it 2 weeks ago, to now, it has really come a long way-- it's so neat to see the progression of healing! Following that, we toured a family around the clinic and then headed across the street to catch the end of the dolphin show....what a treat! The afternoon was spent walking to West End in the sunshine and relaxing on the beach soaking up sun, while all the rest of you back home were in the midst of a blizzard. I'm terribly sorry! (Not really....just slightly jealous!)
Not much is new in around the clinic since last time. Over the holiday season it has been kind of slow because Dr. Rafael is on vacation until Monday, so we only had Dr. Raymond, a resident, and a med student to see patients. Therefore, we were only seeing 20-25 patients a day instead of our typical 40 patients a day. Now one would think with less patients, we would get done much earlier--nope! guess again! Like Miss Peggy has said, we operate out of a box: if there is a lot of work to be done, they move through patients faster; if there is little work to be done, they move through them slower. No getting done early for us! Within the next few weeks and for the next month or two, things should start to pick up around the clinic and I am sure there will be many more stories to be told. Not to worry, I will keep you posted :)
xoxo
What happened this past year? Let me shed some light on that for you. I complete my last semester at CSB/SJU and graduated in May. I applied to and was accepted to volunteer with CMMB for the next year beginning in September. I spent my summer waitressing to help fill in the whole that was created by attending college for four years. I decided that after I complete my year of volunteering, I would go to grad school. In June, I took and passed the NCLEX and became a RN. I backpacked the back country of Philmont Boy Scout Ranch with 4 of my siblings...and we all survived and came back alive (contrary to the thoughts of many)! I took a week long road trip with 3 friends exploring some of the world's largest things and the many statues of Paul Bunyon and friends. I spent the summer hanging out with friends and family to say my final goodbyes as I prepared to move abroad for a year. I moved to Roatan, Honduras and quickly became the charge nurse at Clinica Esperanza. I've become "Doctora" to a multitude of people (even if I just answer a simple medical question for them) :) I experienced 46 straight days of rain and my first hurricane ever! I've transitioned to a life of simplicity and learned what it means to not be on a tight schedule. I've seen God in many new ways and have learned many new things about myself and others. I seen many beautiful sunsets, a full rainbow, and countless numbers of starts. Seeing a cruise ship on a daily basis is no longer something new and unusual. All in all, it's been a great year. I'm glad it took place, and I'm sad to see it done; but I'm sure whatever awaits in the upcoming year has potential to be just as great, if not better!
So what did I do to ring in the new year? Well, 2 CSB/SJU nursing students, Maggie and Jacki, chose to spend their 3 week Christmas vacation volunteering on the mainland of Honduras. Therefore, they decided to come over to Roatan to visit over New Years! New Years Eve, we headed down to West End to meet up with some of the other people that came over with them. Bryan and the West End Players, just about the only band on the island, was playing down on the beach/road side and having a street party to help bring in the new year. Therefore, we hung out around there listening to the music and trying not to fall asleep as we all continually yawned. Once midnight hit, there were fireworks to be seen. Alright, we made it to midnight, now lets head home! I know, we are lame, but such is the life. Upon arriving back home, we heard fireworks, gunshots, music, and pot banging, as the celebrations continued. New Years Day we ventured up to the clinic to complete a dressing change of a lady that had a skin graft done on her leg after being in a car accident. From the time we started changing it 2 weeks ago, to now, it has really come a long way-- it's so neat to see the progression of healing! Following that, we toured a family around the clinic and then headed across the street to catch the end of the dolphin show....what a treat! The afternoon was spent walking to West End in the sunshine and relaxing on the beach soaking up sun, while all the rest of you back home were in the midst of a blizzard. I'm terribly sorry! (Not really....just slightly jealous!)
Not much is new in around the clinic since last time. Over the holiday season it has been kind of slow because Dr. Rafael is on vacation until Monday, so we only had Dr. Raymond, a resident, and a med student to see patients. Therefore, we were only seeing 20-25 patients a day instead of our typical 40 patients a day. Now one would think with less patients, we would get done much earlier--nope! guess again! Like Miss Peggy has said, we operate out of a box: if there is a lot of work to be done, they move through patients faster; if there is little work to be done, they move through them slower. No getting done early for us! Within the next few weeks and for the next month or two, things should start to pick up around the clinic and I am sure there will be many more stories to be told. Not to worry, I will keep you posted :)
xoxo
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