Day 11

Hello friends, family, and newcomers. Welcome to or welcome back to my blog where I am documenting the process leading up to and during my first humanitarian mission to Eldoret, Kenya.

Today is Wednesday, April 9th, marking the sixth day of clinical work. I am unwell today. Becci and Dr. Spivak are departing a day early, making today our last full day together at the hospital. With only one day remaining after today, I can't comprehend how quickly the time has passed. It really needs to slow down.

We woke up at 6:45, got dressed, and headed downstairs for breakfast. I had my usual meal, drank some water, took my medication, and then we left.

Upon arriving at the hospital, I changed and headed straight to the conference room. We had brought a lot of bread, yogurt, and eggs for snacks, which were all stacked on the table, and Becci and I couldn't stop laughing about it. We received our assignments for the day and went downstairs to the colposcopy area to work with Dr. Claud and Dr. Virginia for a while.

There were several intriguing cases in the operating room today, so we wanted to ensure we were present for the ones we were interested in. The little three-year-old I had seen in the clinic was being attended to today, and I was eager to be there for her. Before going to the OR, we administered another large volume enema, and I gathered all the necessary supplies, which was easier today than it was yesterday. I prepared the enema and administered it to the patient. We went over the education again to ensure the patient and nurses felt confident continuing after my departure.

I then proceeded to the ward to assess two patients who were on their first day post-operation. I ensured their ostomies were in good condition and evaluated whether there was any function yet. I examined their urine foley bags, noting that the dark color of their urine indicated a need for fluids, which the nurses promptly administered. Additionally, I checked the output from their drains.

After checking on them, I changed a pouch and then met Karim and Becci in the kitchen for something incredibly exciting. The day before, the kitchen staff invited us to cut onions and help prepare lunch. We eagerly accepted and spent the late morning and early afternoon chopping onions, tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage, watermelon, and pineapple. We also observed how they cooked the beans and all the meat. We had the chance to talk with the hospital's head nutritionist, who plans the daily menu, which was very insightful. Additionally, we helped choose the menu for the staff for the next day and were invited back to learn how to make chapatis. Stepping away from clinical work temporarily to cook, something I truly love, was refreshing. We shared many laughs and smiles as we chopped everything, even capturing time lapses to watch later. It's amazing that they provide food for patients and staff every day, starting early in the morning and cooking into the afternoon to ensure everyone is fed. I've never felt happier; my cheeks hurt from smiling so much and so widely.

Onions, tomatoes, cabbage, and potatoes.

Cutting watermelon

Cutting pineapples

After spending time in the kitchen, I cleaned up and headed to the operating room, where an EUA had begun for the little girl. I saw her just before she went to sleep and stayed throughout the procedure. I was asked to pouch her colostomy once they finished. Today was a bit easier, and I had more success with pouching since the patient was asleep and not moving. As I went through the steps to place the pouch, I explained what I was doing to everyone present. I didn't fully grasp the significance of this until later, when Becci and I were talking. She looked at me and said, "Megan, the entire room was watching you and absorbing every word you said. I'm so proud of you, and it was incredibly cool to witness." She was scheduled for surgery again the next day to complete the necessary extensive work.

Megan Vernon, BSN, RN

Our colleague, Dr. Afshin, has been capturing absolutely stunning headshots of everyone we've been working with, including hospital staff. Today, it was Becci's and my turn for our headshots, and it was a fun experience. We went to the front of the hospital, where Dr. Afshin positioned us and guided our poses, showcasing his expertise. We chose our favorite shot, and he posted it immediately with our credentials. It was a special moment, and I appreciate that he took the time to capture every individual, recognizing each person's integral role in the campaign's success.

I observed several cases of congenital malformations where patients were born without anal openings, and a surgical procedure was planned to create one. Becci and I used a step stool to watch one of the surgeries because her mom and Dr. Tracy were performing it. Witnessing them excel in their field here has been a true privilege. I greatly admire both of them and their career achievements; they are truly formidable, and I couldn't have asked for a better group to accompany and learn from during this experience.

Everyone finished their cases, a schedule was prepared for the next day, and we concluded the day with 190 cases. We had far surpassed our goal, and it feels great to know we have another day to assist more women. However, it was a bittersweet end to the day because it was the last day I had my partner in crime with me. Becci has been such a special part of this entire trip and has become a friend I am so grateful to have in my life. Before leaving, we took some group photos, loaded into the vans, and returned to the hotel.

We returned to the grocery store tonight to pick up some tea. I adore tea, and the selection here is among the best I've ever had, so I bought plenty for myself and for others to try back home. One of my co-workers, Laverne, is a tea enthusiast and has introduced me to some great varieties, so I'm eager for her to taste these. After the grocery store, we met Dr. Maher and Karim at an Indian restaurant for dinner, where we enjoyed some delicious food. There was a young woman celebrating her birthday with her partner, and we sang her happy birthday as we were leaving, which was sweet. We returned to the hotel, and Becci and I spent hours outside in the common area, chatting and drinking tea.

Last dinner out!

At about 12:30, I returned to the room and got into bed. I am experiencing a multitude of emotions. Today marks the last day of our clinical work, and I am uncertain about how I will feel once it's completed. What I do know is that we intend to make the most of it.

Until later :)

All Love,

Meg