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Today we visited the only hospital in Matagalpa. In fact it is the closest hospital within 5 or 6 hours and it was quite the experience. It really is tough to describe today's experience but it certainly makes you grateful for the things that we take for granted.
There were so many patients and there seemed to be an endless number of hallways. The hospital is absolutely enormous! Here we saw 9 women in one room with their newborn babies...no privacy curtains, no air conditioning and what seemed to be little medical attention. We handed out 70 layette bags filled with all sorts of goodies for the new moms but it was nowhere near enough...we could have easily brought 170 bags and still run short. There were mothers and grandmothers following us through the halls to trying to get a bag from us but there just wasn't enough.
A couple of the ladies had the opportunity to visit the delivery room and in looking at the pictures looks like it accommodates a few deliveries at a time. there equipment seems clean and similar to ours in Canada but there was definitely a lack of privacy.
Apparently it is law here that all mother must breast feed for 6 months, no formula, no exceptions.
We had a translator with us and she was able to tell us what the mothers were saying along the way...they were very grateful for the supplies (diapers, pins, blankets, sleepers and clothes, sewing kits, toys, socks, bibs, etc...) as they came with nothing...one woman said this was her 9th baby and she preferred to jus deliver in her room with her family.
We did make up some bags for mothers that may have lots their baby during the delivery...we handed out one of those.
It was interesting to watch Lauren when we saw a few women in labour...that was definitely a new experience for her.
I remember complaining about having to share my room with one other person the last time I was in the hospital...we are very fortunate to have what we have.
This afternoon we went back to the re-nutrition centre to see our new little friends...I have such a good time with the little babies and Lauren got a chance to bond with the little guy from the other day. Today appeared to be family day so there were a few moms there to see their children. That was emotional...I can't begin to imagine what it would be like to leave a sick child and only come once in a while to see them. The little ones were so sad to see their moms leave so there were lots of tears this afternoon.
Lauren has gone into town with a couple others to check out the Internet Cafe...I'm sure she is all over her facebook (again)...I can't get her away from it even from Nicaragua!
Tomorrow is a free day so we will be going to the market...I hear Pizza is one the menu for dinner!! :)
Allie, thank you for your email...yes, we are consistently reminded that it is an election year. He was actually in town on Tuesday and we were instructed to remain inside the building. Its been fine though.
That's all for now...thank you to everyone that has been sending emailing and messaging on the blog. The plan is to have a book made of the adventure upon our return so all of your comments will be included...thank you!
Adios!
- comments
Mom Hi kiddo. Is it ever good to hear from you!!! Your experiences seem rather overwhelming. I think it must have been hard not to have enough bags for everyone. What can you do??? Try to get some rest on your free day, okay? Miss you and always check for new info. Love you both Mom
Rebecca I look forward everyday to reading your blog and hearing updates from you and Lauren. So glad to hear that things are well and the difference you are making. This experience must be life changing for you both. Miss you lots and love you! xoxoxo
Rita Vella We check your blog everyday here in our little cubby and are overwhelmed at your stories. Definately makes you think about what you have and how appreciative you are to have good health. Continue to stay safe and have a safe return.
Pam Tolmay Pam Hi Sara and Lauren, You are seeing and doing so much that is having a huge impact on you emotionally. When you get back you are going to need to talk about it all. I will be there to listen. It is hard to try and communicate such an intense experience. You will feel as though you want everyone to go and see for themselves so they can "really" understand. Remember that your love and your service on each of these days you have been there can't be duplicated by anyone else and that you are where God wants you to be. lots of love, Pam