My time in Tanzania is drawing nearer, and seems even closer
because I am leaving Canada so soon! The last couple of weeks I have been
making lists and racking my brain, trying to get ready for the trip. If you
ever hope to go to Africa, you’ll need some time to plan.
In order to travel to Africa, I needed to visit a travel
clinic. The doctor there gave me a list of shots and medications that I needed
to take, as well as some advice about how to stay healthy while I’m there. Four
needles and two prescriptions later, I’ve been vaccinated for Typhoid,
Hepatitis A, Yellow Fever, and Meningitis. I’m also ready to battle Malaria and
travelers diariah with some pills, lol. It’s really a whole other world of
bacteria and viruses in Africa than we’re used to here in Canada.
In addition
to this medication, there are other ways to prevent exposure to these diseases.
A lot of the viruses are passed around by mosquitoes…I have a feeling my
African perfume will smell suspiciously like deet, and my bed will be
romantically covered with a mosquito net…(thanks Donna!) I will also need to be
cautious about the bacteria in the water. I expect that bottled water will be
available for drinking. In case of an emergency, though, I’m bringing some
small chlorine pucks that can sterilize water for drinking. I’ve even been
advised not to swim in fresh water lakes…bummer!
Other preparations for my travels have included a medical assessment,
application for residency in Tanzania, and packing. I’ll be living out of a
backpack all summer! I’m very grateful to everyone who has helped me prepare
and lent me things to take along with me…you know who you are!
I’d like to give you some details about my trip now…an
itinerary if you will! As you may know, on my way to Africa I will be “laying
over” in Europe for a time. More details about this will follow! So here’s the
plan:
May 16th: Depart for Paris!
June 20th: Arrive in Tanzania, Africa
June 21st – July 19th: Training
Mondays – Thursdays
8:15-12:30 Swahili Lessons
1230-1:30 Lunch break
1:30-2:30 Introduction to
Medical Equipment
2:30-5:00 Troubleshoot/Repair
Medical Equipment Laboratory
Fridays: Hospital Work days
I look forward to this time to get to know my team (there
are about 20 other people who will be participating on this trip) and learn
Swahili…for now, all I know is Hakuna Matata…might not get me that far…o well!
July 19th - August 17th
8 AM – 5 PM Work at
hospitals.
I have been assigned to Nkoranga Hospital in Arusha. This
hospital is located on the side of a volcanic mountain, and it contains an
X-ray machine, dental clinic, and orphanage. I’m really excited to work in such
a diverse hospital…sounds like they could have lots of equipment that needs
fixing! As participants, in this part of the trip we know not to limit
ourselves to repairs. We are ready to help out in the hospital no matter what
the need. I’m also excited to work with Lauren, the other participant that I’ve
been paired with. We will take on this hospital as a solo team!
August 17th – August 19th
End
of program conference.
I am hoping to add to this blog weekly, telling stories of
my adventures and how God has been present in my life. Stay tuned!
Lots of love!
