Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Fwd: HAITI-day 7



---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Tom Chowattukunnel <nivnithzak@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, Jan 31, 2010 at 6:00 PM
Subject: HAITI-day 7
To: HOME <nivnithzak@gmail.com>
Cc: SINDU <sinliz67@gmail.com>


HAITI-day 7

Did not get out of bed,but in the middle of the night heard the dogs(mangy little mutts living in the compund)barking,people in our tent talking and a woman moaning.Although half-asleep,I was able to deduce that a pregnant woman in labor showed up at the clinic,was seen by Dr.Swan and would most likely deliver later that morning.Went back to sleep.Awoke at 615 to the sounds of cocks crowing and the pregnant lady screaming more and more frequently as her labor progressed.

After breakfast(bun with peanut butter,banana and coffee) assisted with delivery of healthy baby girl.Most Haitian women deliver at home with assistance of a midwife.Last day of clinic was busy,especially since our number was down to 8.Hastily had lunch of macaroni with chicken.Around 1445 flatbed truck arrived with large group from a church in Waco,Texas.There were at least 2 physicians in this group.They unloaded their gear and got acclimated to the compound,while we gathered and loaded our gear and medical supplies(going to another clinic).We tried to give our replacements a crash course on how to run the clinic and on the proper "rules of engagement"-don't see anyone not signed in and given a number.We shared our wisdom regarding proper bathroom etiquette and basic plumbing.I hope the new group is up to the task and wish them well.I saw my last patients and almost shed a tear as I bid adieu to the local "interpreter guys".

Back to Portauprince I was in the back of the truck with all the guys.The view was much more limited than that of a front-seat passenger.We intermittently used our dust masks,not only to protect our lungs,but also due to certain pungent odors indicating a lack of proper sanitation .

Arrived at our mission base house after 1900.We made a brief stop at the airport on the way to reconfirm our return flight.Supper had a Mexican theme:rice,beef,corn,tomatoes,refried beans and pineapple.Discussed different missionary medical issues with pastor Dan.I was not fazed by rather large specimen of Periplanata americana(cockroach)sharing bathroom with me during my usual quick bucket bath.Slept on mattress
on floor next to exit, just in case.Home tomorrow!









Sent from my iPhone

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