MONGU thus far.

First of all I would like to start off by saying that I have already been deeply humbled by my experiences here in Zambia. We often take for granted everything we live, breathe, know, and expect back in Canada. I believe this is something that will resonate with me forever.

Even in Africa, we are truly spoiled with our beautiful, newly reno’d guesthouse directly across from some of Zambia’s largest flood plains, and our brand, spanking new ZAMBIKES! It is a blessing to be able to come home to such a safe, peaceful environment where we can debrief and relax in the hot African sunshine. Our new home is a small paradise in a world of heartache and need. Outside the gate of the guesthouse, the Mongu community is in dire need, yet despite the turmoil that surrounds them, the people of Mongu maintain big smiles, warm appreciation, faith in God, and hope. Their resilience inspires me.

On Sunday, we had the opportunity to visit an orphanage in Mandanga that is run by Mrs. Kababa, the librarian at Lewanika School of Nursing, and her husband, Mr. Kababa. Nearly two hundred ecstatic children greeted us. They were singing and dancing their little hearts out. We laughed, sang, danced, played, and cried. I have never been so moved. This day was beyond anything I could have ever expected.

Monday was our first day of work at Lewanika General Hospital, and we have split into three groups of three. Kirsten, Jamie and I have started working on the female ward this week. When we arrived for our first day, there was just one nurse to twenty-five patients, as the second nurse was ill that day. I cannot begin to explain the conditions that the nurses have to work in, and I realize now how much I will learn from their adaptability as nurses.

Now as the sun sets over the breathtaking flood plains across the road, it is as though nothing else matters in this moment. This moment passes, and the world carries on.

-Lindsay Courtice

“Be the change you wish to see in the world” –Gandhi