Exactly one week ago we began clinic, and suddenly here I am - on my last ward day.
I am in love with Quito and the work CAMTA has been doing here. Although it has been 10 days, I am intrigued by the culture, the people, and how beautiful the country is. Both inside and outside the hospital I have met the greatest people - despite the language barrier, the friendliness and sense of community here is evident.
The sense of community is so strong, that at times it can be a detriment! For example, when I walked into one of my patients room, a cluster of people were standing at their bedside. I asked if they were family, and they all said yes - when in reality, some were neighbors, friends, bosses, etc. Straightening out who is who when 'family' has no clear cut lines is always fun, especially with minimal Spanish skills.
This trip has also given me TONS of practice with my nonverbal skills. When you can't speak more than hola and adios, a smile is all you got! Back at home, my 'non-smiling face' often comes off as angry or inpersonal. Here, all I have to work with is my smile! So basically I go from patient to patient, beaming, because I want to present myself as trustworthy.
Leaving the ward today will be hard. These 10 days have been incredible, and I am chomping at the bit to return. Unfortunately, students are not allowed to return for 2 consecutive years. Meaning that I can't apply as a nursing student next year. I can, however, apply as a translator - yes, I will learn Spanish by next year! - and have the possibility of returning. CAMTA's focus is on spreading the value of mission work and branching out to those who may have not considered it or are first timers. By allowing a student to come once, they open up oppertunities for many others. I appreciate their focus, but I certainly don't like it!!
Again, a huge thanks to everyone who has supported me in your thoughts and prayers this week. I have felt supported, healthy, and effective during my time here. One more sleep until I'm Canada-bound.
Adios!
Danielle.
I am in love with Quito and the work CAMTA has been doing here. Although it has been 10 days, I am intrigued by the culture, the people, and how beautiful the country is. Both inside and outside the hospital I have met the greatest people - despite the language barrier, the friendliness and sense of community here is evident.
The sense of community is so strong, that at times it can be a detriment! For example, when I walked into one of my patients room, a cluster of people were standing at their bedside. I asked if they were family, and they all said yes - when in reality, some were neighbors, friends, bosses, etc. Straightening out who is who when 'family' has no clear cut lines is always fun, especially with minimal Spanish skills.
This trip has also given me TONS of practice with my nonverbal skills. When you can't speak more than hola and adios, a smile is all you got! Back at home, my 'non-smiling face' often comes off as angry or inpersonal. Here, all I have to work with is my smile! So basically I go from patient to patient, beaming, because I want to present myself as trustworthy.
Leaving the ward today will be hard. These 10 days have been incredible, and I am chomping at the bit to return. Unfortunately, students are not allowed to return for 2 consecutive years. Meaning that I can't apply as a nursing student next year. I can, however, apply as a translator - yes, I will learn Spanish by next year! - and have the possibility of returning. CAMTA's focus is on spreading the value of mission work and branching out to those who may have not considered it or are first timers. By allowing a student to come once, they open up oppertunities for many others. I appreciate their focus, but I certainly don't like it!!
Again, a huge thanks to everyone who has supported me in your thoughts and prayers this week. I have felt supported, healthy, and effective during my time here. One more sleep until I'm Canada-bound.
Adios!
Danielle.
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