Electives and Short Term Projects
As we said in Issue 4 of Dòchas, it has been a real joy over the last few years to see the number of young people from Scotland choosing to go overseas with TLM to experience leprosy care as well as life in the developing world as part of their studies. Here 5 of them share just a little of what it was like and whether they would encourage others who get the opportunity to do the same.
More information about arranging your own elective or short term project overseas is available.
Your Guides
Donna Kelly, who is studying Medicine, visited Anandaban Hospital in Nepal
Nicole Buckingham, who is studying Occupational Therapy, visited Purulia Hospital in NE India
James Hardie, who was studying Psychology, visited Karigiri Hospital in SE India
Hannah Crosthwaite, who is studying Medicine, visited Naini Hosptal in N India
Emma Cottman, who is studying Nursing, visited Anandaban Hospital in Nepal
Donna Kelly
In the summer of 2006 I visited
During my placement I was given the opportunity to work with all of the doctors either during ward rounds, out patient clinics, leprosy clinics or in the operating theatre. Though I had only completed the prodominantly pre-clinical years it was a fantastic opportunity to pick up clinical skills and to learn to work with a language barrier. It was amazing how quickly I picked up some Nepali too and I can safely say that I have the staff's children to thank - Connor and Esther did a fantastic job of teaching me every part of the body I'd possibly need! I was also fortunate enough to be at Anandaban whilst there was a conference running to educate qualified doctors about leprosy which I was welcome to attend.
I have so many amazing memories through the medicine I saw, the people I met and the places I went. Starting with medicine I would have to say that I enjoyed being in theatre most and appreciated how involved the surgeon, Tim, made me feel and the practical experienced I gained. Living at the hospital in the guest house really made me feel like a part of the community - and I'll never forget Tulsi the cook! I cannot thank Rachel, Murdo, Tim and Julie enough for making us feel so welcome and Chaman and Bishnu for showing us the sights.
Overall I feel I gained a good insight into leprosy and TLM as a whole and cannot recommend visiting Anandaban highly enough. The most striking thing is what a happy place it is and I cannot describe to you the strong sense of community that exists. Hopefully one day in the future I will be able to visit again and be reminded just how wonderful the people and place are as well as the ongoing work.
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