Saturday, August 8, 2009

Scattered Thoughts

On Finishing at the Clinic
From Sue and Taz

Final good-byes were offered to kids, families and Armonizar professionals and staff.
Tears were shed, hugs, kissed, cards and gifts were exchanged. It was obvious that despite our short visit and language barriers positive relationships were established.

When we reflect on our week, we are all feeling that we have gained far more than we have provided - even in light of the fundraising, donations, hard work, preparation, Spanish lessons, hours spent developing tools and resources, rehearing in-services in Spanish, preparing and providing assessment and treatment sessions .........

So what do we think we´ve gained ....well to begin with a new found respect and appreciation for the challenges that professionals in developing nations deal with and work around everyday, a greater sense of thankfulness for what we have in Canada, an understanding of the meaning and nature of human relationships, an awareness that professionals here take on huge voluntary committments to clinics like Armonizar (where the ENT, dentists, SLP, geneticist, pediatrician all offer their professional services on a volunteer basis at evening consultations). A true testament that the sum is greater than the individual parts, and a living example of solidarity in action. We are sure that the students will share their own personal reflections regarding their week later in the blog!

We finished the day with a concert by local Peruvian musicians. Be sure to check out the FlickR account for a short video clip of the concert! Early night as we have to be up and out to the airport by 3:00 am to get to Cusco.

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