We returned to work at the hospital on Monday given a radiant infant warmer and a surgical light. Although it was easy to diagnose the problem with both, they need parts that can’t be bought in Tanzania. Hopefully the next Clemson group that goes later this summer will be able to bring the necessary parts. These pieces of equipment were the last that the hospital had for us to fix, which is good news! After work, Nathan played soccer with the boys at the school while I got way too cozy with some scorpions watching from the sidelines.
Since today (Tuesday) was our last day, we took everyone (except those fasting for Ramadan) at the office out for lunch at the restaurant owned by Rachel's family. We also gifted Mshamu (our babu/grandfather) with the set of tools we used throughout the trip. He was the happiest I’ve ever seen any human being! His smile stretched ear to ear for hours and he couldn’t say thanks enough! Mshamu is the driver for the study’s field vehicle, but also the resident handyman. He worked with us throughout the trip to fix several things in the office when we weren’t working at the hospital. I have no doubt that those tools will be put to good use in his hands! You can see him in the picture below crouching in his go-to pose with two thumbs up.
We then said our tough goodbyes to everyone and headed to the airport, where I sit typing this now (although I’ll have to post it from home with a better wifi connection). I want to thank everyone from Clemson who contributed to make this trip possible, especially Dr. Delphine Dean and the Dean of CECAS, Dr. Anand Gramopadhye. It has been such a meaningful month full of opportunities to apply what I’ve learned to help those in need as well as travel and experience a new culture. I’d also like to extend a huge thank you to our Tanzanian family—I have never met a more welcoming group of people. Literally, you can’t make it through a day here without hearing “Karibu!” (Welcome!) at least 100 times. We will miss you all so much! Last but not least, thank you to those of you reading this blog. I hope you’ve enjoyed following along on our adventure!
