So I've arrived in Kagando, via Mbarara, where we stayed for two nights visiting my friend's family & a great museum. Our journey has taken us through the rift valley & queen elizabeth national park, with outstanding views & we even saw some elephants on the way, so I had a chance to get my binoculars out. We approached Kagando with stunning views of the Rwenzori mountain range a backdrop, absolutely incredible. I traced old footsteps as we approached the edward clay house, my home for the next six weeks, & where I and the tearfund girls stayed 7.5 years ago. It feels great to be back. My friend, Jerry & I, explored the area, & were impressed with the new nursing school that has been built here, & that also has wireless!! But unfortunately our football/badminton/volleyball pitch has gone. After admiring the mountains & yearning to go trekking in them, I unpacked my things, washed my white coat, & made myself at home shortly before meeting some other elective students. I have learnt that tomorrow morning after breakfast, we have chapel at 8, & then usually ward rounds at 8.30, however I will first make introductions with Dr Sheila. I can't wait to get started.
 

So I'm just about to leave Kampala & city living to head west to Kagando via Mbarara for the second part of my elective placement. My aim for the first two weeks at Nsambya were to prepare me for my work in Kagando, as I'm expecting a heavier work load & more responsibility. So I feel my time in Nsambya has met these objectives, refreshed my knowledge & skills in Obstetrics & Gynaecology. I really enjoyed my last day at Nsambya.hospital, especially that it ended with another delivery of a healthy baby in theatre. My walk back to the guest house was great, as I bumped into some of the hospital staff, I reflected on how at home I feel here. One thing I particularly love is seeing the children playing outside, happily chasing each other or dancing with huge smiles & loud laughter. Uganda really has a rich culture. The sadest thing I've encountered so far, was the death of a premature baby born in theatre yesterday.

My second weekend has so far consisted of white water rafting on the nile. It was an incredible experience & made even more exciting by rafting with two british olympions!

First days

So, I've arrived in Uganda to start my medical elective. I'll be in Uganda for 10 weeks before I head south for an overland trip. I spent Easter weekend joining in my friend & his family's celebrations, which involved several ugandan meals, gatherings, games & church. Since Monday I started work at Nsambya Hospital in Kampala in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. I have assisted on labour ward, the operating theatres & antenatal clinics so far.