Did you get your wisdom teeth removed?

The HIV/AIDS mural and training went better than I could have ever expected. Five other volunteers, including my postmate came to help with the mural and organize the training. There were over 200 people 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 in 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!