The End of Our First Week

     On Friday, Bill broke off from the group to meet with Yvonne Spain, a former elected official and one of the organizers of Thokomala Nahte, a fledgling NGO, which should be the backbone for much of Bill's work.  Bill was also put in touch with Hennie's son, a partner with a very large law firm in Johannesburg.  He will advise pertaining the legalstructure of what we are doing, as well as putting us in contact with significant aspects of the philanthropic community.
     Larissa, Jamil and myself returned to Edendale to continue our observation and enhance our understanding of the healthcare system and the culture of both the patients and the doctors.  I have noted that there is much more presence of fathers bringing children to the doctor than was present 4 years ago.  This is encouraging.  Jamil and I also were part of a case of a 3 year old hemophiliac whose twin has already died of the disease.  The cost of his care is almost $1000 per week in a system where that sum is enormous.
     I have noted a different attitude to patient death here that is probably a defense mechanism on the part of the physicians.  At night, the emergency care of outpatient children is in the hands of a single first year resident with very little backup.  This is superimposed on treating some of the sickest children anywhere.  In questioning the young woman on call, she speaks of knowing that she is doing her best in an impossible situation and can deal with subsequent outcomes.
     Friday night began the weekend well for Larissa and me.  Larissa's host had to leave town and she is being hosted by an incredibly gracious nursing teacher, Kathy, who invited Larissa,  Hennie, Beth and myself to the prenuptial ceremony of her niece.  The purpose of the ceremony is for the women to bless the bride and to apply sandalwood paste to her face as part of the blessing.  The room was decorated beautifully, and the women were dressed exquisitively.  We were welcomed as if we were part of the family, and Beth and Larissa even took part in the ceremony.  The food was very good.  Saturday, Larissa will be going to the actual wedding.  How is that for hospitality.
     Daksha continues to improve slowly and our thoughts are always with her.
     That is all for this week, hope you are all well.
Marty