Debrief

Clinics: November 4-11

Total number of clinic days: 6

Total amount of registered pt's: 1001

Total amount of people treated: over 1200

 The whole clinic experience was interesting and challenging.  The most challenging was the mindset of some of the team members, the disparity between 3^rd and 1^st word medicine, and the challenge of creating a balance.  A balance between teaching the locals how things can be done and telling them how things should change.  Many times I would just hold my tongue, not saying things when my advice or how things could run more effectively was clearly disrespected.  Being viewed as some white rich girl has many drawbacks.  My past two trips to Uganda had, to an extent, equipped me for this attitude.  However when tired and frustrated already, adding these expectations seemed too much for me.  Even having the team members steal pens perturbed me at times.  You say...a pen...come on girl. Be real.  Well, you’re right....it’s true.  It’s just a pen.  But dealing with that attitude over and over again is difficult.  The attitude of dependency and entitlement was thick at times.  I was thankful that the clinics gave the team a glimpse into the needs of Uganda, especially when the medications had run out.

No matter how much I hate those attitudes, I can’t say too much.  Uganda is in the middle of having an upper class emerge.  The middle class is slightly growing as well.  The attitude to fend for oneself and to survive still remains poignant.  Even in the upper classes.  The people have worked hard gaining whatever amount of wealth they have, in whatever way.  To give up that wealth, even just a minimal amount, is not an attitude that has been adopted.  And so the country continues to suffer, grow and some even prosper.  To teach selflessness and a volunteering spirit is something to keep in mind when visiting this place.

“God’s work done God’s way never lacks supplies”.  Whoever said this was wise.  Not only because God will provide everything that we need....but it helps me realize that whatever God had in mind for the clinics WAS accomplished.  I was able to help out with that, even though it seemed like in a very tiny way.  God still used it I am certain.   Am learning that real love is a miracle.  Half the time I rationalize and ask myself “why do you love these people”.  Whether in Kampala or Edmonton, this question pops in my mind often.  My only answer...it’s not me.....the love comes from Someone else.