In the last 24 hours, I’ve dealt with vomiting, diarrhea,
second-degree burns, vermin, and public embarrassment. I figure, if I can
survive that, I just might be strong enough to survive the next two years.
That isn’t to say that I’ve dealt with everything alone. My
host family has been absolutely wonderful, giving me advice on what foods to
avoid and making special trips to the store for me. Junior, the second youngest,
went to buy me cell phone credit when I was crying and retching and just wanted
to talk to my mommy. Isabelle, my host mom, took me to the bakery yesterday
morning to make sure I had enough bland, safe things to eat. (Yogurt. Lots of
it.) a few family members have even taken to calling me “daughter” and “little
sister.”
And I must say, the Peace Corps staff here in Cameroon has
exceeded my expectations. Nurse Glory came to the house last night to make sure
I was all right. When I thanked her for coming so late in the evening, she
replied, “It’s nothing. I’m helping you so that you can help my country.” I
still felt terrible physically, but it was reassuring emotionally. I’m proud to
say that during the last 24 hours, I only considered going home for about 10
minutes before I remembered all of the hurdles I had to jump to get here, and
how proud everyone is of me back home. Finding a mouse in my bedroom, burning
myself on a motorcycle exhaust pipe, or falling on my ass in a puddle of mud in
front of my host family can’t change that.
I love Glory's statement. It sums it up doesn't it? Stay well.
ReplyDeleteLove you. Dad
"I think if I can survive that, I just might be strong enough to survive the next two years"
ReplyDeleteI think, indeed, that if you keep this kind of thought, you can face everything.
I'm confident, you can do it, and carry out your mission 'til the end.
Moreover with those people circle around you: "it's nothing, I'm helping you so that you can help my country".
Courage. I wish you'll soon get better.
You're still awesome! Even with occasional diarrhea… Hang in there - Rob
ReplyDeleteIt's good to know that your host family is taking such good care of you. We're all very proud of you. Love you very much, Mom
ReplyDelete