As everyday passes I get a little more excited and a little more sad. The feelings that I have about leaving are very bittersweet. I love Uganda, especially Gulu. I love the relationships I have started to make. I love how beautiful and peaceful it is here. Most of all, I love the way the people make you feel here. I cant believe that its Wednesday, that its the middle of another week.
I went back to the hospital today. I arrived at 9 to a ward with 5 or 6 children in it. The doctor that comes to determine whether the child is going to be transferred or discharged came a little while later. (The normal pediatric doctor is still on strike) He transferred every child to the other pediatric ward and then went on his way to the ward in which he works. After all the children had left the day got extremely slow. I read my book, toured the lab and the medical school. Stella, the med student and my friend, was so excited to show me her room and her school. I wish I would have had my camera with me. The med students rooms are smaller than the dorms where I stayed my freshman year at UT (Shout out to Humes) and four people live in them. After touring the medical school, Stella and I went back to the ward. It was not until I was getting ready to leave that a child came. The child was a girl and had severe malaria with convulsions.
Ill interrupt here to give you a little background on how patients get checked in at Gulu Hospital. Every patient goes to the out patient ward where they are seen quickly by a doctor to determine what ward they should go. This doctor also determines the illness they are suffering from and a general treatment plan. The patients then go to the wards in which they are sent. All of this information is kept in a little green or blue book made from 16 sheets of notebook paper. The books are kept with the patient at all times (yes it leaves the hospital). Without this book the patient cannot be seen at the wards in which they are referred to by out patient. So back to my story.
The little girl has severe malaria and comes into the acute pediatric ward. Since there is no doctor on staff the nurse and med student started the girl on the recommended treatment plan. This includes a fever reducer, quinine (anti-malaria drug), dewormer (every child gets one), and a vitamin shot. After a few hours on the IV drip the doctor comes in to check on the patients in the ward. He comes to this specific child and ask about the child. He then informs the nurse that this child is not only suffering from severe malaria but also from dehydration, malnutrition, anemia, and pneumonia. And the quinine that was given worsens most of those illnesses. By the time that I left the little girl could barely breathe.
After the hospital I worked on my school work and took a nap. Nothing too exciting :) Miss everyone so much.
Quote of the day
“Doing is everything”
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
I think im addicted to the market
I was so lucky to have the day off from the hospital and after yesterday it was much needed. I just wish I was off because of choice and not because the doctors are on strike. I got to sleep in, which was the first time since I left home and by sleeping in I was able to sleep past 9 am. I had pancakes for breakfast, went to taks (an art place where they sell jewelery and bags from people affected by the war), and the market. My new dress was finally ready and I love it!!! It is my favorite so far. I read by the pool and had dinner at Cedars. Today was a much needed day of alone/me time. Sorry my blog is short today. Im tired and ready to get to bed. Gotta be ready for my day at the hospital tomorrow. Miss everyone.
Quote
"You scare them because you remind them of a ghost"
Haha talking about why I scare some of the babies in the market.
Quote
"You scare them because you remind them of a ghost"
Haha talking about why I scare some of the babies in the market.
My hardest day yet
Another week is starting. Its crazy to think that this is the start of my third week. I have mixed emotions about being ready to come back. When I walk down the street and the breeze is blowing I think to myself there is nowhere else I would rather be, but when I have a rough day like I did today I miss home, I miss having my friends and family to comfort me.
I went to the hospital again this morning. I arrived to realize that the doctor on staff, the only doctor for the peds ward, wasn’t coming in because he was on strike. So the doctor from the night staff stayed to help out for the day. The ward was crazy busy. There was so many people today that there was not enough beds so children were laying on the floor with their IVs hanging off the windows. The nurses and one doctor were running around trying to get everyone taken care of. Early in the morning we lost a 6 month old boy to malaria. I saw a 3 month old who was rejecting the antiretrovirals she was on (she was HIV positive). Another little girl who was receiving a blood transfusion and she was so weak that she could not even lift her head up. A 6 day old little boy who had jaundice and malaria. (And this is the acute pediatric ward) On top of all of these cases I saw other cases of malaria and pneumonia, both of which are diagnosed strictly on symptoms because the lack of resources. Another little girl, around 2 years old, was back for the 3rd time because the malaria treatment that was given to her did not work. The doctor prescribed a stronger malaria medicine but the women could not afford it and the hospitals pharmacy did not carry this drug (only the first line of defense drug is carried by the hospital and available to the patients free of charge). The lady was a student and could not afford the two drugs, price of 7000 shillings or $2.50 dollars, needed for her child. I ended up paying for the little girl’s medicine. The mother was so happy and thankful and gave me the biggest hug and offered me her meal to show her appreciation. It is little moments like that that make all of the heartache worth it and make me realize how blessed I am.
After I finished at the hospital I went to eat with my roommate. I had a delicious cheeseburger and “chips.” It made me miss my mom and our Five Guys Burgers and Fries dates. After dinner we had some internet time at the cafe. I then came back to read and relax after my long, long, long day. I am so thankful for the loved ones in my life, for how blessed I am, and most of all for me to be able to make a small difference in the lives of these people.
Quote for the day!
“Bitterness and guilt will hold you captive“
I went to the hospital again this morning. I arrived to realize that the doctor on staff, the only doctor for the peds ward, wasn’t coming in because he was on strike. So the doctor from the night staff stayed to help out for the day. The ward was crazy busy. There was so many people today that there was not enough beds so children were laying on the floor with their IVs hanging off the windows. The nurses and one doctor were running around trying to get everyone taken care of. Early in the morning we lost a 6 month old boy to malaria. I saw a 3 month old who was rejecting the antiretrovirals she was on (she was HIV positive). Another little girl who was receiving a blood transfusion and she was so weak that she could not even lift her head up. A 6 day old little boy who had jaundice and malaria. (And this is the acute pediatric ward) On top of all of these cases I saw other cases of malaria and pneumonia, both of which are diagnosed strictly on symptoms because the lack of resources. Another little girl, around 2 years old, was back for the 3rd time because the malaria treatment that was given to her did not work. The doctor prescribed a stronger malaria medicine but the women could not afford it and the hospitals pharmacy did not carry this drug (only the first line of defense drug is carried by the hospital and available to the patients free of charge). The lady was a student and could not afford the two drugs, price of 7000 shillings or $2.50 dollars, needed for her child. I ended up paying for the little girl’s medicine. The mother was so happy and thankful and gave me the biggest hug and offered me her meal to show her appreciation. It is little moments like that that make all of the heartache worth it and make me realize how blessed I am.
After I finished at the hospital I went to eat with my roommate. I had a delicious cheeseburger and “chips.” It made me miss my mom and our Five Guys Burgers and Fries dates. After dinner we had some internet time at the cafe. I then came back to read and relax after my long, long, long day. I am so thankful for the loved ones in my life, for how blessed I am, and most of all for me to be able to make a small difference in the lives of these people.
Quote for the day!
“Bitterness and guilt will hold you captive“
Monday, July 25, 2011
Lazy day for me :)
Today was a nice, lazy day. We woke up bright and early due to the sun shinning in our room and the noise of the town. I got ready and went to a new cafe and had pancakes (A-MAZING) and an iced mocha :) I used the free internet there and was able to upload all of my pictures before coming back to the hotel and reading my book. After reading for a while we went to the market and then to dinner at sankofas (one of my favorite places in town) I had pizza and it was delicious :) After eating I went back to the hotel and was able to make it before the rain came in. Happy Sunday to everyone!!!! I still love it here but man am I ready to back in the States. There is so many things that I miss, so many things I took for granted. Miss all my friends and family so much. Really missing my parents (especially my lil Q-tip) and my benjamin :)
Instead of a quote tonight I think I will give you something I took for granted, something so simple that I would have never thought about until now.
I miss how easy it is to crawl into bed after a long day. Here I have to put my mosquito net down, make sure there is not any bugs inside then tuck it around the edges. I know its not a huge deal but something small I miss.
Instead of a quote tonight I think I will give you something I took for granted, something so simple that I would have never thought about until now.
I miss how easy it is to crawl into bed after a long day. Here I have to put my mosquito net down, make sure there is not any bugs inside then tuck it around the edges. I know its not a huge deal but something small I miss.
Lukodi Village
Exactly two weeks until my birthday :)
Today we went to Lukodi, a village outside of Gulu. A survivor from the Lukodi massacre, which happened in 2004, invited us there after speaking to us last week in class. The scenery on the way to the village was incredible. Nothing but fields, trees, and in the background mountains. I loved it :D Once we arrived, we were greeted by the local people from the village at the local school. We walked to see the memorial and hear the testimony from a few survivors. It was heartbreaking what we heard. 56 people were killed in the massacre and even more are still missing to this day. One of the worst things about this particular site is that the people of this village buried their loved ones according to culture after the massacre but they were then required to unbury them for evidence and then bury them again. It broke my heart when hearing this and even more when I saw grown men cry when remembering it. After we saw the memorial, we walked to the new site in which they plan to build a community center. The land on which they plan to build is beautiful and there is an old building that was falling down with trees growing through it. It reminded me of The Secret Garden. After looking at the new location and hearing what they imagined to be there one day, we walked back to the school to see their classrooms and to play a game of “football” (soccer) with the local team. I didnt personally play but the guys that are on the trip played. We watched and enjoyed the wonderful breeze. During the game more and more village children came to watch so I handed out my silly bands to them. They loved them! But some of the kids were trying to be dishonest and take more than one so it got kinda rowdy. Once the game was over we got back on our bus and headed back to Gulu. It was an amazing day.That night we went to eat ethiopian. It was yummy! It started raining while we were there so we had ride the botas back on muddy/puddly roads. Not fun. Today was much better than yesterday and it was great to be able to see more of Uganda. It amazing to hear the stories of the survivors and to see how optimistic they are.
Quote
“Your hair comes in first, yours in second, and yours last”
PS my hair finally got touched by a random women.
Today we went to Lukodi, a village outside of Gulu. A survivor from the Lukodi massacre, which happened in 2004, invited us there after speaking to us last week in class. The scenery on the way to the village was incredible. Nothing but fields, trees, and in the background mountains. I loved it :D Once we arrived, we were greeted by the local people from the village at the local school. We walked to see the memorial and hear the testimony from a few survivors. It was heartbreaking what we heard. 56 people were killed in the massacre and even more are still missing to this day. One of the worst things about this particular site is that the people of this village buried their loved ones according to culture after the massacre but they were then required to unbury them for evidence and then bury them again. It broke my heart when hearing this and even more when I saw grown men cry when remembering it. After we saw the memorial, we walked to the new site in which they plan to build a community center. The land on which they plan to build is beautiful and there is an old building that was falling down with trees growing through it. It reminded me of The Secret Garden. After looking at the new location and hearing what they imagined to be there one day, we walked back to the school to see their classrooms and to play a game of “football” (soccer) with the local team. I didnt personally play but the guys that are on the trip played. We watched and enjoyed the wonderful breeze. During the game more and more village children came to watch so I handed out my silly bands to them. They loved them! But some of the kids were trying to be dishonest and take more than one so it got kinda rowdy. Once the game was over we got back on our bus and headed back to Gulu. It was an amazing day.That night we went to eat ethiopian. It was yummy! It started raining while we were there so we had ride the botas back on muddy/puddly roads. Not fun. Today was much better than yesterday and it was great to be able to see more of Uganda. It amazing to hear the stories of the survivors and to see how optimistic they are.
Quote
“Your hair comes in first, yours in second, and yours last”
PS my hair finally got touched by a random women.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Rough day
Another week has gone by... I cant believe its Friday again. Today was a sad/rough day. I woke up and it was a rainy day. I got ready for the hospital and had breakfast downstairs at the hotel. I showed up at the peds ward and started taking the temperature and breathing rates of the children that were there. (Gulu Hospital is a teaching hospital so one of the ladies in the ward is a medical student) so the main doctor (only one for the unit) was asking the student questions concerning the patients and such when a child with down syndrome came in to the ward. The doctor asked the med student what was wrong with the child and the med student replied with fever, stomach aches and such. The doctor said no what was physically wrong with the child (I knew as soon as I saw the child that she had down syndrome) and the student did not know. The doctor precedes to explain that this child was “retarded” and that she had down syndrome, he then goes and points out all of the abnormalities of the child’s face (in front of everyone). I was horrified. The mother and child did not speak english so they had no idea what the doctor was saying. The worst part was when the doctor asked the med student to ask the mother if she knew her child was “retarded.” I felt like she knew something was wrong because the child’s name meant “bad spirits.” He did not want to treat her because she was a child that would always be sick. I was in shock how the hospital personal acted toward them and shocked that the med student had never seen a child with down syndrome. My heart was broken and I sat there and had tears running down my face. And this was only the start of my day. During the day I saw a 2 year old whose eye was swollen shut and the father could not afford the medicine to fix the problem. I offered to pay for it and then we couldnt find the medicine he needed (the little boy was probably going to lose his sight). Another little girl (5 months) had to get an IV in her head because of her veins collapsing. I love being in peds but its heart breaking at the same time. BUT best part of my day was holding that little 5 month year old and rocking her in my arms until she fell asleep (i “the muzungu” was the only one after 5 “africans” had tried) and I loved every second of it. Another shocking thing is the level of cleanliness... the children dont have diapers and the IVs cant move so everyone goes to the bathroom in the floor (should have seen my face when that first happened).
After my long day at the hospital I came home and went to the market then to dinner at an Indian restaurant. I am missing everyone soooo much and kinda homesick after my long day. I cried for the first time today about not being home. Hope tomorrow is better.
Quote for the day
“ Forgiveness happens at different levels”
After my long day at the hospital I came home and went to the market then to dinner at an Indian restaurant. I am missing everyone soooo much and kinda homesick after my long day. I cried for the first time today about not being home. Hope tomorrow is better.
Quote for the day
“ Forgiveness happens at different levels”
Saturday, July 23, 2011
First day of my Internship
First day of internships... and man did it start early!!! Went to the hospital for an 8 hour day and it started with a bang. As soon as I arrived the pediatric ward was getting cleaned. They take buckets of water and throw it on the floor then squeegee the water and waste outside into the grass. The waste that came out of the ward included cups, paper, syringes, and other biohazardous material. To top it off the chickens that run around the hospital ran over to the water and started to drink. (lets say I will not be eating meat anymore). After the ward was cleaned I went upstairs to meet with Sister Mary, the head nurse. She assigned me to temperatures and respiratory rates for the children. I saw about 8 children. Two of them had severe pneumonia and the others malaria. Two of the children with malaria came to the ward unconscious (it was mind blowing). All the children who were admitted into the ward receive IV lines and one little boy, around 10 months, got stuck no less than 20 times and the nurses/doctors were still unable to get a line started. His screams broke my heart. Another little boy ( I fell in love with him and I played with him all day :D ) was two and could not talk because both his parents were deaf. There are not many accommodations for the deaf at the hospital so it was hard to figure out what was wrong with the little boy. About half way through my day a boy showed up in the ward throwing bottles and screaming, it made me nervous. The nurse informed me that the guy is from the mental health unit and he escapes frequently. After the hospital I came back showered and took a nap (first one of the trip) the rainy weather made it amazing. I woke up and left for dinner, which was on the other side of town. That made for an interesting trip. The rain made the roads turn into streams and we hit so many potholes that I thought we would fall into. Dinner was great. I had a vegetarian sandwich and lemonade... yummy. Night night time :)
Hope everyone is staying safe and healthy!!!!
Quote from the doctor
“Everything here is malaria unless proven otherwise”
PS another person has malaria... eeekkkk hope i dont get it
Hope everyone is staying safe and healthy!!!!
Quote from the doctor
“Everything here is malaria unless proven otherwise”
PS another person has malaria... eeekkkk hope i dont get it
LAST DAY OF CLASSES
Last day of classes!!!!! Yippie (except I have all of my papers to write still) Our last two guest speakers were amazing... extremely informative and very interesting. To top things off they did not use the whole time allowed to speak which meant early day for us! Too bad that extra time was spent by me being sick and writing papers :( A bunch of us got some type of food poisoning and were sick for most of the day/night. Another girl that came with us was diagnosed with malaria (lets hope I make it through the trip without that). Pretty boring day. Hope everyone is doing great :)
Quote for Today
“Warmth is the best way to overcome pain”
Quote for Today
“Warmth is the best way to overcome pain”
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
I was named today :)
Oh Tuesday!!!! I wish you were Wednesday because that would mean no more class for me :) Oh well I am so close. Today has been incredible. I am finding myself making friends with the locals and finding my way around. I love boda boda rides (the motorbikes) and walking through the market. Today I went back to the hospital to meet the head nurse, sister Mary. The hospital is one of the most fascinating places and I cannot wait until I am there everyday. I will be working in the acute pediatric unit, the other pediatric unit and the malnutrition ward. I was also very flattered today because I was told by the nurse that I have beautiful eyes that show my strength. :)
I bought beads today that support the former abducted women of the war... cannot wait to wear them. I also went back to the market to visit with my friends (the ladies that have made my dresses) It was there that I got my Acholi name, which is a huge honor to get and where I was invited to Sara’s home. Also a huge honor. I sat and talked to the ladies for about an hour before heading back to my room (power was out again and has been out all night). Today was great!!! Still have three papers to do before tomorrow at midnight .... eeekkkk!!!!
Miss everyone sooo sooo sooo much!!!!!
Yours truly,
Lamaro, which means love
“Forgiveness is the best way to settle differences”
I bought beads today that support the former abducted women of the war... cannot wait to wear them. I also went back to the market to visit with my friends (the ladies that have made my dresses) It was there that I got my Acholi name, which is a huge honor to get and where I was invited to Sara’s home. Also a huge honor. I sat and talked to the ladies for about an hour before heading back to my room (power was out again and has been out all night). Today was great!!! Still have three papers to do before tomorrow at midnight .... eeekkkk!!!!
Miss everyone sooo sooo sooo much!!!!!
Yours truly,
Lamaro, which means love
“Forgiveness is the best way to settle differences”
Just a blah day
10 days into my trip to Uganda. 26 days until I return home. Its amazing because it does not seem like I have been here for that long, time is flying by.
Today I got to visit Gulu hospital, the location where I will be doing my internship. It was crazy to see how different our health care system is compared to theirs. It was heartbreaking. They have several wards, which are in different buildings. These include acute pediatric, HIV/AIDS, TB, surgical, and many others. The patients do not get fed by the hospital. There is no waiting area. People just sit on the ground in the sun. The biohazards are in a huge pile which eventually get burned. It was insane to see.
After my tour I went to class (extremely long, hot day). Once class was over I headed to the market where I found two pieces of fabric (completely in love). And the rest of my evening was occupied by papers :( which has been very difficult to focus on. The power being out for most of the night makes it hard to get stuff done.
Quote from a survivor
“Death does not rot”
Today I got to visit Gulu hospital, the location where I will be doing my internship. It was crazy to see how different our health care system is compared to theirs. It was heartbreaking. They have several wards, which are in different buildings. These include acute pediatric, HIV/AIDS, TB, surgical, and many others. The patients do not get fed by the hospital. There is no waiting area. People just sit on the ground in the sun. The biohazards are in a huge pile which eventually get burned. It was insane to see.
After my tour I went to class (extremely long, hot day). Once class was over I headed to the market where I found two pieces of fabric (completely in love). And the rest of my evening was occupied by papers :( which has been very difficult to focus on. The power being out for most of the night makes it hard to get stuff done.
Quote from a survivor
“Death does not rot”
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Sunday Funday
SUNDAY!!!! Less than 3 weeks until my birthday :) should the countdown begin? Today has been incredible. I woke up to a goat "crying" pretty sure getting killed.... and to a nice rain. The rain stayed long enough to make everything hot and sticky. Had bananas for breakfast again and then headed to the international criminal justice day parade. I danced in the streets with the local children (best part of the trip) It was amazing :) This one little girl stole my heart! Today was the first time that I have seen extremely poor children. One little boy was drinking water that was the color of red clay.... After the march we ate lunch and worked on our school work.
Have a blessed sunday funday everyone :)
Quote of the day
"Mercy is a gift to society"
Have a blessed sunday funday everyone :)
Quote of the day
"Mercy is a gift to society"
SUNDAY FUNDAY
Oh Sunday.... a day when I thought I was going to be able to sleep in for a while.... Nope a lovely goat woke me up
Finally a day to Relax
After a busy busy week I was so thankful to be able to sit down and relax. I was able to rearrange my bags to make living out of them for the next three weeks bearable. I ate breakfast (got sick for the first time this trip) and then went to the pool. After the pool I went to the internet cafe before heading over to a friends place for a cookout. At the cookout we ate pizza and fruit. Then around a fire we learned some of the Acholi dances. It was a blast. The power went out during the cookout making the sky beautiful, so many stars :) Short blog I know but it was a much needed lazy day!!!
PS found some cookie... not chocolate but they will do
Quote for the day
"If God says yes, nobody can tell you no"
PS found some cookie... not chocolate but they will do
Quote for the day
"If God says yes, nobody can tell you no"
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Its Friday Friday :)
ITS FRIDAY :) Yippie I am so glad to finally have a break. We have been going non-stop since we got off the plane and we finally have a somewhat slow weekend planned. Its much needed to get caught up on my reading and papers, as well as laundry. Today was wonderful!!! I went to class and was able to hear some incredible first hand accounts of the rituals and traditions of the Acholi people, along with personal accounts of war survivors. It was absolutely heart breaking and yet inspirational. There were two gentlemen and three women that came and spoke with us. Two of the women and both of the men were survivors of massacres that were committed by the LRA in their villages. One of the women lost 17 family members during her villages massacre, and one of the gentlemen’s village lost 55 members and that does not include the people that are still missing. The remaining women, Grace, was abducted from her school and held captive for 7 years until she was able to escape. While in captivity she had two children, one later being killed by a land mine. It was one of the most emotional events that I have witnessed in my life. What gets me the most is when asked what they would like to see happen to the people responsible they only ask for them to come forward so they can forgive them. It is just amazing. And to think that I made their day by giving them a package of silly bands to take to their children... what humble, forgiving people.
After class I went to the market and picked up my first African made dress :) I love it and am already wanting another. Once we left the market we went to the internet cafe and then to dinner, which was also an art exhibit. (I almost came home with two pieces)
Gulu is amazing. The people are incredible. The culture is remarkable. And Im actually figuring out my way here.
Here is my quote for the day
“Better to die for the truth than live for a lie”
Hope everyone is doing great. Eat lots of sweets for me :)
After class I went to the market and picked up my first African made dress :) I love it and am already wanting another. Once we left the market we went to the internet cafe and then to dinner, which was also an art exhibit. (I almost came home with two pieces)
Gulu is amazing. The people are incredible. The culture is remarkable. And Im actually figuring out my way here.
Here is my quote for the day
“Better to die for the truth than live for a lie”
Hope everyone is doing great. Eat lots of sweets for me :)
Friday, July 15, 2011
One Week Down :)
hursday, so I have been away from home for exactly a week. It does not feel like I have been here a week. The time here is a lot different from time in America, its like everything is so fast but so slow at the same time. I am starting to get in the mindset that power is not guaranteed, neither is hot water, bug repellant at 5, and mosquito nets over beds at night. Its funny all the little things we take for granted. I feel especially humbled today because of the wonderful speaker we had in class. Ketty Anyeko, whom is working directly with affected females of the war came to speak. She, as a child, was a “night commuter,” which are people who had to leave their homes at night to stay at a safer location because of fear of the LRA. She was by far my favorite speaker because she had first hand accounts of what crimes were committed during the war, the rapes, abductions, killings, and massacres. What surprises me the most is how much heartache these people have gone through, yet they are so happy and optimistic. Incredible. After our class we ate lunch at a super nice hotel and then headed to the market, where I currently have a dress being made :)
I planned on posting all my blogs today but the power is out again so I will have to wait until it comes back on.
Quote for you to think about :)
“Conflict can be deadly but it can be amazing and powerful”
I planned on posting all my blogs today but the power is out again so I will have to wait until it comes back on.
Quote for you to think about :)
“Conflict can be deadly but it can be amazing and powerful”
First Day of Class
First day of classes were today :) We walked about 15 minutes to get to where our classes are held, which is a part of Gulu University. The classroom made me feel like I was a freshman again sitting in Ayers on the Hill. A wonderful guy named Moses Chrispus Okello spoke to our class about the war and some of the dynamics that were involved. It was amazing to hear a persons account of the information and to see an Ugandan’s point of view on the subject. After our first half of class we ate lunch at a bar called BJZ. (lets just say it was not my favorite place here) One of the girls ordered chicken and a whole chicken came out... thankfully I ordered a vegetarian meal. The next gentleman that spoke with a guy by the name of WodOkello Lawoko. He was an older gentleman whom had witnessed much of the northern Ugandan conflict. He discussed with us post independent problems that he has witnessed, as well as some of his account while held in the dungeons of Nakasero. I have only been in Uganda for a few days but already I have heard of so many personal accounts of the war, its shocking to see how many people were truly affected by it. After the long day I finally made it to an internet cafe, which is like using dial up, to check my email and post my blogs (which wouldnt work).
Miss everyone soooo much!!!!!
Quote for the day, which refers to the way the see the end of the war
“We are closer to peace and closer to explosion”
Miss everyone soooo much!!!!!
Quote for the day, which refers to the way the see the end of the war
“We are closer to peace and closer to explosion”
Leaving Kampala
Today before we left Kampala for the town of Gulu we headed for one last meeting in parliament. Today we got to speak to the deputy speaker (huge deal). He was brilliant, so composed, and so humbled. It occurred to me during this meeting just how important ideas and suggestions are to the government of Uganda. Its not like our government that has been established and has been the same for so many years. Their government is new, fresh, and still being altered. Its amazing to think that we were able to sit and talk to such influential people for this country.
After we left parliament we left on our long journey north. It was the longest ride ever!!!! Not to mention I was in the fold out seat of our matatu, which makes for an uncomfortable ride. On the way there the car behind us that contained all of our baggage got a flat tire. We had to stop on the side of the road (very skinny roads) to allow for the tire to be exchanged. It was also my first “bush pee” for the trip. We finally got back on the road to the kakanyero hotel. Because of the delay we ended up passing over the Nile River at dark... and I couldnt see a thing. So Disappointed!!!! We arrived at our hotel after a 5.5 hour trip. The hotel is nice and in the middle of the city, the room that I am sharing with someone else is a bit small but has a bathroom attached and a refrigerator. I couldnt be happier that im on the street side and not the side where you can hear the animals getting killed in the morning. Im starting to appreciate little blessings like that :)
Quote for the day
“You Americans already have passion but you need to have passion WITH compassion”
After we left parliament we left on our long journey north. It was the longest ride ever!!!! Not to mention I was in the fold out seat of our matatu, which makes for an uncomfortable ride. On the way there the car behind us that contained all of our baggage got a flat tire. We had to stop on the side of the road (very skinny roads) to allow for the tire to be exchanged. It was also my first “bush pee” for the trip. We finally got back on the road to the kakanyero hotel. Because of the delay we ended up passing over the Nile River at dark... and I couldnt see a thing. So Disappointed!!!! We arrived at our hotel after a 5.5 hour trip. The hotel is nice and in the middle of the city, the room that I am sharing with someone else is a bit small but has a bathroom attached and a refrigerator. I couldnt be happier that im on the street side and not the side where you can hear the animals getting killed in the morning. Im starting to appreciate little blessings like that :)
Quote for the day
“You Americans already have passion but you need to have passion WITH compassion”
Monday, July 11, 2011
Day in Parliament
Uganda is amazing.
I wish everyone could see the sights and meet the people I have met so far. The people here are some of the most humble and gracious people I have ever met. Today we met a few people that belong to the Ugandan parliament, two of which were females :) One of the ladies we met was blind and had been serving for years. She was now head of disability and was responsible for a number of programs to help the disabled. It was amazing to meet such a high ranked person, and to know that she her self had many obstacles that not only did she over come but decided to use those to help others. We also got to meet the Honorable Betty Amongi-Ongom, whom is on parliament and is working for peace and reconciliation for the Northern region of Uganda. This is very important step in their recovery after such a long civil war. Amazing people and they all welcomed us with open arms and hearts.
After parliament we went to cafe ballet, which is a cafe owned by the princess of Buganda. We had real Ugandan food which included many vegetables and beans. There is never a lot of meat with any of our food. After lunch we saw the serena hotel, a famous historical hotel in Kampala. It was beautiful, but kinda unbelievable to know there is such a nice hotel and that so much government money was wasted on this hotel when there is so much poverty here. We had “mexican” food for dinner and trying to get to bed early for our busy busy day tomorrow, where we will meeting more people of parliament and traveling to Gulu where I will be spending the next month.
Miss everyone and a good fast food meal :/
Quote for the day
“For every answer there are two more questions”
I wish everyone could see the sights and meet the people I have met so far. The people here are some of the most humble and gracious people I have ever met. Today we met a few people that belong to the Ugandan parliament, two of which were females :) One of the ladies we met was blind and had been serving for years. She was now head of disability and was responsible for a number of programs to help the disabled. It was amazing to meet such a high ranked person, and to know that she her self had many obstacles that not only did she over come but decided to use those to help others. We also got to meet the Honorable Betty Amongi-Ongom, whom is on parliament and is working for peace and reconciliation for the Northern region of Uganda. This is very important step in their recovery after such a long civil war. Amazing people and they all welcomed us with open arms and hearts.
After parliament we went to cafe ballet, which is a cafe owned by the princess of Buganda. We had real Ugandan food which included many vegetables and beans. There is never a lot of meat with any of our food. After lunch we saw the serena hotel, a famous historical hotel in Kampala. It was beautiful, but kinda unbelievable to know there is such a nice hotel and that so much government money was wasted on this hotel when there is so much poverty here. We had “mexican” food for dinner and trying to get to bed early for our busy busy day tomorrow, where we will meeting more people of parliament and traveling to Gulu where I will be spending the next month.
Miss everyone and a good fast food meal :/
Quote for the day
“For every answer there are two more questions”
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Million Dollar View
My days are starting to run together.... between the jet lag and the busy schedule I am forgetting what happens each day. (It seems like I have seen a thousand amazing things so far)
Today I went to a Kampala Church for a true Ugandan service, which lasted 3 hours. The people of Kampala came in amazing full out special occasion outfits, there was hip-hop dancing, powerful music, and an extremely long church service (which included a strange message). After church we ate a true Ethiopian lunch that was prepared by out hotel manger, for a foreign food it was good other than the bread was extremely bitter. I napped then we went to see a famous cathedral which overlooked the whole entire city... amazing :)
BUT the best part of the night was getting an amazing creme doughnut and then going to see an Uganda dance troop. We danced and drank an african beer. It was by far the best experience yet.
On a different note....
It wasnt until today that I saw extremely poor people... it broke my heart when I saw the way so many people here live and yet they are so happy and so optimistic. The one picture that I cannot get out of my head is a picture of a little boy 6 or 7 sitting on the sidewalk without a shirt and without shoes with his head resting on the wall.
Even though Im missing my loved ones at home I am extremely thankful for this amazing opportunity.
Quote from today to make you think
"You dont sow seeds and harvest the grown plant in the same season."
Today I went to a Kampala Church for a true Ugandan service, which lasted 3 hours. The people of Kampala came in amazing full out special occasion outfits, there was hip-hop dancing, powerful music, and an extremely long church service (which included a strange message). After church we ate a true Ethiopian lunch that was prepared by out hotel manger, for a foreign food it was good other than the bread was extremely bitter. I napped then we went to see a famous cathedral which overlooked the whole entire city... amazing :)
BUT the best part of the night was getting an amazing creme doughnut and then going to see an Uganda dance troop. We danced and drank an african beer. It was by far the best experience yet.
On a different note....
It wasnt until today that I saw extremely poor people... it broke my heart when I saw the way so many people here live and yet they are so happy and so optimistic. The one picture that I cannot get out of my head is a picture of a little boy 6 or 7 sitting on the sidewalk without a shirt and without shoes with his head resting on the wall.
Even though Im missing my loved ones at home I am extremely thankful for this amazing opportunity.
Quote from today to make you think
"You dont sow seeds and harvest the grown plant in the same season."
Saturday, July 9, 2011
matatus are gonna kill me
Today was my first full day in Uganda and I am really not getting the culture shock like I thought I would. There are certain things that Im going to have to get used to such as carrying my flashlight at night, putting bug spray on at 5, and not depending on running water/electricity because they go out frequently but in a way none of that seems to matter. The only thing Im having a hard time getting used to is not being able to have clean water to drink whenever I want it... Its something I miss very much!!!
But my day was super eventful.....I woke up bright and early and saw my first rain.. all it did was make it nice and muggy.... we ordered food (which was interesting) walked to get our money changed over (which their bills are way better than ours), we went to the zoo and to the botanical gardens, ate pizza on lake victoria, and moved to a different city. But its one here so ill be getting off here.
Its amazing here. Wish you guys could see it.
PS matatus are the buses that you take around (like taxis) and they cannot drive
But my day was super eventful.....I woke up bright and early and saw my first rain.. all it did was make it nice and muggy.... we ordered food (which was interesting) walked to get our money changed over (which their bills are way better than ours), we went to the zoo and to the botanical gardens, ate pizza on lake victoria, and moved to a different city. But its one here so ill be getting off here.
Its amazing here. Wish you guys could see it.
PS matatus are the buses that you take around (like taxis) and they cannot drive
Friday, July 8, 2011
Finally in Uganda
After a long long long flight I am safe and sound in Uganda. The group and I are staying at a hostile near lake Victoria and the breeze is amazing!!!! The hostile is not quite what I imagined but its only for one night. Im glad to be off the plane and glad that I dont have to eat anymore plane food. I think I did pretty good for my first flight. :) and got my picture taken by some rando guy sitting in front of me on the plane.... super awkward.
On another note the driving situation here is a mess.... there is no order people pulling out and whipping into spaces while your trying to back up.... I was stressing out and I was not even driving!!!!
Ill try to post pictures as soon as I can!!!!
Now time to explore my new "home"
On another note the driving situation here is a mess.... there is no order people pulling out and whipping into spaces while your trying to back up.... I was stressing out and I was not even driving!!!!
Ill try to post pictures as soon as I can!!!!
Now time to explore my new "home"
Thursday, July 7, 2011
The first few hours
So I am sitting in DC waiting for my plane to Ethiopia, which will be a 13 hours trip.... eekkkk. I woke up today never being away from home for longer than a week or two, never stepping foot on a plane, and never being this far outside of my comfort zone. (To say the least it was a bit nerve racking) I have now been on an hour flight and got my "wings" saw God's beautiful creation from high in the sky and I couldnt be more blessed and excited, still very nervous for this trip of a life time. Im trying to keep an open mind and heart and cannot wait to see what these next few weeks will bring.
Next time I write I will be in Uganda :) Yippie
Love all of your love and support
Next time I write I will be in Uganda :) Yippie
Love all of your love and support
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