A day in Mbale

We went to the hospital in Mbale today. I must say, it was not a wonderful experience. But I also have to add that it is the best hospital within 200 kilometers and we have had great results from the doctors there.

Here are my observations:

We arrive at the gate, there is  a line of people waiting to be allowed in. They simply open the gate for our van to drive through. I wonder if it is because we are in a vehicle or because we are white.  Either could be the reason. 

We park and walk down a long, covered walkway past many wings.

There are blankets spread on the grass drying in the sun.

People line the walkways, sitting, talking, eating and waiting for their loved ones to get better.

The sound of sawing is heard. 

Men carry construction equipment alongside women in wheelchairs. Hammers echo off the walls, disturbing the patients as they try to rest. 

We enter a ward, looking for our patients. People stare. They are sitting on bare mattresses, tied up mosquito nets hanging over some of the more fortunate people's beds. 

Paintings on the walls attempt to cheer the patients. 

Women lay half dressed, nursing their child, a basin of dirty liquid under the bed. Skeletons of men sit and sip a cloudy liquid as their son or daughter stands over them. 

Bandages, red and crusty with blood are wrapped tightly around freshly cleaned wounds. 

Nurses walk around in starched white or mint green uniforms, the 50's style nurse's hat perched precariously on their head.

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I know this seems bleak, but it is a reality and for many, the best care available to them.  We mentioned many times during the day how great it will be when our clinic is up and running!   We can avoid the 1 1/2 hour drive, the long lines, etc. 

Also, many of the patients we send to this hospital now would NEVER be able to go without help from Helping Hands- it is just not even an option for them. But, our clinic will be a very real option! It is coming!

(Looking out a window of the future clinic)