Getting Ready

   

I'm returning to lead a surgical team in western Tanzania this summer. I'll be using this blog to keep in touch so if you want to keep up with my craziness go to the site and I'll do my best to paint an accurate picture. Now it's just four weeks to go. My trip back to Tanzania is motivated somewhat differently than last year. Then it was about fascination with the unknown, the chance to do some remarkable photography and the probability that I would be able to do some good. Now the unknown part is over - I know what to expect and am much better prepared mentally for the arduous journey with its strange sights and smells. I also know how to find accommodations in transit that provide enough security to let me close my eyes and survive the night.. The photography part has narrowed. Instead of trying to paint a hodge-podge panorama with my camera my focus will be limited. I've been given an assignment by Emirates Airline, which is sponsoring my trip, to do a piece on the children of Africa. That's still a huge subject but having been there I know where the stories are and intend to capture them.
    The medical part, however, has taken front position. When I left Sumbawanga and it's large, under-supplied hospital last summer I was devastated by my inability to provide even the simplest care that could have been lifesaving.  Severe burns and  serious infections went untreated or inadequately managed simply because the means to treat them were not there. I performed major surgery using only the barest of essential equipment and got surprisingly good but not acceptable (to me) results. I am taking a good supply of sutures and other equipment, as well as some medications with me and have been successful in getting others to donate items. However, I have no illusions about being able to solve all the problems. My focus this trip will be to provide training for the many people who, thought barely educated, make up the bulk of the hospital staff and provide care on a daily basis. This will not be easy. They are a proud group and jealously guard their positions. However, as a returning physician and not a one-time interloper, I believe I will have their trust.
    The main challenge right now is to get ready physically. A dumb skiing accident in March resulted in complicated shoulder surgery April 1. With intensive physical therapy the goal is to get the shoulder at least pain free if not fully functional by the time I have to leave. I'm working hard at it and it's not fun. Other tasks include stuffing as much equipment as possible into a duffel bag, getting politicians in Tanzania to grease the customs wheels for me so I don't get hung up on my way in and contacting the doctors and other personnel with whom I will be working. There's lots to do. Stay tuned.

Comments

[Ric Felder]

Skip ... off to another humanitarian adventure.
We'll be following your blog ... a great idea.
Post lot's of photos, they really add to your stories!

Ric & Kim

[Harriet Yiambilis]

Hi Skip...Good luck it sounds fantastic. Please stay safe. Can't wait to read your blogs.

Harriet