Monday, July 17, 2006

Out of Office

I know many of you have been anxiously awaiting my next post, so I'm sorry I've left you in suspense. I've been away from camp for the past several days and will continue to be away for another week or so. I'm currently working public affairs stuff in Kenya with a military medical team doing medical stuff.

This is one of the more fascinating aspects of my job. We're going to several small villages in obscure locations and they're treating hundreds of people that otherwise wouldn't be able to get medical treatment. Some of the people have traveled many kilometers for care. Many are too poor, too ill, or would have to travel much further to purchase the medicines that we often take for granted and pick up at Wal-mart such as pain relievers, cough syrup, and vitamins. Some are coming, seemingly, only to restock their medicine chests for ailments that they suffer at other times. But there have been some astounding cases so far with people afflicted with open wounds caused by parasites or injuries not healing properly because of infection. Others are treated for malaria or worms. There have been a couple of patients who've been previously diagnosed with cancer, etc but they're not getting the proper treatment (again because of limiting factors). It's unfortunate that the team can't treat all of the illnesses they see. However, I've spoken to several locals and overall people have been grateful that the medical team came.

Sorry there are no pics posted yet, but stay tuned for some in future postings.

Have camera. Will travel,

Marty

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Glad to hear you are enjoying yourself in Kenya. When you say you spoke to some of the villagers, did you have to use a translator? Just wondering! We miss you back home.

Love,
Vanessa and Aiden

Anonymous said...

Going overseas really makes you appreciate the good ol' USA. It's amazing what some people in different countries live with while Americans complain over hot coffee and sue for millions..... Take care and get back home soon - Angi

Anonymous said...

Glad to know you are seeing the other side of the world in all its glory. You will be getting a guest from Vance PA shortly. His name is Capt.Tony Wickman. Called him gave someone in office your blog address. Luv Ya, MOM