Honduras

Video Review Volunteer Camilla Farrell Honduras La Ceiba Health Care program https://www.abroaderview.org What was the most surprising thing you experienced? At the program: I knew going into this that the healthcare would be at a lower standard than in the US, but I don´t think I could have possibly prepared myself for what it is actually like. The clinic is located in a very old and worn-down building, and very unsanitary. It is very dark in certain places and just overall the funding is not enough to keep things maintained. At the accommodation: Having a constant wi-fi connection! I was prepared for limited wi-fi opportunities here and there but it was nice to be able to always keep in contact with my family and friends and especially for them to know I was safe. Another pleasant surprise for me was lack of bugs! After reading many previous reviews, I´ll be honest, bugs were probably my biggest fear! There were definitely flying insects all around (including mosquitos) so bug spray is crucial, but they weren´t as bad as I had expected. However in my actual bedroom, there were rarely any even though windows were partially open to the outside. Do keep in mind that it may fluctuate with time of year. About the country: The fact that there were many chain fast-food places! (Burger King, Dunkin Donuts, Little Caesars) and a Mall. Any tips for future volunteers… Clothing: Enough to last for at least a week (we´ve been doing laundry once a week at a laundromat). 6-7 pairs of scrubs. You must change into new, clean scrubs to go into labor and delivery areas or the OR. Light clothing (both material and color). Watershoes can be useful if you´re doing a water activity such as rafting because you walk through some wooded areas and I didn´t want to walk barefoot. A couple of towels…for shower and beach. Donations: Anything and everything. Stuff your suitcase to the max (but beware of airline weight limits so you don´t get charged). And then buy locally. Medication needs will vary, but they are constantly running out and sending patients away. If it’s not available at the clinic pharmacy (where they pay a flat fee to get in and then the meds are included) there is a good chance they won’t have the money to go out and buy it elsewhere. Ibuprofen 400mg, acetaminophen 500mg, baby aspirin (81mg in US, or 100mg in some other countries), prenatal vitamins, amoxicillin 500mg. Also, gauze, gloves, blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, caps/booties/masks for the OR/L&D.; Weather: It is super super hot and humid (varies during the year). I have sweat more here than I ever have in my life! Be prepared for this by wearing light clothing and most importantly constantly drink water throughout the day. Bring refillable water bottles as some places have purified water sources that you can use to refill (Rafael´s house for example has 1, but I´m not sure about other houses). Otherwise, you can buy bottled water at multiple places nearby. Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial), don’t leave blank: This has been one of the most incredible, yet most heart-breaking experiences of my life. The people here are so welcoming and appreciative of anything at all you can provide them and they love to share their culture. People can tell you all they want about what conditions are like in countries like these, but you will never truly understand until you´ve seen and experienced it yourself. If you are a student, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn while helping at the same time. If you are a practicing professional, this is a wonderful opportunity to lend your expertise while also likely learning some new things (such as how to do more with less). I would highly recommend this program for anyone with a passion to help, but also willing to experience new things (both good and bad) that they never have before.

• published: 28 Oct 2015
• views: 1318