helen weld public health: Post Grad. . .

‘Post grad’. . .

Last November when I departed from Gardens for Health International (GHI) after my third stint, I was surprised and touched by the staff having a graduation ceremony (quasi roast) in my honor. I laughed and cried throughout the whole event. In keeping with the GHI graduation tradition, there was a skit, a graduation certificate and the gift of two chickens (which have since been enjoyed by staff for dinner).

Now I have returned for a “post grad” stint and it is heartening to witness the positive changes and progress on the farm over the past five months. Although I am just here for a few weeks this time, I look forward to collaborating with my amazing colleagues on strategic planning for the expansion to a new district with the addition of four new health centers (beginning in September); finessing training materials, and helping with a series of real GHI graduations for mothers who have completed the most recent cycle of trainings.

It’s wonderful to be ‘home’ in this part of the world. Despite jetlag I walked to the office at dawn. How I love the early light filtering through the clouds across the verdant hills, hearing a woman singing as she showers at the back of her home, sharing lunch at the farm table and watching a mini murmuration of gold finches over the gardens. Getting many ‘welcome back’ hugs from staff was especially revitalizing. As always, I am grateful and honored to be part of this special community again.

Helen