Tocoa

Today was hands down the most organized and smoothest clinic. There is a lot to be said for trial and error, and even more to be said for individual fans at each station. The school that housed us was incredibly prepared, and the group rotated responsibilities giving the kids team a break, runners breaks and providers breaks, all giving the pharmacy some well deserved back up. Today was also one of rougher days. There were some incredibly sick people, this was the first time that we had set up clinics there, and the difference from day one, where the group goes regularly, to a new clinic, was huge. Everything was treated today, and we even ran out some meds. There were infections of all kinds, bladder, UTI, STI, kidney, strep, etc. Gretchen stitched a man's hand, good work! Jennifer pulled out the world's largest ball of ear wax, beating Keri in a wax ball competition. Both patients had ruptured ear drums though, not a result of the wax competition, along with a third later on. Bob has taken it on himself to provide prostate medication for patients, we do not have those with us, and he will be sending these back to the villages. Once again the Gianotto's, Morgan and Maddy survived the kids, and Dave has earned himself runner MVP (probably to not have to go back to kids....) Shannon performed two pelvic exams, in my new boyfriends bedroom. Because his house was behind the school, and we needed privacy. After he hurriedly and slightly embarrassed hid his dirty laundry, we were left alone. I would like to take a moment to explain the house, which is actually a nice one for where we were. Concrete. Cinder blocks. Tin roof. Minimal ventilation. Four bed two bath, with the kitchen apart (which would be more comfortable I'm sure). It was like being cooked alive. No wonder they are all willing to hang out all day watching. The gringos magically assemble, perform and take down a medical clinic in one day. Besides the aforementioned ailments there were also pregnancys' , kidney failure, goiters, a two year old that peed on the floor and a bike limousine. Tomorrow is a much needed, and even more well earned, break. Some of us will be snorkeling and some of us will be vegging by the pool. Thursday it's right back to it!