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The
lessons
One
of the hardest lessons to learn when one begins to do mission
work is that one must leave behind the reality that is ones own,
and step into the reality of the place that one goes…by this I
mean that we cannot expect others in a world so different from
ours to see things, or do things, as we do. We must watch them
and enter into the world to which we have traveled.
In
medicine, this may mean turning ones way of practicing around,
for all of the technological aspects of medicine in our country
may not exist. Each place is different, each mission is different,
and you must accept what is there and move forward within that
framework. Too often we compare, and that is not helpful.
The
second lesson is that it is OK to ask for help…before you go,
while you are there, and when you return. This often is a life
changing experience for those who walk within it, and it is difficult
to accept that others who have not been there do not see things
as you do with your collective memory. That is also OK.
The
third lesson is that people truly do want to give, to help---if
only they have a mechanism to do it. There is an incredible wealth
of good in mankind, and it is wonderful to see it opened. Do not
feel odd asking---it helps those who give, as well as you, and
the people you serve, when help is given.
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How we do it
We
have become experts at saving and recycling for our trip, especially
in the OR. There is so much waste in this country, and, if you
solicit the help of the OR crew, it is amazing what you can salvage
from each case that normally would have been thrown away. We begin
sorting through our collection boxes about 6 weeks before we go,
and separate, categorize, repack, and resterilize each article,
using care to gas not steam the paper products,
as they will melt.
When
we go to the mountains, we take all that we use, making a sterile
pack for each case and also additional materials. We take sutures,
blades, some instruments, anesthesia equipment, etc. (including
brooms, or anything else you can think you might need). We determine
the maximum weight for each person, and pack boxes accordingly,
attaching a list of articles within as well as carrying a master
list (to help with customs). This works very well. Wearing nametags
that state your country, your destination, your name and profession,
as well as your sponsoring organization also helps to get through
customs.
Each
place is different---find out as much as you can about it. This
will help immensely before you go. Remember you are a guest in
another's world.
Do
not be afraid, for you are doing God's work, and that is what
you must realize.
Sylvia
D. Campbell, MD
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