Block Partay!: 10-20

Today was basically my perfect day. We got to join an American short term team and do a cleanup day in Mathare North. It rocked. There was basically a huge block party going down complete with loud music and a dance off for the kids. There was some group there doing AIDS awareness. I know I definitely enjoyed the music while I was shoveling up sludge.

After lunch, I got to shadow a doctor in consultation. It was so much fun. It was neat to listen to his line of questioning with the patients to figure out what was wrong. Since they can’t run any tests, the doctors and nurses have to rely on a physical examination with chief complaints. Basically, all the young boys have ringworms on their heads due to unsanitary razors used on their heads. Luckily it’s an easy fix with some cream. Lots of people had bacterial infections as well.

At the clinic, we saw tons of people. I am always amazed at how many people come for healthcare. But, honestly, I would totally go to a free clinic if I was sick even in America. However, many people in Mathare simply cannot afford medical treatment. And if they can afford the clinic visit, many cannot afford the meds. It really is a blessing to be able to provide free treatment complete with meds.