The beautiful children of Mali
We were touched by the beautiful children and families of Mali!
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Fifth and sixth (final) day of clinic and surgery
On Thursday we saw 10 patients in clinic and performed 8 surgeries and on Friday we saw 3 patients in clinic and performed 6 surgeries. Overall we have seen 122 patients and performed 39 surgeries this week. Most of the surgeries have been to treat severe pelvic prolapse and large uterine fibroids. We are very grateful for our Bambara to English interpreters! We were able to scrub with Malian surgeons on many of the cases. Cathryn was able to provide instruction for one of the patients going home regarding the Days for Girls kits that each postoperative patient received. We toured the maternity unit and also met a family who had a baby last week who unfortunately has a significant birth defect. We are hopeful that the Pediatric surgery she will need is available in Bamako, the capital city.
Fourth day of clinic and surgery and village visit
On Wednesday our team saw 18 patients in clinic and performed 5 surgeries. We also visited the village of Korobougou which is about 30 minutes outside of Ouelessebougou. We learned about how they pound millet flour, spin cotton, and make shea butter from shea nuts. They also taught us how to dance Malian style! We met the village chief. Shea butter
Fourth day of clinic and surgery and village visit
On Wednesday our team saw 18 patients in clinic and performed 5 surgeries. We also visited the village of Korobougou which is about 30 minutes outside of Ouelessebougou. We learned about how they pound millet flour, spin cotton, and make shea butter from shea nuts. They also taught us how to dance Malian style! We met the village chief. Shea butter
Third clinic and surgery day and neighborhood visit
Today our team saw 12 patients in clinic and performed 7 surgeries. We also visited some some local people in the neighborhood with the director of Ouelessebougou Alliance. It was delightful to meet these Malian families and see where and how they live.
Second clinic and surgery day
On Monday our team performed 7 surgeries and saw 25 patients in clinic. Two of the surgeries were more complicated and took several hours. We finished surgery about 9 pm. Cathryn observed part of one of the surgeries for the first time. Our team is tired but in good spirits!
Our first clinic and surgery day
Today our team saw 55 patients in clinic and performed 8 surgeries. I was happy that the first patient I saw spoke French fluently, so that I could communicate with her. Unfortunately, the other patients only spoke Bambara, so we were very grateful to have our amazing interpreters who all wear orange shirts. It was a pleasure to meet our patients and their families. Our armed guards! The mosque at the hospital The hospital mascot?