Diaries from Zambia: A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.

When we were first asked to blog about our experience in Zambia I thought it would be easy. I mean how hard is it to blog about what we are doing and how we are feeling. It was only when I sat down in front of my computer did I realize how hard this would actually be. When we write papers and essays for school it is never this personal or real. So here I am, blogging for the first time with no idea what to write, say or not to say.

We feel blessed and lucky to get this the amazing opportunity to not only go to Zambia but practice nursing, something we are all so passionate about. It’s weird, the people around us keep telling us how proud they are of us and what an amazing thing we are doing, but the fact is, nothing has really clicked in yet. Even after the classes, the shots and what seems to be endless packing I still don’t feel like I am leaving Canada for 7 weeks, let alone going to Africa.

I think it is safe to say that we are all feeling anxious, overwhelmed, excited, scared, scared and did I mention scared!!! Personally I haven’t traveled much outside of North America. In fact I haven’t travelled much at all! That’s probably the main reason I am sitting here with a big pile of stuff and no idea how to pack it

                                                                                                               <3 Kiran, Fallon, Sam, Sonam, Pavan

                                     P.S As a Group we decided to Title our blogs Dairies from Zambia

Well today as I am two days from departure on my life changing adventure I am wondering, will I fit everything that I need for two months in my bacpack...does not seem likely.  This feelinf of being unsure what the next two months of my life holds for me is something that causes me excitmennt and nervouseness all the same.  For me this trip to africa is 4 years in the making and as I am writing this i cannot believe that the day is fast approaching.  reality has set in and my heart and mind are ready for this incredible journey with many incredible faculty and students.  We hope that you will check back often as we promise to keep you updated on our many adventures of this Zambian Nursing practicum.  To friends family and fellow students and faculty Musiyale hande which means stay safe.
Susie

UBCO Nursing Group Zambia 2012- Packing Day

T-5 days until I officially depart from Canada to start what might be one of my biggest adventures! We had our packing day a couple days ago, and as I was lugging fifty pounds of medical supplies, gifts, and more into my house the whole trip became real. I am excited for the experiences that lay ahead, although feeling a little anxious to leave the comforts of home. I am thrilled that I am going on this trip with many wonderful student nurses, some who I know well, and others who I anticipate becoming closer with. I look forward to the stories I will have to share throughout my practicum and can not wait to see what the world holds for me!
Sylvia :)

Only a few more sleeps until we will all be flying into Lusaka to start our adventure in Zambia.  I feel that time is going so fast and that the few days left in Canada are not enough, but at the same time excitement is growing and I’m anxious to start!  Today was packing day and that is when reality really hit me;   we will soon be leaving our friends and family behind and it will just be us and our suitcases in Zambia. I know that the excitement will make the next seven weeks fly by, but I can’t help but reflect back that seven weeks ago from today we were all in classes working on projects and papers.  That seems like a while ago! Panic, excitement, happiness and sadness seem to be the emotions that I switch between and I am sure I’m not the only one. I wish a safe trip for everyone to Zambia as we reunite in just over a week!

-Denée

A New Year and a New Adventure

As exams finish and holidays begin, a new group of student nurses is preparing for their own adventure in Zambia.

Check back regularly as the nurses contribute posts leading up to their arrival in Africa on January 15, 2012!

- Joel