February 13, 2012

Last day of Mtubatuba Clinic and Weekend Expeditions

By ahoutman

We closed the week in Mtubatuba having served 3,866 grateful, happy South Africans. It is remarkable how efficiently we are operating, in both serving our patients as well as setting up and taking down clinic. We really are a busy little beehive (see the yellow shirts - it was only a matter of time before the bee analogy). We have detected detached retinas, diabetic retinopathy and AIDS related eye diseases and high numbers of glaucoma. 

The old "gogos" (grandmothers) especially touch my heart. They are the most demonstrative in this somewhat reserved culture - I can't count the number hugs and praises such as "Now I can read my Bible!" or "You have made me a beautiful grandmother!" we have received. The beautiful babies and children certainly aren't lacking for attention with our group (Ellie is making me tell you that she is spending more time "squishing baby guts" than doing actual work - which if have been on clinic with Ellie, you will know what that means - and also that she never really stops working). While I was working the autorefractor, a group of school boys came through, and, as if on dare, the naughty, bolder ones would bashfully whisper "I love you!" as they passed by, causing a wave of giggles. So funny - kids will be kids in any culture!

Our off days provided much needed rest and recovery (we were dragging by Friday night!). We went on a game drive on Saturday, where we took in the vast expanse of South Africa and spotted elephants, giraffes, zebras...but no cats (sorry Scott!). Saturday night many team members experienced local culture and dance at the Bit by Bit, and Sunday there was choice of a Zulu village tour, shopping, beach walking (braver team members took a dip in the Indian Ocean) and a river tour (with hippos galore!). We ended the weekend with a silent auction fund-raiser amongst our team, where George, a veteran with 21 missions under his belt, (who claims he is "retiring" after this, although I, for one, don't believe he will be able to give this up!), outbid everyone for the coveted OneSight crystal.

We are en route for our third site, and just passed giraffe, zebra and buffalo literally on the side of the road - what a country! Wish us well as we embark on four more days of helping the world to see!

Safari!

8 Comments

  1. Ashley @5541 says:

    Sounds like you all have had a wonderful time in South Africa :) The experiences and knowing that you helped people have sight to this beautiful world is all worth it I’m Sure ! I know first hand how it feels not being able to see without glasses or contacts and it puts joy in my heart to know that so many were helped :) Maybe one day I can join in on all the hard work and fun! Hope everyone in the clinic has safe travels home and see you soon Max! Your team @5541 in Pier Park misses you :) Hugs
    Much love,
    Ashley@5541

    Posted on Mon Feb 13, 2012 11:58 am EST

  2. Carla Lakay says:

    Wishing all of you the best for week two :-). You guys are doing an amazing job. Going by Jeanine’s pics you guys look like an awesome bunch. Special hugs to Jeanine, Jacky, Odette, Coenie, Ellie and Bill.
    P.S I’ve been squished by Ellie!!!
    Xxxxx

    Posted on Mon Feb 13, 2012 12:39 pm EST

  3. Andy Cheek says:

    Hey gang,

    I too have been squished by Ellie!  It sounds like a great clinic for you guys!  Keep up the great work and don’t forget many pictures on Facebook.

    Take Care,
    Andy Cheek 165

    Posted on Mon Feb 13, 2012 3:11 pm EST

  4. Shamim Hussen says:

    Hey,Dr.Ali and the team.You all have been doing a wonderful job.I believe all your energy,talent and perseverance shall all make it happen.Find the beauty in everyday rituals.I hope your new site brings lot of accolades and get you all inspired.Bless you all!! Shamim

    Posted on Mon Feb 13, 2012 7:59 pm EST

  5. Lisa Barbour says:

    Sounds amazing…love hearing about all the African wildlife and the Incredible Gift of Sight you all are providing….please tell Sara and Darla hello for me from Colorado…miss them both…keep the great blogging up…ps if anyones listening I want yellow for The Gambia in May :-)

    Posted on Mon Feb 13, 2012 8:24 pm EST

  6. Traci Noonan says:

    Thanks to you all for sharing the Luxottica spirit around the globe, and then for sharing the journey with us.  It is truly heartwarming to read your incredible tales.  Know that your stories go beyond the clinic you serve.  Can’t wait to hear all about your personal experiences, Anita!  We miss you!  Treasure this life altering experience….and everyone have a safe trip home.

    Posted on Mon Feb 13, 2012 11:13 pm EST

  7. christine wilson says:

    Best wishes for the last week to all.Thanks for your hard work. Safe jouneys back home.

    Posted on Tue Feb 14, 2012 4:52 am EST

  8. Anna says:

    Ciao Antonio!
    Siamo felici di sentire che stai avendo una bella esperienza! Non vediamo l’ora di sentire i tuoi racconti. Ci manchi e la prossima volta mandiamo Corrado e tu resti qui con noi. Un abbraccio e a presto, Anna & Paola

    Posted on Tue Feb 14, 2012 8:37 am EST

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