We have had technical difficulties...welcome to Africa! We are still staying at 'Josh's' place in Valley View south of Mlolongo. It feels like home now.
Don, Judy & I are the only Mzungu (whites) doing HIV testing. Josh, of course, does. But he is busy organizing. We have only been testing out in the field (in tents set up in local slums). I had my first 2 positive tests Friday. The look on their faces is terrible.
There are twelve people living in the house: Selema, the house lady, who is AMAZING!, two African teenagers who were orphans that Josh and his partner 'adopted', 8 volunteers from Winnipeg, and of course, Hank (Josh).
We get up and Selema (and Don!) make breakfast. Don & I make coffee :D. We share 2 toilets and 1 shower.
Around 8:30 or 9 we start out on the dusty, fetid road for the 3 km walk to the centre. There is some organizing, then, with the locals from the centre we carry plastic chairs, tables, tents and supplies to the matatu spot and travel to a slum. Sometimes we break for lunch. Hank takes the Mzungos to a safe restaurant, then back for the afternoon.
Don, do the breakfasts even come close to the Norvilla?
ReplyDeleteTrying to post this again with my technical inadequities!. I had to go back and look at the pictures, how incredible!! What you capured is poignant. Rob, I am sure you knew how I felt when you had your positive results. I am in awe of you. Please find time to read to the kids, it is I love to read week and always wanted you to do that in schools here. Please be careful and enjoy the rest of your journey.
ReplyDelete