eople who came, many of the women from the women’s groups which was my target audience, as well as influential men in the community and some young people. I had a banner made, which was carried by co-workers around the quartiers with a small band of sorts to get people excited for testing. The training went really well, we did a condom demonstration and of course some dancing. Then the whole group marched to the health center to reveal the mural. The mural was a big hit and turned out fantastic as you can see! Then we did free HIV testing, 108 people were tested. I did pre and post test counseling in French which was then translated into local language, it was pretty stressful, but I don’t think I did too terrible. My homologue was a huge help and I think was grateful for my work. She ended up bringing food and drinks, including my personal favorite sodabe (locally made liquor). I am happy that my first big project went so well, it’s encouraging. I also turned the completion report in right on time (about 1AM…college style)!
After the weekend I went up to Parakou for training about Moringa, a nutritionally dense plant that I think I have mentioned before. It was only 2 days, but I learned a few things and ate some delicious local food. It’s mango season already up north, so that was totally worth the trip anyway! After the IST I went up to Kandi, which is where we have another workstation and sleeping space. It is much further north, another 4 hours in a taxi. I have never been in such a dry, hot place in my life. I am still recovering from the heat rash. I will never complain about the humid heat we have in the south…ever again. Obviously my body is not accustomed to that and isn’t a big fan. Then from my face flaking off and the itching I got an infection or well a few, I looked like I had gotten my wisdom teeth removed (and was asked) since my face was so swollen. There are pictures circulating for amusement. Therefore I spent the week in the medical unit taking antibiotics and soaking in the air conditioning. I am home now for a little while.
At the end of April, we have a meeting for the trainers to arrange the plans for the next group of volunteers coming i
n July. That will be followed by training on malaria in Porto Novo. There are also a couple of birthdays to celebrate. I volunteered to make mango salsa! Oh and as a group health volunteers bid (at the GAD dinner) on this bbq dinner at my APCD’s house. Her husband is an amazing cook from what I have heard. I’m not sure how I got roped in…being a vegetarian, but it should be fun. After all this running around I am making a commitment to myself to stay at home until my vacation, no ands, ifs, or buts about it.
On another note…the TARHEELS won the national CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!!! I am jealous to all those who were lucky enough to watch the game whether it be in Detroit, the Dean Dome, or at a seedy bar! I hope you all had a great time and I can’t wait to get my t-shirt and other memorabilia. Have a nice Easter weekend everyone!
