Diary - June 29, 2003
Jambo from Yvonne
 Last
week marked the end of Shawna's time here in Jambiani. Her genuine
altruistic nature was reflected in her intense and caring work
in the clinic , and her sunny, thoughtful disposition was a gift
to us all. I am grateful to have spent the beginning of this adventure
with such a warm, friendly, and fun individual. I know this shared
experience in Jambiani will be the basis for a longterm friendship.
We are all sad to see her go. Miss 'ya already, sistah Shawana!
This week is very busy for me as I "take up the slack"
from the flow of patients seeking chiropractic care. My first
three students of relaxation massage are doing some shifts with
me at the clinic in order to observe and do some supervised practical
work. The next three students had their first class today, and
all went very well. Their enthusiasm continues to inspire me.
This week I'd like to profile one of the local Jambiani workers
who serves as an interpreter at the clinic. His name is Pandu,
he's 37, married, has two families and six children. He is a devout
Muslim, and in my estimation a shining example of a good-living,
generous, and giving person. I have enjoyed learning about his
faith and customs. Every day around 1:00 p.m. he takes a short
break to go to the nearby mosque and pray as one of his five daily
prayer times. He is extremely respectful and courteous to men
and women alike, and has taken on a somewhat protective nature
over the women here associated with the Jambiani Wellness Center.
He's also got a very light-hearted sense of humour which makes
him a joy to work with. He's incredibly keen on learning about
various pathologies, and a natural "physician" ...always
displaying compassion and patience with the clients when translating
time after time the same home care advice regarding diet, exercise,
etc. I requested that Kristi bring over a basic anatomy text for
him to study and perouse. I know he will be thrilled, and excited
to increase his knowledge. The experience he has gained at the
clinic has inspired him to consider further training in the health
field. Education is free for locals, however the obstacle, of
course, is money to keep his family going while he studies. It
is hard to imagine the clinic running so smoothly without his
reliable and capable presence. My heartfelt thanks goes out to
him, and Alistair and Pat for finding him!
Yours in health, Yvonne
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