helen weld public health

DEPARTING BO. . .

There are packs of dogs howling outside in the predawn as I write. Combined with the early calls to prayer, it is quite dramatic.

Bags are packed and the lists are all crossed off. Selena, Jenny and I head off tonight for London. Julia will accompany us to Freetown and we will bid her adieu there (it's nice for me to know that I'll see her in Ojai at Thacher graduation time). It will be good to have a walk on the beach and get some ocean air into our lungs before going to the airport for the long hangout time.

Yesterday was a full and productive day of tying up loose ends. Top of the list was hiring Margaret as the nursing supervisor. We are excited and confident of her abilities to help move the program forward.

Knowing that there would be a river of tears from many of us if we had the usual farewell scene at the hospital comprised of patients, staff and well wishers this morning, we did the goodbyes as we went through the day yesterday. Much better. . .

It was a cosy last evening here at the house. I made a wicked good batch of brownies and we shared photos and perspectives on the highlights of the time here; happiest, saddest, funniest, most frustrating, most bizarre, most rewarding, most challenging etc....we will all have many stories to share.

Jenebah and smilin' baby Dr. Maggi