Made it to Mosambique Island, which is quite surprising having filled the car up with parafin which they call petrol here. It made for an interesting morning and we drew lots for who started the car first. The road into Mosambique was very poor, lots of sliding on mud, avoiding pot holes and having to go off road to avoid broken down vehicles.We had to have an unscheduled stop on the way to Nampula and had to stay in the local whore house which was the best accommodation available. The smell of the toilets brought tears to our eyes.
We had difficulty getting accommodation on Mosambique island and had to book into the 4 star hotel which costs all of £18 per night. So I continue to struggle. The island is not very busy it just has limited accommodation. We were swimming in the Indian Ocean by 6 am and collecting beads and glass from ship wrecks. We have booked Christmas dinner tonight in a lovely resturant and then we will join in the local festivities.
The 2 weeks on safari with the children was good but no one told me that pythons could get into the bedrooms. It was the room ajoining mine thankfully. I think the therapy is still working as I went to see it without any problems. I watched the crocodiles every morning on the opposite bank of the river, I got a shock when I saw one on my side of the river about 10 feet from my door and I watched the elephants and hippos playing in the river in the afternoons as well as going on 6 game drives where we saw many different animals. I also looked after the kids and staff and they have asked me to do it again next year. The other thing I did not expect was that instead of the lovely food that the centre is known for they made local dishes specially for the children which were not to my taste. We also had to eat without cutlery African style. So it was nsima everyday and other unappetising dishes. We broke down in the bush when we were escorting the children home. We had to wait sometime for help and the guide that was with us was dressed in drag to amuse the children. It was quite bizzaire to be stuck in the bush with a guy in a dress and wig surrounded by dangerous animals.
My other unexpected excitement was when lightening got very close to my house and it filled with red then my mosquito net light up like a Christmas tree. The net continued to glow for a long time after the near strike, other people´s light bulbs blew up and the principal´s DVD player blew up. It was during the storm that the telephone lines came down and were subsequently stolen. So life continues to be full of surprises.
Most VSOs go away for Christmas so we have already celebrated with friends in Malosa and Matawali before everyone headed for their holiday destinations. We will head off to Pemba then on to some of the more remote islands in a couple of days and continue our Mosambique experience.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and happy New Year. Keep in touch and thanks for all the lovely cards and parcels.
Monday, 24 December 2007
Friday, 21 December 2007
Merry Christmas
Internet access is non-existent at the moment. (JB is posting this blog entry for me). All telephone lines to the College were brought down during a recent thunderstorm. Some enterprising people took advantage of the availability of copper wire lying on the ground, so it may be some time before I can post a full update on my recent activities. Thanks to all for your support this year. Hope you have a good Christmas, and best wishes for the New Year.
Friday, 30 November 2007
The good life continues with more garden produce and my chickens growing bigger, but still not laying. My cat is still fending off sexual advances from the cat next door and I can't find a vet to dress her. The Malawians think dressing cats is going against nature and no one gets it done. I may come home with 10 kittens.
All the students are in college just now so there is no clinical work to do. I've negotiated sometime off to do some work with "Children in the Wilderness" a charity set up to work with orphans. I'm doing 2 weeks camp with 11 - 15 year olds in the safari park. They get a lot of education on health, the environment and conservation. It sounds a really good charity that supports local children. They follow all the children up after camp and find them sponsorship for education if they need it. They need a nurse on camp so I jumped at the chance. Its a really good way of working with the community as well as working with the students in college. The bottom line is I have 2 weeks in the best accommodation in the best safari camp in the country. The down side is I'll have 48 children to look after and alcohol is banned.
A week after I return from camp I'll be off to Mozambique for a couple of weeks. We are meeting tomorrow to finalise arrangements. It sounds as if some people are pulling out. However, others are still committed and it should be a lot of fun. I got my visa yesterday.
The rains have been coming and going. It got very dry again but we have had more rain over the last few days and when it rains it rains! It also got very hot but thankfully it is a bit cooler now. I had an interesting experience one night when I woke up being shaken about on the bed. It took a few seconds to realise it was a small earthquake. I suppose that's what happens when you live at the bottom of the rift valley.
I spent last weekend at the lake. We had sundowners then watched the moon rise over the lake and in the morning we were swimming before 5.30, after sunrise. Its one of the best chillouts imaginable the only worry is crocodiles. The only worry in Mozambique will be sharks. I think I prefer the crocodiles.
I've had 2 lovely packages from Rhona and Angie. Many thanks for thinking about me and sending on goodies. Letters on their way. I'm still waiting for my shoes and loads of other things that have been sent surface mail. I won't have internet access for the next couple of weeks but hope to get access before my holiday. Keep in touch.
All the students are in college just now so there is no clinical work to do. I've negotiated sometime off to do some work with "Children in the Wilderness" a charity set up to work with orphans. I'm doing 2 weeks camp with 11 - 15 year olds in the safari park. They get a lot of education on health, the environment and conservation. It sounds a really good charity that supports local children. They follow all the children up after camp and find them sponsorship for education if they need it. They need a nurse on camp so I jumped at the chance. Its a really good way of working with the community as well as working with the students in college. The bottom line is I have 2 weeks in the best accommodation in the best safari camp in the country. The down side is I'll have 48 children to look after and alcohol is banned.
A week after I return from camp I'll be off to Mozambique for a couple of weeks. We are meeting tomorrow to finalise arrangements. It sounds as if some people are pulling out. However, others are still committed and it should be a lot of fun. I got my visa yesterday.
The rains have been coming and going. It got very dry again but we have had more rain over the last few days and when it rains it rains! It also got very hot but thankfully it is a bit cooler now. I had an interesting experience one night when I woke up being shaken about on the bed. It took a few seconds to realise it was a small earthquake. I suppose that's what happens when you live at the bottom of the rift valley.
I spent last weekend at the lake. We had sundowners then watched the moon rise over the lake and in the morning we were swimming before 5.30, after sunrise. Its one of the best chillouts imaginable the only worry is crocodiles. The only worry in Mozambique will be sharks. I think I prefer the crocodiles.
I've had 2 lovely packages from Rhona and Angie. Many thanks for thinking about me and sending on goodies. Letters on their way. I'm still waiting for my shoes and loads of other things that have been sent surface mail. I won't have internet access for the next couple of weeks but hope to get access before my holiday. Keep in touch.
Thursday, 8 November 2007
Big Thanks To Saline Ladies
Many thanks to the golf girls who raised funds for the children's ward. I've still to buy the toys next time I get to Blantyre or Lilongwe. The toys will be really appreciated. Unfortunately I'm not allowed to take photos of the children in hospital or I would post some photos on the blog.
Time has been flying and access to Internet has been diminishing. We have had a lot of power cuts and I'm not in Zomba as regularly now that I'm working at St Luke's. I'm settling in there and I've been doing some in-service training in the hospital. I've also been asked to teach diabetes in Zomba College.
The wards are scary places and I'm reluctant to teach there until we have agreed procedures and treatment protocols. I'm trying to get the college and hospital to work together so the students can actually provide the care and treatment that is being taught in college. Unfortunately the hospital practice is very different from what is taught. It's too easy for staff to blame lack of resources and staff shortages for bad practice. I've got the matron and the college to agree to a meeting to agree best practice. Hopefully we will make some progress over the next few months. Things do not happen very quickly here.
I'm now the proud owner of 10 chickens. They are 6 weeks old and should start laying in 10 weeks. 10 was the smallest number I could buy. I'm lucky if I use 6 eggs a week so I'll have plenty surplus. The garden is doing really well. I've had 1 courgette, lots of beans and beetroot from the vegetable patch and lots of herbs. Most of the other plants are doing well. Its amazing how quickly they grow here.
The kitten is out most of the day but I have to keep her in at night because of the feral dogs. The cat next door is making sexual advances towards my kitten so I'll have to get her "done" in a couple of months. She has tortured and killed quite a few geckos and insects. Some of the ants here are about 2 inches long and some of the bees are over 1 inch so they provide excellent hunting for the kitten.
The rainy season is threatening. We have had some very heavy showers of rain and fantastic electrical storms but it has still to start in earnest. I can't wait to get into my Thomas Pink wellies. It gets really hot before the rain and some nights its been unbearable. I don't think it helped having malaria. Thankfully it was not bad because I was taking antimalarials. I was quite shocked when I had a positive slide. I think I was more shocked than unwell.
The car farce has still not been resolved. It has left me not knowing whether to look for another one or not. However I hope it will be resolved soon. I went to the tea estates last weekend with 5 VSO friends. We stayed in a lovely 1970's colonial house and had 3 house staff, including a chef, looking after us. We were totally spoilt in a most fantastic setting. The day we left we went to Mulangie mountain, which is the highest in Malawi, and swam in some of the river pools. We found a cafe that sold ice-cream and hot chocolate sauce, ecstasy! I've also been to the top of Zomba plateau and gone to Chinjie's Hole where lepars and criminals were thrown (dead or alive). It's a 60 foot hole on the plateau that leads to a cave system. The dead bodies were washed down the valley in the rainy season hence the village at the bottom being call dead man's village.
I've mastered making bread and chocolate cake in a pot on the hot plate. Who needs a Neff oven and hob? Me when I get home. My language tutor has definitely done a bunk so my language skills are as bad as ever. My boxes have still not arrived. I've worn holes in my sandals and I'm still suffering from shoe withdrawals. Apart from that all is well. I've had some more lovely cards and letters. I really appreciate all the contact from home. Keep the comments coming on the blog.
Time has been flying and access to Internet has been diminishing. We have had a lot of power cuts and I'm not in Zomba as regularly now that I'm working at St Luke's. I'm settling in there and I've been doing some in-service training in the hospital. I've also been asked to teach diabetes in Zomba College.
The wards are scary places and I'm reluctant to teach there until we have agreed procedures and treatment protocols. I'm trying to get the college and hospital to work together so the students can actually provide the care and treatment that is being taught in college. Unfortunately the hospital practice is very different from what is taught. It's too easy for staff to blame lack of resources and staff shortages for bad practice. I've got the matron and the college to agree to a meeting to agree best practice. Hopefully we will make some progress over the next few months. Things do not happen very quickly here.
I'm now the proud owner of 10 chickens. They are 6 weeks old and should start laying in 10 weeks. 10 was the smallest number I could buy. I'm lucky if I use 6 eggs a week so I'll have plenty surplus. The garden is doing really well. I've had 1 courgette, lots of beans and beetroot from the vegetable patch and lots of herbs. Most of the other plants are doing well. Its amazing how quickly they grow here.
The kitten is out most of the day but I have to keep her in at night because of the feral dogs. The cat next door is making sexual advances towards my kitten so I'll have to get her "done" in a couple of months. She has tortured and killed quite a few geckos and insects. Some of the ants here are about 2 inches long and some of the bees are over 1 inch so they provide excellent hunting for the kitten.
The rainy season is threatening. We have had some very heavy showers of rain and fantastic electrical storms but it has still to start in earnest. I can't wait to get into my Thomas Pink wellies. It gets really hot before the rain and some nights its been unbearable. I don't think it helped having malaria. Thankfully it was not bad because I was taking antimalarials. I was quite shocked when I had a positive slide. I think I was more shocked than unwell.
The car farce has still not been resolved. It has left me not knowing whether to look for another one or not. However I hope it will be resolved soon. I went to the tea estates last weekend with 5 VSO friends. We stayed in a lovely 1970's colonial house and had 3 house staff, including a chef, looking after us. We were totally spoilt in a most fantastic setting. The day we left we went to Mulangie mountain, which is the highest in Malawi, and swam in some of the river pools. We found a cafe that sold ice-cream and hot chocolate sauce, ecstasy! I've also been to the top of Zomba plateau and gone to Chinjie's Hole where lepars and criminals were thrown (dead or alive). It's a 60 foot hole on the plateau that leads to a cave system. The dead bodies were washed down the valley in the rainy season hence the village at the bottom being call dead man's village.
I've mastered making bread and chocolate cake in a pot on the hot plate. Who needs a Neff oven and hob? Me when I get home. My language tutor has definitely done a bunk so my language skills are as bad as ever. My boxes have still not arrived. I've worn holes in my sandals and I'm still suffering from shoe withdrawals. Apart from that all is well. I've had some more lovely cards and letters. I really appreciate all the contact from home. Keep the comments coming on the blog.
Wednesday, 17 October 2007
New Golf Rules
Had my first game of golf Malawi style. I played with men's clubs and had a caddy carry them round for me (when you find your ball the caddy automatically picks the ball up and re sites it for you in a better position). The golf course is not quite like home, the fairways are like the rough, the bunkers are full of saw dust and the greens are called browns and are full of sand. You don't go into the real rough because of snakes but the caddy goes in! You have to avoid the people wandering through the course and lying in the shade reading. The naked men washing in the river can put you off a bit but otherwise it was an OK game of golf. I did not humiliate myself as I often do for the first couple of holes, the ground is so hard the ball goes for miles. I might make golf a regular event if I can find a regular golf mate.
The music festival was a bit surreal, sitting on the beach or swimming in the lake listening to live music. The camping facilities were not the best but that's music festivals. We had a good time but I won't go next year. I have another couple of weekend trips planned to the tea estates and another safari. I still don't know what is happening with the car but hope to know soon. Making Christmas holiday plans is difficult not knowing if I will have the car or need to hire one.
I'm finishing at the mental hospital this week and I'm glad to say I have not got used to some of the sights, sounds or environment. I hope never to accept that level of care as normal. I will be on another big learning curve when I start at St Luke's next week. I really enjoy teaching the students and there was a huge difference in the student's results during my time at the mental hospital. Hopefully I can achieve similar results at St Luke's.
We seem to be having a lot of religious holidays its great being in a country where you get all the holidays. We had Id last week and we have a day for prayers this week. I'll give the prayers a miss and go to the pool instead. My kitten is getting bigger and has made a few spider kills at home. The gecko and cockroach count has gone down but I've not found any remains and I have made snake excluders for the doors. My garden is looking good with loads of veg coming up, I'm also growing cape gooseberries and melons. I will probably buy my chickens this weekend. I delayed getting them until after my holidays.
I've just about reached melting point. I don't know exactly how hot it is but I believe this is the worst month and the rains should start in November. I'm really looking forward to seeing the rain and the skies during storms. I've seen mini tornadoes and dust storms.
Keep the comments coming its great to hear from everyone.
Thursday, 4 October 2007
Holiday Update
Visited Liwonde Safari park since last post. Saw elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, baboons, gazelles, kudu, antelopes, hipos, water monitors and much much more. We had an afternoon safari, gin and tonics by the river as the sun set and then a night safari. We went back for dinner, which was superb, then returned to our chalets for G&ts, it was a bit of a bummer, we could not get to the second chalet for more glasses because of an elephant eating the leaves of a tree outside the chalet. It was one of life's magical moments sitting drinking G&T with friends watching the wildlife a few feet away. The next day we had a boat safari, we saw amazing birds as well as the hipos, more elephants and crocodiles. I had another week at the mental hospital before leaving for holiday. I do work during the week.
I'm on holiday with Rachel, fellow VSO and good mate working in Zomba, and Saray and Nieves, friends of Antonio fellow VSO, from Spain who both lived in Edinburgh. Saray still lives there. We camped at Cape MacClear, the only spot on the lake where you can see the sunset. It was a beautiful setting, a good camp site and of course fantastic weather. We camped there for 2 nights, the second day was my wedding anniversary, I missed a very important person but had a great day. We got a boat to an uninhabited island where we snorkeled with very colourful fish, had our lunch cooked for us by the boatmen, watched the fish eagles dive for fish. We have been cooking gourmet meals on camp fires and having sundowners every night. A rat visited us at dinner on the second evening but kept at a respectable distance. We drove up to Nkotakota where we camped in the dark. A baby snake slithered over my foot on the way to the loo but apart from mosquitoes we had no other visitor. When we woke the next morning we realised we were in paradise, no other campers, our own beach, staff gathering our firewood, the perfect chill out. We have driven up north to Mzuzu today, the largest city in the north. We are staying with Kate, fellow VSO, so real beds tonight. Tomorrow we are setting off for the music festival where we will be camping on the beach again.
I've 2 more weeks at the mental hospital to look forward to on my return then I'll be working at St Luke's. I've written to the car owner but not had any contact from her. I have had to put the car through its safety check and pay for insurance to keep it legal. So I don't know what the outcome of will be. Keep the letters and comments coming. Its great to hear from everyone.
I'm on holiday with Rachel, fellow VSO and good mate working in Zomba, and Saray and Nieves, friends of Antonio fellow VSO, from Spain who both lived in Edinburgh. Saray still lives there. We camped at Cape MacClear, the only spot on the lake where you can see the sunset. It was a beautiful setting, a good camp site and of course fantastic weather. We camped there for 2 nights, the second day was my wedding anniversary, I missed a very important person but had a great day. We got a boat to an uninhabited island where we snorkeled with very colourful fish, had our lunch cooked for us by the boatmen, watched the fish eagles dive for fish. We have been cooking gourmet meals on camp fires and having sundowners every night. A rat visited us at dinner on the second evening but kept at a respectable distance. We drove up to Nkotakota where we camped in the dark. A baby snake slithered over my foot on the way to the loo but apart from mosquitoes we had no other visitor. When we woke the next morning we realised we were in paradise, no other campers, our own beach, staff gathering our firewood, the perfect chill out. We have driven up north to Mzuzu today, the largest city in the north. We are staying with Kate, fellow VSO, so real beds tonight. Tomorrow we are setting off for the music festival where we will be camping on the beach again.
I've 2 more weeks at the mental hospital to look forward to on my return then I'll be working at St Luke's. I've written to the car owner but not had any contact from her. I have had to put the car through its safety check and pay for insurance to keep it legal. So I don't know what the outcome of will be. Keep the letters and comments coming. Its great to hear from everyone.
Friday, 21 September 2007
The Therapy Worked
Saw a live snake for the first time within a metre of my front door. It was a small snake but it was still a snake. I watched it with curiosity as opposed to freezing or yelling as I would have done in the past. So my therapy sessions and snake handling have had some effect. There were other people there and they asked what kind of snake it was but all snakes to me are the same kind and it begins with F. So much for trying not to swear in Malawi. I've done quite a bit of swearing this week. The car I bought and paid a lot of money for turned out to be 11 years old and not 7 years old as the seller informed me, the mileage is lower now than it was on documents 3 years ago so jings, crivens and help ma bob did not quite fit the bill. I think I need more therapy! I'm actually trying to stop the sale but its difficult when the seller is now in a different continent. Anyway I'll enjoy it in the meantime.
I've got my furniture and I'm ready for visitors if anyone wants to come and stay. The accommodation is basic but adequate. The garden is coming on really quickly. All my herbs are coming up and the rest of the seedlings are doing nicely. My chicken house has been built and is waiting for occupants. I've had a garage built. If the car goes back I might keep goats in it. If I get a recipe for gin I might even be self sufficient soon.
I'm going on safari this weekend, a day and night safari. It should be good fun. I hope to get some of it on video. Next weekend I leave for my weeks holiday. I'll be going to the lake and finishing at the music festival the following weekend. I'll get my chickens when I come back. I had 2 lovely parcels this week, more Earl Gray tea and tissues from Jane and a lovely windchime, candles and tissues from Dianne. My boxes from home have still not arrived. I'm only just surviving without my shoe supply. I was informed that they could take up to 6 months by the post office in Zomba. I've been really lucky getting visitors from the UK to bring me stuff over that JB has sent to them. I got Molton Brown toiletries and things for the garden and house brought over and I'm seeing someone next week who is bringing some more things. So I am actually managing very comfortably with my little luxuries from home.
Harry, kitten number 2, is thriving. Its difficult getting cat food so he has mince everyday. He eats more meat than me. He is really enjoying the furniture and uses it all as part of his personal assault course. His favourite piece of equipment is my mosquito net. He loves climbing on it but I'm scared he'll rip it. He thinks its even better fun having me chase him or catch him when he comes into the bedroom.
I'm still illegal, no visa or work permit and VSO still have my passport. I hope I don't have to come home in a hurry. I'm at the mental hospital for the next month then at St Luke's. Teaching in the general hospital may be dull after the mental hospital. Unfortunately when the students are doing their psychiatry other students are doing their community placement so I can't do both.
I got a private language tutor but he didn't pitch up this week. Maybe the stress of teaching me is too much! I even did my homework so I wouldn't appear to be a complete idiot. I'll see if he is brave enough to come back next week. I did warn him that languages were not my forte but I don't think he realised how bad I was. He is a language teacher at the private secondary school so if anyone can help he should be able to.
I may not have access to the internet until I return from my holiday. Keep the comments coming. I've sent some mail home to everyone who has written to me, well to everyone whose letters have arrived.
I've got my furniture and I'm ready for visitors if anyone wants to come and stay. The accommodation is basic but adequate. The garden is coming on really quickly. All my herbs are coming up and the rest of the seedlings are doing nicely. My chicken house has been built and is waiting for occupants. I've had a garage built. If the car goes back I might keep goats in it. If I get a recipe for gin I might even be self sufficient soon.
I'm going on safari this weekend, a day and night safari. It should be good fun. I hope to get some of it on video. Next weekend I leave for my weeks holiday. I'll be going to the lake and finishing at the music festival the following weekend. I'll get my chickens when I come back. I had 2 lovely parcels this week, more Earl Gray tea and tissues from Jane and a lovely windchime, candles and tissues from Dianne. My boxes from home have still not arrived. I'm only just surviving without my shoe supply. I was informed that they could take up to 6 months by the post office in Zomba. I've been really lucky getting visitors from the UK to bring me stuff over that JB has sent to them. I got Molton Brown toiletries and things for the garden and house brought over and I'm seeing someone next week who is bringing some more things. So I am actually managing very comfortably with my little luxuries from home.
Harry, kitten number 2, is thriving. Its difficult getting cat food so he has mince everyday. He eats more meat than me. He is really enjoying the furniture and uses it all as part of his personal assault course. His favourite piece of equipment is my mosquito net. He loves climbing on it but I'm scared he'll rip it. He thinks its even better fun having me chase him or catch him when he comes into the bedroom.
I'm still illegal, no visa or work permit and VSO still have my passport. I hope I don't have to come home in a hurry. I'm at the mental hospital for the next month then at St Luke's. Teaching in the general hospital may be dull after the mental hospital. Unfortunately when the students are doing their psychiatry other students are doing their community placement so I can't do both.
I got a private language tutor but he didn't pitch up this week. Maybe the stress of teaching me is too much! I even did my homework so I wouldn't appear to be a complete idiot. I'll see if he is brave enough to come back next week. I did warn him that languages were not my forte but I don't think he realised how bad I was. He is a language teacher at the private secondary school so if anyone can help he should be able to.
I may not have access to the internet until I return from my holiday. Keep the comments coming. I've sent some mail home to everyone who has written to me, well to everyone whose letters have arrived.
Saturday, 8 September 2007
Illegal Again
Sorry for not being in touch. Internet access has been poor. I spend ages trying to post blogs but I've failed miserably in the last couple of weeks. Its just the way things work, or don't work, in Malawi. I sent a CD with the photos to JB and he posted them for me. The Internet is so slow here it would have taken me a month to upload them.
I spent a whole day with a journalist from the Scotsman. It was a good fun day. There has been a 3 day feature in the paper this week and I got a 1 sentence quote! there was also a photographer with her. I've never been so photographed but I told him he could only used the photos if he made me look 5 foot 9 inches and 9 stone. Clearly he failed and didn't use the pictures.
The conference on the lake was really good. It was brilliant to hear what other volunteers are doing and it was very motivating. Apart from that the sundowners went down a treat and the lake and swimming pool were very inviting. The transport didn't turn up on the last day so we had to spend and extra morning by the pool while we waited for another bus. So life remains tough.
I think the college think they have won the lottery getting a Psyche nurse. They haven't let me out of the mental hospital. Its amazing how quickly I've got back into mental health and I'm really enjoying it. The students are appreciative of the support and input that they were not getting before. We only have students there for the next 6 weeks then I'll have to go to St Luke's to the medical and surgical wards. I'm thinking of writing a procedure manual for the students so if any of you have anything like that and can send it to JB electronically he can send it out to me and I can go swimming in stead.
I'm still without furniture and a car. The person I'm getting them from has delayed her departure so I still have 2 borrowed chairs, a bed from the college and a mattress from Debbie, that doesn't fit the bed, and 2 cardboard boxes turned upside down that are now giving way under the strain of my clutter. I should get the car and furniture at the end of next week but I'll wait and see. I've been let down so many times I'll just take it as it comes. I've had a fence built round my house and that went to plan. The guys turned up a 5 every morning and the noise woke me up, well you can't have it all ways.
For the second time I'm an Illegal in Malawi. VSO have not got our work permits or visas. We wrote to them when we were illegal last time and they got us another 30 day visa but that has now expired. One of the girls is going home for a couple of weeks and is worried about getting back into the country. So if I'm deported you'll know why, a bit different from a colleague of mine. I've booked up for the Malawi T in the Park, a 3 day concert on the lake. There will be artists from all over the world and it should be great fun. I'm going to take the week off and do a bit travelling in Malawi. Apart from that we plan to go to Mozambique for Christmas and spend some time on the beach but I'm sure I'll do a bit more travelling before then.
Keep the comments coming. I love hearing from everyone and once I get my furniture I'll be ready for visitors.
I spent a whole day with a journalist from the Scotsman. It was a good fun day. There has been a 3 day feature in the paper this week and I got a 1 sentence quote! there was also a photographer with her. I've never been so photographed but I told him he could only used the photos if he made me look 5 foot 9 inches and 9 stone. Clearly he failed and didn't use the pictures.
The conference on the lake was really good. It was brilliant to hear what other volunteers are doing and it was very motivating. Apart from that the sundowners went down a treat and the lake and swimming pool were very inviting. The transport didn't turn up on the last day so we had to spend and extra morning by the pool while we waited for another bus. So life remains tough.
I think the college think they have won the lottery getting a Psyche nurse. They haven't let me out of the mental hospital. Its amazing how quickly I've got back into mental health and I'm really enjoying it. The students are appreciative of the support and input that they were not getting before. We only have students there for the next 6 weeks then I'll have to go to St Luke's to the medical and surgical wards. I'm thinking of writing a procedure manual for the students so if any of you have anything like that and can send it to JB electronically he can send it out to me and I can go swimming in stead.
I'm still without furniture and a car. The person I'm getting them from has delayed her departure so I still have 2 borrowed chairs, a bed from the college and a mattress from Debbie, that doesn't fit the bed, and 2 cardboard boxes turned upside down that are now giving way under the strain of my clutter. I should get the car and furniture at the end of next week but I'll wait and see. I've been let down so many times I'll just take it as it comes. I've had a fence built round my house and that went to plan. The guys turned up a 5 every morning and the noise woke me up, well you can't have it all ways.
For the second time I'm an Illegal in Malawi. VSO have not got our work permits or visas. We wrote to them when we were illegal last time and they got us another 30 day visa but that has now expired. One of the girls is going home for a couple of weeks and is worried about getting back into the country. So if I'm deported you'll know why, a bit different from a colleague of mine. I've booked up for the Malawi T in the Park, a 3 day concert on the lake. There will be artists from all over the world and it should be great fun. I'm going to take the week off and do a bit travelling in Malawi. Apart from that we plan to go to Mozambique for Christmas and spend some time on the beach but I'm sure I'll do a bit more travelling before then.
Keep the comments coming. I love hearing from everyone and once I get my furniture I'll be ready for visitors.
Sunday, 26 August 2007
Monday, 20 August 2007
Good News and Bad
I'll give you the bad news first. My lovely wee kitten died when we moved house. I found her dead behind the fridge. I'm not sure what happened. She had been happy and full of life, exploring the new house. She may have got an electric shock. I was gutted and for me it represented life in Malawi, short and sweet. Malawians have lots of children, if one dies they have another one. True to form my house girl brought me another kitten on Friday. I had not decided to have another one but the decision was taken from me. This one, Harry, is very cute and is probably about 6 weeks old. He is very well behaved at present and is already practising his hunting and killing techniques. We are becoming good friends and I'm trying to make the house as safe as possible.
I moved house on Monday, I got a bed from the college, a matress and 2 chairs from Debbie, my neighbour, and I should get my furniture in a couple of weeks. I've bought crockery and cutlery and other bits and pieces but my star buy was a wooden toilet seat! Last weekend I managed to buy 2 ply toilet paper so I'm sitting in the lap of luxury, perhaps I should have put an "H" in sitting. The other real luxury I got was bacon. I've not seen it before or since then and I'm still salivating at the thought of it. Still no shoes from home but I live in hope. Back to the house its a 3 bedroomed house with a large garden. I've managed to clear most of the overgrown areas and I'm going to get a fence built round it. I've planted my herbs in pots, bought a hose and sprinkler and hope to get planting soon.
I've been continuing to work at the mental hospital and later this week I have a VSO meeting at the lake. I know its a tough job but someone has to go to the lake.
Keep in touch.
I moved house on Monday, I got a bed from the college, a matress and 2 chairs from Debbie, my neighbour, and I should get my furniture in a couple of weeks. I've bought crockery and cutlery and other bits and pieces but my star buy was a wooden toilet seat! Last weekend I managed to buy 2 ply toilet paper so I'm sitting in the lap of luxury, perhaps I should have put an "H" in sitting. The other real luxury I got was bacon. I've not seen it before or since then and I'm still salivating at the thought of it. Still no shoes from home but I live in hope. Back to the house its a 3 bedroomed house with a large garden. I've managed to clear most of the overgrown areas and I'm going to get a fence built round it. I've planted my herbs in pots, bought a hose and sprinkler and hope to get planting soon.
I've been continuing to work at the mental hospital and later this week I have a VSO meeting at the lake. I know its a tough job but someone has to go to the lake.
Keep in touch.
Saturday, 11 August 2007
Getting on with the real job
I've been back in Malosa for a week. My house was not ready, as predicted, so I'm still with the monkeys, goats and hyenas. I picked Mati, the kitten, up on sunday and she has taken over the house. She is a scruffy wee thing, who lets you know what she wants, its usually food, and she has a real killer instinct. She tries to kill my feet everytime I move them. She has already been treated for worms and needs treated again, she was infested before I got her so life for cats is not dissimilar to life for patients in Zomba Mental Hospital.
I've been trying to support the students doing their psychiatric placement. Zomba has the only state mental hospital in the country its quite different from any hospital I've ever visited. If you have read "Papillion" you may have some idea of the hospital by comparing it to the prison in the book. The patients come in on temporary treatment orders but they are renewed all the time so its like having a permenant section under their mental health act. They are working to a 1948 act. If you don't have lice when you come in you soon will. The matresses are all infested and the washing facilities are poor, no hot water or baths. Clean clothes are at a premium and the drugs are very limited. Electro convulsive therapy is given without anesthesia. The level of violence is high, theft is rife and there are not enough beds but you can always sleep in your lice infested matress on the floor. Enough said about the hospital.
Our last week in Lilongwe was interesting, there was more focus on education and food security. I've been picking up gardening tips and husbandry skills so as soon as I get the house I'll get going. I've been told I can move on Monday but I'll wait and see, I've been let down so many times. It was like Christmas when I got back from training. I got 5 letters and 1 box and a package. It was great to hear from everyone and I am replying to all letters. Look out for the paper made from elephant crap. The box and package were full of little goodies from JB. Unfortunately 4 other boxes, with shoes in them, have gone missing. You can imagine how distressing that is for me to have missing shoes! I'm sure they'll turn up sometime.
I'm about to try out a resturant for lunch. In Zomba you have to use the word resturant loosely. However I'm going to a good hotel for a meal on Monday with VSO staff, a journalist from the Scotsman and a film crew who are doing something on the Scottish Executive link with Malawi. So look out for something in the Scotsman on my placement here.
Keep the comments and letters coming you are keeping me sane and I'd hate to end up in Zomba Mental Hospital as a patient.
I've been trying to support the students doing their psychiatric placement. Zomba has the only state mental hospital in the country its quite different from any hospital I've ever visited. If you have read "Papillion" you may have some idea of the hospital by comparing it to the prison in the book. The patients come in on temporary treatment orders but they are renewed all the time so its like having a permenant section under their mental health act. They are working to a 1948 act. If you don't have lice when you come in you soon will. The matresses are all infested and the washing facilities are poor, no hot water or baths. Clean clothes are at a premium and the drugs are very limited. Electro convulsive therapy is given without anesthesia. The level of violence is high, theft is rife and there are not enough beds but you can always sleep in your lice infested matress on the floor. Enough said about the hospital.
Our last week in Lilongwe was interesting, there was more focus on education and food security. I've been picking up gardening tips and husbandry skills so as soon as I get the house I'll get going. I've been told I can move on Monday but I'll wait and see, I've been let down so many times. It was like Christmas when I got back from training. I got 5 letters and 1 box and a package. It was great to hear from everyone and I am replying to all letters. Look out for the paper made from elephant crap. The box and package were full of little goodies from JB. Unfortunately 4 other boxes, with shoes in them, have gone missing. You can imagine how distressing that is for me to have missing shoes! I'm sure they'll turn up sometime.
I'm about to try out a resturant for lunch. In Zomba you have to use the word resturant loosely. However I'm going to a good hotel for a meal on Monday with VSO staff, a journalist from the Scotsman and a film crew who are doing something on the Scottish Executive link with Malawi. So look out for something in the Scotsman on my placement here.
Keep the comments and letters coming you are keeping me sane and I'd hate to end up in Zomba Mental Hospital as a patient.
Sunday, 29 July 2007
Local Culture
The first week of training is over and we have been having a really interesting time finding out more about local culture, politics and the health service. 80% of the population live in rural villages and below subsistence level. Unemployment is high and some people who work do not get paid. There is quite a bit of political unrest and parliament is not sitting just now because of the problems.
There are local jobs and responsibilities for the boys in the villages, unpaid but rewarding. If your brothers wife dies you get his wife, whether you want her and her children, or not. This wife inheritance is common. Not the sort of legacy we hope for in the UK. If your wife does not conceive within the first 6 months of marriage you let the village chief know and he sends someone round to roger her until she gets pregnant. If your husband dies someone is sent round to roger you before your husband is buried to free the spirits. When the girls are told how to behave when they get married some comes round to make sure they know all the tricks of the trade. Once children become adolescent they are moved out of their family home into a house for females and house for males. The males have to prove their manhood and regularly break into the girls house at night. The girls are taught to be submissive so not complaints are made. There are lots more similar practices. Maybe the locals are a bit too knackered to work.
Most of the Malawians that we meet are very welcoming and charming. One of the girls has already had a marriage proposal from one of the less charming locals. He said "white bitch I sex you and marry you". Too bad he used the M word and spoilt it. We were entertained in a nightclub last night by the locals who stutted their stuff for our benefit. A benefit we would have been happy to live without. I have progressed from the local gin to the local beer "kuchi kuchie" its OK and cheaper than carlsberg. We have also founch an ice-cream shop here where they dip the ice-cream in melted chocolate. There are a few places for luxuries here but not near most of our placements. I never thought I would consider ice-cream a luxury.
We had a day at the beach yesterday so life remains taxing but we tolerate it well. We did actually have a really busy and interesting week and we have the same again next week. I continue to humiliate myself in the language lessons, despite being in the remedial class. I am trying to convince myself that it will all fit into place when I'm immersed in the language and culture, well maybe not all the culture. I can understand somethings in context but there are a few of us who are struggling in the classes.
I'm looking forward to finally getting into my house, and kitten, when I get back to Malosa. Keep the comments coming, its great to hear whats going on in the other world.
There are local jobs and responsibilities for the boys in the villages, unpaid but rewarding. If your brothers wife dies you get his wife, whether you want her and her children, or not. This wife inheritance is common. Not the sort of legacy we hope for in the UK. If your wife does not conceive within the first 6 months of marriage you let the village chief know and he sends someone round to roger her until she gets pregnant. If your husband dies someone is sent round to roger you before your husband is buried to free the spirits. When the girls are told how to behave when they get married some comes round to make sure they know all the tricks of the trade. Once children become adolescent they are moved out of their family home into a house for females and house for males. The males have to prove their manhood and regularly break into the girls house at night. The girls are taught to be submissive so not complaints are made. There are lots more similar practices. Maybe the locals are a bit too knackered to work.
Most of the Malawians that we meet are very welcoming and charming. One of the girls has already had a marriage proposal from one of the less charming locals. He said "white bitch I sex you and marry you". Too bad he used the M word and spoilt it. We were entertained in a nightclub last night by the locals who stutted their stuff for our benefit. A benefit we would have been happy to live without. I have progressed from the local gin to the local beer "kuchi kuchie" its OK and cheaper than carlsberg. We have also founch an ice-cream shop here where they dip the ice-cream in melted chocolate. There are a few places for luxuries here but not near most of our placements. I never thought I would consider ice-cream a luxury.
We had a day at the beach yesterday so life remains taxing but we tolerate it well. We did actually have a really busy and interesting week and we have the same again next week. I continue to humiliate myself in the language lessons, despite being in the remedial class. I am trying to convince myself that it will all fit into place when I'm immersed in the language and culture, well maybe not all the culture. I can understand somethings in context but there are a few of us who are struggling in the classes.
I'm looking forward to finally getting into my house, and kitten, when I get back to Malosa. Keep the comments coming, its great to hear whats going on in the other world.
Monday, 23 July 2007
Lots Happening
Keep the comments coming its great to hear from everyone. Too bad about Tootsies, I suppose it was predictable. It sounds like you had a great holiday Karen let me know more as you remember more about it.! Thanks for all the goat recipes, I've not got round to them yet but will.
I've had my first mail from home. I was so excited opening it. I know other things were sent earlier but haven't arrived. The post is very erratic here. Jane sent wonderful earl gray tea and wee face creams. I was like a kid at Christmas opening it. I am assured that it can take anything up to 3 months for mail to arrive. The odd thing is I get my weekly news paper from London and it only takes a few days to get here. I keep it for Sundays and read the local papers during the week. They can be quite entertaining.
I've finished my orientation so I should get my registration through before I leave the country. I can now work in the college and hospital. I'm in Lilongwe just now for 2 weeks training with VSO. So I'm looking forward to catching up with all my VSO colleagues and having a few sundowners in the hotel next to ours. The hotel we are staying in is run by Muslims and is dry, no luck there.
I'm in the process of moving house. I've packed everything and should move into my new house when I get back to St Luke's. Its a 3 bedroomed house with a large garden and is only 5 minutes walk from the college and the main road. I'll be able to get the garden going and plant my veg. I'll also be able to get a couple of chickens and hope they don't eat all the veg. I found an amazing amount of mouse shit on the shelves and in the drawers in my house when I was packing and I did have something black scurrying round my feet one night when I got up to the loo. I had thought most of the noises during the night were from the animals outside including my night guard.
I'm getting a kitten when I go back. He/she is called Mati (short for Matawali a village close to Zomba). He/she is the scruffiest kitten I've ever seen but as long as he/she kills the vermin we'll get on just fine. I'll miss my wee house up the hill with the goats, monkeys and hyenas but it will be much better living beside other people and being closer to work and the road.
I was eventually abducted from the road leading to my house and dragged into the church by one of the choir ladies. There was a choir practice and they wanted to sing for me. It was absolutely beautiful, no organ or piano just wonderful singing. I was terrified in case they asked me to sing! The priest has continued to stalk me and I eventually came clean and told him that his understanding and my interpretation of non-denominational were different things and that I really was not about to join the church.
Because of the transport problems and always having to be home before its dark I have decided to buy a car. One of the other volunteers is leaving at the end of August and I'm buying her car from her. So there will be no stopping me then. Petrol is very expensive but it will be good to get out more and see more of the country and catch up with some other people here. The swimming pool should open next month and I'm looking forward to that. Its getting hotter again but the locals still think its cold.
I know some Brownies wanted to keep in touch and become involved in supporting people here. I've asked in the hospital and it would be great if they could knit squares and sew them into blankets about 1 meter square for the nursery.
So all is well here and its great hearing from everyone. I don't know if I'll get back to the Internet before I leave in 2 weeks but I'll keep you posted when I can. Enjoy the summer rain and keep in touch.
I've had my first mail from home. I was so excited opening it. I know other things were sent earlier but haven't arrived. The post is very erratic here. Jane sent wonderful earl gray tea and wee face creams. I was like a kid at Christmas opening it. I am assured that it can take anything up to 3 months for mail to arrive. The odd thing is I get my weekly news paper from London and it only takes a few days to get here. I keep it for Sundays and read the local papers during the week. They can be quite entertaining.
I've finished my orientation so I should get my registration through before I leave the country. I can now work in the college and hospital. I'm in Lilongwe just now for 2 weeks training with VSO. So I'm looking forward to catching up with all my VSO colleagues and having a few sundowners in the hotel next to ours. The hotel we are staying in is run by Muslims and is dry, no luck there.
I'm in the process of moving house. I've packed everything and should move into my new house when I get back to St Luke's. Its a 3 bedroomed house with a large garden and is only 5 minutes walk from the college and the main road. I'll be able to get the garden going and plant my veg. I'll also be able to get a couple of chickens and hope they don't eat all the veg. I found an amazing amount of mouse shit on the shelves and in the drawers in my house when I was packing and I did have something black scurrying round my feet one night when I got up to the loo. I had thought most of the noises during the night were from the animals outside including my night guard.
I'm getting a kitten when I go back. He/she is called Mati (short for Matawali a village close to Zomba). He/she is the scruffiest kitten I've ever seen but as long as he/she kills the vermin we'll get on just fine. I'll miss my wee house up the hill with the goats, monkeys and hyenas but it will be much better living beside other people and being closer to work and the road.
I was eventually abducted from the road leading to my house and dragged into the church by one of the choir ladies. There was a choir practice and they wanted to sing for me. It was absolutely beautiful, no organ or piano just wonderful singing. I was terrified in case they asked me to sing! The priest has continued to stalk me and I eventually came clean and told him that his understanding and my interpretation of non-denominational were different things and that I really was not about to join the church.
Because of the transport problems and always having to be home before its dark I have decided to buy a car. One of the other volunteers is leaving at the end of August and I'm buying her car from her. So there will be no stopping me then. Petrol is very expensive but it will be good to get out more and see more of the country and catch up with some other people here. The swimming pool should open next month and I'm looking forward to that. Its getting hotter again but the locals still think its cold.
I know some Brownies wanted to keep in touch and become involved in supporting people here. I've asked in the hospital and it would be great if they could knit squares and sew them into blankets about 1 meter square for the nursery.
So all is well here and its great hearing from everyone. I don't know if I'll get back to the Internet before I leave in 2 weeks but I'll keep you posted when I can. Enjoy the summer rain and keep in touch.
Wednesday, 11 July 2007
Food Cravings
Having managed without chocolate, wine and meat for 6 weeks I cracked and bought a chicken. I thought it was worth risking African tummy again and I've always got the immodium at hand now. It was the best chicken I've ever had. Once the smell of roasting chicken came from the oven I could hardly contain myself and wait for it to cook properly. Its the best meal I've had since I've been here. The chicken curry I had on the 2 following days was not bad either. The next step might be goat. I'm trying to convince myself it will be like lamb. I'll let you know. Its bacon butties I really miss.
I was offered a new house. Not quite what I was expecting. Outside loo, shower and kitchen and on the other side of the wall from the mortuary which would have given me plenty opportunity to share every one's grief. Life is hard enough here without that so I rejected it in writing and was offered a decent house within 2 days. I can't move in for a month but that's OK. I'm really looking forward to getting my garden going and growing and getting some chickens. I don't know if I'll be happy about putting my own chickens in the pot but they better watch out if I have a midnight munchies. I've also had a kitten offered and I should be able to get it after my next course in Lilongwe. So I'm getting organised and should soon be really settled.
Orientation continues but I've only a few days left. After the Lilongwe course I should be able to get on with my job. I tried to use the new Internet cafe last week. The first place in Zomba to have WiFi unfortunately its slower than dial up and I didn't manage to log into my web page. I've also visited Blantyre where they have a couple of good shops that almost fool you into thinking that you are in Europe and you can get ice cream in an almost decent cafe.
Many thanks for all the kind offers of sending things out. I think I'm OK just now. JB has sent several parcels, all containing shoes, but they have not arrived yet. Once I'm properly in post there may be things that I'll need for work. Thanks too for all the comments its great to hear from everyone. Hope Tessa gets on well. Keep in touch.
I was offered a new house. Not quite what I was expecting. Outside loo, shower and kitchen and on the other side of the wall from the mortuary which would have given me plenty opportunity to share every one's grief. Life is hard enough here without that so I rejected it in writing and was offered a decent house within 2 days. I can't move in for a month but that's OK. I'm really looking forward to getting my garden going and growing and getting some chickens. I don't know if I'll be happy about putting my own chickens in the pot but they better watch out if I have a midnight munchies. I've also had a kitten offered and I should be able to get it after my next course in Lilongwe. So I'm getting organised and should soon be really settled.
Orientation continues but I've only a few days left. After the Lilongwe course I should be able to get on with my job. I tried to use the new Internet cafe last week. The first place in Zomba to have WiFi unfortunately its slower than dial up and I didn't manage to log into my web page. I've also visited Blantyre where they have a couple of good shops that almost fool you into thinking that you are in Europe and you can get ice cream in an almost decent cafe.
Many thanks for all the kind offers of sending things out. I think I'm OK just now. JB has sent several parcels, all containing shoes, but they have not arrived yet. Once I'm properly in post there may be things that I'll need for work. Thanks too for all the comments its great to hear from everyone. Hope Tessa gets on well. Keep in touch.
Wednesday, 27 June 2007
New Venue for Dunfermline Locality Meetings
On my way back from a VSO meeting in Senga Bay. I think we should consider it for our locality meetings. No pool but a 365 mile long lake to have a swim in before and after the meeting as well as at lunch time. Beautiful sandy beaches, complete with waves and not a crocodile in sight. It had the added bonus of being warm and quiet. Too bad about the balharzia!
It was good to meet all the other nurses and find out how they were managing in their placements. The issues seem to be the same everywhere so there is lots of peer support and understanding. Back to the real world tomorrow and the continuation of my orientation.
If anyone wants to write, letters should get to me at:
St Luke's Hospital
Box 21
Chilema
Zomba
Malawi
Mail takes about a month but it should get here. Sorry I'm not managing to get into my email. I hope everyone is well and enjoying the Scottish summer
It was good to meet all the other nurses and find out how they were managing in their placements. The issues seem to be the same everywhere so there is lots of peer support and understanding. Back to the real world tomorrow and the continuation of my orientation.
If anyone wants to write, letters should get to me at:
St Luke's Hospital
Box 21
Chilema
Zomba
Malawi
Mail takes about a month but it should get here. Sorry I'm not managing to get into my email. I hope everyone is well and enjoying the Scottish summer
Saturday, 23 June 2007
Never Leave Home Without Immodium
The Spanish tummy does not have a look in with the African tummy. I'm looking on it as part of the experience, a part I could well do without. Apart from that its been a good week.
I survived my first week's orientation in a paediatric ward. There were 60 beds and through out the week the number of children ranged from 201 and 240. 3-4 to a bed, very ill children mostly malaria and associated problems like meningitis, anaemia, febrile convulsions and pneumonia. The other main problems were TB and HIV. 40% of the children born in the hospital are HIV+ve. There were a lot of children with burns as well. Most of the families cook in doors over open fires with no ventilation leading to accidents and chest conditions later in life.
The nurses have to improvise all the time. They use giving sets to administer 02 and suction tubes for NG tubes. They don't have the right size if needles or cannula. Its horrible seeing a baby having a huge cannula put in their wee veins. They run out of drugs and equipment half way through the day and just accept it. If a drug is out of stock they don't think about using an alternative and although they improvise there appears to be a lack of initiative.
The ward staff welcomed me with open arms were so helpful all week and appreciated my input. I know I'll never question why I'm here. Some of the nursing practice is questionable and since I'm only doing orientation just now I'm not in a position to try to change things. There is little in the way of infection control but since most of the children are on massive doses of antibiotics it helps. There are no such things as nappies or rubber sheets on the beds and most of the beds are burst with the stuffing coming out so you probably get the picture.
When all is said and done the Malawians are such happy people with a wonderful capacity to laugh. They accept their lot and get on with it with dignity. We have a lot to learn from them. I've not had any more unwanted visitors to the house as far as I'm aware. The priest has threatened to visit later this afternoon so I've told him I'll be out late. I'm looking at another house later today so maybe I'll get something more permanent sooner than I thought.
I'm off to a VSO meeting for the first 3 days next week and the I have 2 days in the HIV clinic. I can't believe that will be my first month in. Thanks again for all the comments its good to hear from everyone. A special note for Sara "Tell your Mum its OK for you to visit".
I survived my first week's orientation in a paediatric ward. There were 60 beds and through out the week the number of children ranged from 201 and 240. 3-4 to a bed, very ill children mostly malaria and associated problems like meningitis, anaemia, febrile convulsions and pneumonia. The other main problems were TB and HIV. 40% of the children born in the hospital are HIV+ve. There were a lot of children with burns as well. Most of the families cook in doors over open fires with no ventilation leading to accidents and chest conditions later in life.
The nurses have to improvise all the time. They use giving sets to administer 02 and suction tubes for NG tubes. They don't have the right size if needles or cannula. Its horrible seeing a baby having a huge cannula put in their wee veins. They run out of drugs and equipment half way through the day and just accept it. If a drug is out of stock they don't think about using an alternative and although they improvise there appears to be a lack of initiative.
The ward staff welcomed me with open arms were so helpful all week and appreciated my input. I know I'll never question why I'm here. Some of the nursing practice is questionable and since I'm only doing orientation just now I'm not in a position to try to change things. There is little in the way of infection control but since most of the children are on massive doses of antibiotics it helps. There are no such things as nappies or rubber sheets on the beds and most of the beds are burst with the stuffing coming out so you probably get the picture.
When all is said and done the Malawians are such happy people with a wonderful capacity to laugh. They accept their lot and get on with it with dignity. We have a lot to learn from them. I've not had any more unwanted visitors to the house as far as I'm aware. The priest has threatened to visit later this afternoon so I've told him I'll be out late. I'm looking at another house later today so maybe I'll get something more permanent sooner than I thought.
I'm off to a VSO meeting for the first 3 days next week and the I have 2 days in the HIV clinic. I can't believe that will be my first month in. Thanks again for all the comments its good to hear from everyone. A special note for Sara "Tell your Mum its OK for you to visit".
Saturday, 16 June 2007
Two Weeks On
I'm in another slow internet shop. Dial up was never this slow at home. I'm learning a lot about Malawi things take a long time, the intention is good but things just don't happen when they should. They love paper work, in triplicate if possible, and lots of lengthy procedures for simple tasks.
My house was not ready for me so they arranged temporary accommodation but it wasn't ready for me so I had to stay with another volunteer. I moved into my temporary house yesterday. It has two rooms, kitchen, loo and bath. I spent a day cleaning it and it looks OK now. For the first time since arriving I have been able to unpack and put my cards and photos up. I've had 2 visitors the priest and a rat. The monkeys make a hell of a noise on the roof and the goats crap in the garden apart from that its OK. It will be 2-3 months before I get into my house for the rest of my placement. I can't get a phone put in until I'm there so my access to the internet is limited.
Everyone around has been very welcoming. The locals, particularly the children, stare all the time. It took me a while to realise its because I'm white. I sometimes entertain them by trying to speak Chichewa.
I'm in Zomba to go to the market. Its about 20 miles from where I live. The local transport is particularly dodgy. Its all mini buses the size of a transit van if your lucky they squeeze in 15 people including the driver. Sometimes the windows are missing. They stop for fuel at garages when they have collected enough money or if they get stuck the buy it in old cooking oil bottles from the side of the road. As well as 15 people they carry livestock, crates of empty bottles, anything dangerous goes.
I'm having to get used to BO and other offensive odours. The people here are so poor deodorant and soap are the last things on there shopping lists.
Starting 4 weeks orientation next week to register with the NMC here. It took lots of paperwork to arrange it.
I've not been able to answer any email on the shorty address but will try next week.
Thanks for all your comments it was really good to read them.
My house was not ready for me so they arranged temporary accommodation but it wasn't ready for me so I had to stay with another volunteer. I moved into my temporary house yesterday. It has two rooms, kitchen, loo and bath. I spent a day cleaning it and it looks OK now. For the first time since arriving I have been able to unpack and put my cards and photos up. I've had 2 visitors the priest and a rat. The monkeys make a hell of a noise on the roof and the goats crap in the garden apart from that its OK. It will be 2-3 months before I get into my house for the rest of my placement. I can't get a phone put in until I'm there so my access to the internet is limited.
Everyone around has been very welcoming. The locals, particularly the children, stare all the time. It took me a while to realise its because I'm white. I sometimes entertain them by trying to speak Chichewa.
I'm in Zomba to go to the market. Its about 20 miles from where I live. The local transport is particularly dodgy. Its all mini buses the size of a transit van if your lucky they squeeze in 15 people including the driver. Sometimes the windows are missing. They stop for fuel at garages when they have collected enough money or if they get stuck the buy it in old cooking oil bottles from the side of the road. As well as 15 people they carry livestock, crates of empty bottles, anything dangerous goes.
I'm having to get used to BO and other offensive odours. The people here are so poor deodorant and soap are the last things on there shopping lists.
Starting 4 weeks orientation next week to register with the NMC here. It took lots of paperwork to arrange it.
I've not been able to answer any email on the shorty address but will try next week.
Thanks for all your comments it was really good to read them.
Sunday, 3 June 2007
Made It
Arrived with all Luggage in tact. Staying in Lilongwe for a week to try to get the basics of the language and do some registration for working and living here. We were brought into town to an internet and telephone cafe. The internet is slower than I ever remember it and they have run out of phone cards. We are all a bit tired after the journey. We are quite a large group of volunteers from Canada, Usa, Holland, Spain, Nigeria and the UK. I don't know if I will manage back again or have to wait for internet access at my placement. I got a photo of the sunrise from the plane it was quite spectacular. Its has been a really pleasant day with a temperature of 22C and a gentle breeze. the locals think its cold!
Saturday, 2 June 2007
Last word Before I Go
Well I always have to have the last word!
The hardest bit is coming, withdrawing from chocolate and alcohol, fitting in the rest of my shoes and trying to remember what I've forgotten.
I may not have internet access for a few weeks but I'll update the blog as soon as I can.
Thanks to everyone for their kindness and thoughtfulness. I've packed my cards and gifts and I've all the wonderful memories of the leaving dos.
Speak to you soon
Carol
Wednesday, 30 May 2007
More Food and Fun
Angie and Elaine, I never failed to impress
them with my admin skills! Jenny, Anne and Natasha "the Organisers"
thanks girls
Another Do!
We had yet another lovely celebration for my trip to Malawi. If ever there was a good multidisciplinary meeting we had one today. There was someone from every department in the building. The highlight was Lesley singing she even did an encore. The goodbyes continue, it does not get any easier. I've had so many lovely cards, I'm going to take them all to Malawi and read them in my time of need. More presents too, everyone has been so thoughtful and supportive. Many thanks to everyone.
Monday, 28 May 2007
The A team
Meet the others going to Malawi to train nurses:
Kate on the left, a real nurse tutor from Brighton University; Ally next to me an A&E and AIDS nurse; Clare, tropical diseases nurse. Apart from Kate who is the real thing when it comes to teaching the rest of us have a teaching course and a great mix of experience.
Ally and Clare have been placed together near Thyolo, the tea plantation area. they have had to sign the pledge, no booze, no jewelry, no make up. Kate is going to the university in Mzuzu. Which all means I'll have plenty places to visit.
More Thanks!
From scalpals and sunblock to a chicken husbandry book and reading glasses the list goes on of very generous and useful gifts that I have been given to help me on my way. Lunches and dinners, drinks and desserts, it does not stop. I'll end up having withdrawals when I get to Malawi.
Rhona gave me the whip round on Friday. It was exceptionally generous. With the whip round and the money Fiona gave me I have purchased a camcorder. Its the best piece of technology I have ever seen. It has an "easy" button. Once its set it does the rest for you. Sony must have had me in mind when they made it.
Many thanks to everyone that has sent cards, donations and gifts. They will all be put to good use in Malawi. This photo was taken by Jan a photographer from the Alloa Advertiser. He kindly sent a couple on to me. thanks Jan.
Tuesday, 22 May 2007
Where am I?
Click here here to see a map of the area I will be living in. I'll be about 25 miles from Zomba, 2,000 feet up mount Molosa at St Luke's Hospital. I'll also be 30 minutes from Zomba Plateau and Liwonde National Park in the other direction.
Picture This
Some photos from the night out. We had alovely meal, good company and a few wines. We had to, its in the job description. thanks to all the girls and james for coming along.
I've had my 15 minutes of fame. It was really only 15 seconds on Central FM. I was interviewed about going to Mallaway so they had to edit most of it out. Now the photographers are queuing up to take my picture. I had to put them off today because I didn't have make up at work. I think at least one is coming tomorrow and that could be particularly dodgy because its my night out tonight. the Fife courier, The Dunfermline press and the Alloa times all want to do something on me going. News must be short this week! NHSfife are also putting something in their newsletter.
This is me! Well it was me down the canyon in2005. It demonstrates what it feels like just now. Jumping into the unknown. 11 days to go, 7 leaving lunches/nights out that I know of and I've still not decided what shoes to take. I hope its like sitting an exam, you get all hyped up and anxious about it then you realise you can only do your best and chill out and get on with it. I think I'm due for the chill out. I'll keep you posted.
I've had my 15 minutes of fame. It was really only 15 seconds on Central FM. I was interviewed about going to Mallaway so they had to edit most of it out. Now the photographers are queuing up to take my picture. I had to put them off today because I didn't have make up at work. I think at least one is coming tomorrow and that could be particularly dodgy because its my night out tonight. the Fife courier, The Dunfermline press and the Alloa times all want to do something on me going. News must be short this week! NHSfife are also putting something in their newsletter.This is me! Well it was me down the canyon in2005. It demonstrates what it feels like just now. Jumping into the unknown. 11 days to go, 7 leaving lunches/nights out that I know of and I've still not decided what shoes to take. I hope its like sitting an exam, you get all hyped up and anxious about it then you realise you can only do your best and chill out and get on with it. I think I'm due for the chill out. I'll keep you posted.
Thanks
I know that going to Malawi for a couple of years is a bit different. I could never have imagined the support that I was going to get from friends, family and even complete strangers. I'd like to thank so many people who have helped me on my way. JB my husband has been there all the way with me through the application process, the ups and downs and the packing and unpacking, the shoping, the paperwork and the goodbye dos.
Fiona a GP from Leven who I had never met before contacted me to offer support. She also sent a very generous cheque to purchase something to take to Malawi. Ann and Dave Hatton gave me money to purchase gardening tools and seeds to plant a garden. James and Ileene Anderson gave me information and support with medcines that I might need when I'm away. Rhona has really supported me with time off for training and preparation. Elsie bought me a wonderful backpack. Spencer got me a laptop for teaching in Malawi. And of course Mike for setting up the website. The list goes on. I have been given so many things to take out such as blood pressure monitors, stethoscopes, fob watches, memory sticks, pens, torches, tool cards. I've also had extra training from colleagues that will be very useful. There's too many to mention. All support has been really appreciated, all the good wishes and cards mean a lot. I think its often easy to forget how many good people there are around but they are there all the time.
So a great big thanks to everyone!
Carol vists Calecom for Tutorial
Who thought I couldn't setup a website? You were quite right. Mike O'Donnell set it up for me. Mike, otherwise known as Lesley O'D's husband, has been providing a service for the girls in room 101 for sometime. I should add that this has been encouraged by Lesley. Any IT problem we had we asked Lesley, if she couldn't answer she would phone Mike who never let us down. So a big thanks to Mike. Not only has he set this up for me he has used a system that I could use after 30 minutes. He is going to back it up with an idiots guide which also shows how perceptive he is. Mike is director of Calecom in Dunfermline.
Tuesday, 15 May 2007
My New Home
This is not a picture of my new home but there is nothing wrong with dreaming. I'll post a photo as soon as I can.
I've been told that I'll have a house in the hospital grounds. I should have basic furniture provided and VSO give a grant to purchase necessary household items. I should also be given a fridge and water filter. I'm really looking forward to seeing it and getting settled. If everything else is tough having a nice wee home will bring some comfort.
I've been told that I'll have a house in the hospital grounds. I should have basic furniture provided and VSO give a grant to purchase necessary household items. I should also be given a fridge and water filter. I'm really looking forward to seeing it and getting settled. If everything else is tough having a nice wee home will bring some comfort.
In Preparation of Departure
Most of the preparation has now been done, although it dosen't always feel like that. I've done my training with VSO, I've had my jabs, I must remember to start my anti malarials at the weekend, and I've got my flight tickets. My packing has been done and redone and no doubt will be done again. I've sold my car, got enough antibiotics to last a lifetime and I've got the house turned upside down with things all over the place.
I've had my psychotherapy to address my snake phobia or should I say my ex phobia. I'm working through my goodbyes, which is probably the hardest part, and I'm think about tidying my desk at work. I'll have to invite people into the office to see it when it is tidy or no one will believe me.
I've still to do odd bits of paper work including ordering my newspaper and organising insurance. I think I'm getting there.
I've had my psychotherapy to address my snake phobia or should I say my ex phobia. I'm working through my goodbyes, which is probably the hardest part, and I'm think about tidying my desk at work. I'll have to invite people into the office to see it when it is tidy or no one will believe me.
I've still to do odd bits of paper work including ordering my newspaper and organising insurance. I think I'm getting there.
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