Friday, June 27, 2008

First day on the job

We made it back to Belize city and my mom left yesterday afternoon (did you make it safely home, mom?) Today is my first day w/ the Red Cross. It's been interesting - sat through a first aid presentation this morning to employees at the central bank in Belize. Of course, the instructor kept saying "we have nurses in house so if you have any health questions, ask now". Just because I'm a nurse doesn't mean I know everything! However, I was able to answer some questions about diabetes and epilepsy. We learned all about poisonous snake bite treatment as well as other very practical information. I was very glad to have sat in on it. They pretty much switch constantly between english and creole so I don't always catch everything...

This afternoon we are going to be going to the auditions they are holding for a radio campaign for HIV AIDS that they have received funding for.

Sounds like we may eventually be "instructor trainers" for the peer education program called "together we can" which focuses on HIV/AIDS. So, we'll be going to rural areas (accomodations and everything arranged through red cross) - probably each of us with a local belizian instructor - to go do these trainings.

And of course, if there is flooding or tropical storms, we will be a part of the response for these events as well.

I'll keep you all posted! My host family is great. She is a wonderful cook. No A/C in the house (but their car has A/C). Nice part of town. We were planning to travel down to Tobacco caye this weekend however there are more "tropical waves" set to roll through and so the weather and flooding will create challenges. I think we'll stick around and maybe visit the Belize zoo. I'll really try and post some pictures soon. My memory card is getting full anyways, so I won't have much of a choice~

7 comments:

The Harshes said...

Hi Shavonne,
Sounds like the Red Cross will be changing it up a bit for you all, which will be nice. It's been fun to read about your adventures with your mom; I'm so glad you took some time at the beginning to explore more of the country with her. I was very impressed with all the new things you tried! Don't doubt all the knowledge you have gained over these last few years, I know the people you will be working with will be blessed to have you as a resource. When you have a moment check out our blog for photos of our recent adventures. Love and miss you LOTS!

ozrod said...

Hi Shavonne!
It's mom, and yes, I'm home safe and sound! Delayed flights due to weather in the US too. I'm feeling very blessed to have shared our adventure in Belize! Great time! And now you begin your Work time there... Ditto what Whit said! You've studied long and hard, now it's time to put it to use, and I'm confident you will, and do it well. Enjoy this time too, and continue to keep us posted. I'll try to upload the pics from my camera somewhere soon! Love and miss you!

Trisha said...

Bonji!!! I have so enjoyed reading about all your experiences! You have definitely been in my thoughts and prayers during your time out there. I hope you are doing well & I can't wait to hear how the rest of your trip goes! Love you girl...

(Ali, Liz, & I were just talking about how proud of you we are!)

Marcie said...

I have surely enjoyed your blog!! Keep it up!! Saw Dave and Carol Kok and Tammy, Carrie & Kim on Sat for D & C's 40th Anniv. They asked about you and told me to say hi. I leave Fri for Westport. I miss Shannon. I know you'll put your education to good use in Belize!! Enjoy the challenge!!
Hugs!!

Anonymous said...

Good job sis.. Your skills, knowledge and love of people will definitly make a difference to many that you touch in the next weeks. Thanks for being so detailed in your writing. It makes it feel like you are still around!! Kenz and I miss you tons.. She is loving using your birthday gift! Its a hit!

Jess said...

Shavonne your blog is great! Thanks so much for writing in so much detail, I've always wanted to visit Belize! You are going to help so many people -- what a great experience. Be safe.
Jess

Alyssa said...

Hi Homie! Everything is fine here at the condo. I can't believe what an amazing experience you are having! Have confidence in yourself! You have worked so hard and it shows! I hope you have an opportunity to do some fun things in Belize - the zoo sounds great! Take care of yourself, love you and miss you TONS!!!