category archive: Uganda
blog No. 92
December 14th.
Writing from Uganda – Part 2
posted by: Joe Stillwell
Just returned from our second clinic day.
We visited a small village called Bulima about an hour outside of Masindi. My assignment today was to assist one of the doctors performing the exams and diagnosing patients. I was completely blown away by the people’s resilience.
One of the first women we saw had diabetes, ulcers and arthritis and still works in her garden every day. Many of these patients can be helped with things as simple as clean water or Tylenol… Things we completely take for granted in the United States. As heartbreaking as that is, their hope is inspirational.
At the end of the day Bear and I played a few songs for them with his guitar and a drum that I just got yesterday in the local market. When we were done I asked if anyone could show me some African drumming. A couple of the men happily volunteered and started playing my drum (way better than I did.) As they played, some of the same people we had treated earlier in the day got up and started dancing. It was one of the best examples I’ve ever seen of hope in the face of adversity.
- Joe
For more information about Palmetto Medical Inititative click HERE and find out how you can support them or participate in a trip like mine.
