An update from Alastair – June 2014

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Well as they say, time flies when you’re having fun, and looking at the time that has transpired since our last update we must be having more fun than we deserve
The Jambiani Wellness Center continues to power along and with such a great team of recent volunteers and more scheduled to arrive, we really can’t miss nor can the patients who come for care. When I think about our humble beginnings way back there in 1999 I am truly amazed at just how far we have come. Of course the success of HABS is due in part to the involvement of hundreds of individuals at this point and the fact that we have been supported by organizations who have seen that we are committed to our mandate and that our dedication to contribute to our community has not waned over the past decade plus. Without this help, I’m not sure that we would still be viable as an NGO today. If you are contemplating joining us to offer your expertise to the people of Zanzibar then you might enjoy reading these comments posted by some of our most recent practitioners..

Dr Emma Lockwood
After 5 months I am just starting to realize the enormous impact that Hands Across Borders Society and the wellness clinic of Jambiani really had on me. The explicit trust that Alastair had for me with his patients, is humbling and the passion that Pat has for her students is sweet and inspiring. Read more ….

Madison
Jambo!
Tomorrow is my last day at the Jambiani Wellness Center as a volunteer chiropractor; I can’t believe how quickly these past six weeks have gone! What a remarkable experience for this small town American gal! It is difficult to put into words how much my time here has meant to me. Read more …

Erinn Christie
During the three weeks I spent offering Massage Therapy alongside Alastair in the wellness clinic I was immersed in communication with the local people in Jambiani and people from all around the island. I learned alot about the people, their culture, and their physical ailments. Read more…

Thank you so much for all that positive input folks. I think the picture of Madison adjusting that very trusting young child says it all. This is what we are about. Creating opportunities for individuals to have options as far as their health care choices are concerned from people who really care and want to contribute in whatever way they can.
While on the topic of people who care, we were so fortunate to have Drs Adam and Jacqui with us all the way from Melbourne Australia along with Jacquie’s brother Tom. Adam and Jacqui worked with us a bit over two years ago and returned once again, this time up until the middle of June and Tom who is an all rounder managed to repaint our volunteers bungalow and some of our window grills. What a great help that was. Tom is also a musician so we managed to fit in a few jam sessions so that was an extra treat.

So on that “note” I think it’s time to sign out for now. As always, for those of you who take the time to read these updates, we really appreciate your interest in and support for HABS and the projects here on Zanzibar. Hope you’re having a great day. 🙂
All good,
HABS Team Jambiani