Health Project one month on: James' final thoughts
So my four weeks
on the health project are almost over. There are only two days left now! Time
has flown by, and this blog will attempt to sum everything up.
So here goes…
As the first
volunteer on health project, some basic research was needed on the diseases and
infections that impact Kenya and the Shimoni area. GVI had a number of
resources available and the dispensary was also a great resource, so I was able
to cover a wide range of health problems. Particular focus was given to the
public health issues in the area: HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and
malnutrition. This research looked at the incidence of these conditions in
Kenya and Shimoni, the treatments provided by the dispensary and what
organisations provide support. Overall, this was a great experience and I am
very lucky to have been able to speak to the people treating these conditions
in the local community.
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| Jess helps to take measurements at the dispensary |
Another
important component of the project was helping out at the Shimoni Dispensary.
Being a local community health clinic, this centre has an important role in the
community, and it is magnificently supported by the local community health
workers. A quick look at my duties included: helping with the count of
medicines, handing out free mosquito nets to pregnant mothers, assisting the
community health talks and teaching the pharmacist about drug mechanisms. Working
at the dispensary was a great opportunity; it provided a real insight into the
workings of the Kenyan health care system and I was exposed to the treatment of
conditions that are almost unheard of in developed countries.
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| Leading a life skills class on team work |
Now there is one
more component of the health project that surpassed all my expectations, and
that’s the value of teaching life skills in the local schools and taking
computer classes for members of the local community health groups. Teaching in
the schools wasn’t always easy; the conditions were very different from what I
am used to. However, I adapted quickly and it was a great experience – I now
feel like I can teach anything, anywhere! The computer classes were equally
rewarding. I really felt that I was able to have a huge difference in such a
short amount of time, and now some of the community health workers are ready to
teach their peers and take a step towards digitalizing their work and records –
a great achievement for the community of Shimoni.
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| James assisting at a malnutrition clinic |
It is hard to
sum up my experience on the project in such a small number of words. The health
project is a great introduction into international health, and I hope that the
project continues to grow with each influx of volunteers! Lastly, I would like
to thank the GVI staff for their work on the project, and most importantly I
would like to thank the people of Shimoni. They have graciously welcomed me
into their community, and I will remember my time in Shimoni for the rest of my
life.
James Nightingale – Health Project Volunteer
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| Health Project team: James, Patrick (Shimoni Public Health Officer), Jess and Christina |
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