09.09.14. Just like back home - No Power!

It is funny how one gets used to the hum of the air conditioner in the background and the immediate notice of the silence that fills the void when it is not working. Apparently the entire island of Yap had a power outage (must check on that information), once around 2 AM and then again after 5. Not much different than at home - no storms to explain the loss of power. The hospital  has emergency generators and we were operational again by 8:30.

My work is progressing, more observing the PH sessions and the immunization sessions as well as working on data for them. They have an incredible amount of data on the health of the population, the advantage of a small island. There are  many disadvantages in terms of health, such as limited facilities and procedures and the need to go off island for cancer surgery, cardiac surgery, and other major medical problems. The closest major medical center is in the Philippines. Honolulu is closer to the eastern part of Micronesia - almost two thousand miles away from Yap.

Immunizations are required for all school children and the parents bring the little ones into the Public Health office for them.  Here are a couple of pictures of a couple of precious little ones. Usually smiles, then tears.

A tender moment before work and kindergarten.

This is baby Abby and her Mom in the Public Health office. Note the beautiful basket. They are hand made on the island and there are specific bags for women and men.

Isn't she adorable? She was all smiles before her shot. Just a bundle of joy. You can see how proud Mom is of her little one. She was all smiles, too!

The office staff carefully records all immunizations. Note the pink comb in the Mom's hair - also special on the island.

Here are two more little cuties, all smiles before those shots! She was very brave and did not cry.

That is my office that can be seen through the open door. I like to keep it open so I don't miss anything. And to keep and eye on the betelnut. It is starting to work. Fewer bags in the department.

Yes, the children are loved, protected and immunized, just like the sign says. She, too, was very brave. No tears.

The office staff has it down cold. Mom holds the child, a couple of staff distract the child and the nurse gives a very quick injection. Obviously they have done this many times.

Tonight I will work on data. Finished my laundry at the local laundry place. I will probably hug my washer and dryer when I get home. The things we take for granted.

And a very special Thank you to Mr. S B.  His card made it here, my very first piece of mail on Yap. The card will be hung on the wall in my office. Now, I am still patiently waiting for my supplies to arrive - mailed one month ago.