My twelve months in Ethiopia will be filled with many amazing experiences and challenges. I’m hoping that by sharing what I’ve learnt as an obstetrician I can put your donations into action and make a real difference. Thank you so much for choosing to be a Volunteer Linker, supporting VSO and for following my volunteer journey.
For many years, I have dreamt of working overseas in a developing country. So I’ll be in Ethiopia for twelve months to do the job I love somewhere I hope I can really make a difference. I’m filled with a mix of emotions- excitement, fear, pride. I have always wanted to work abroad and have chosen a profession which I can use across the world. I love to travel and explore. I started medical school because I wanted to help people. This opportunity enables me to marry all of these together in a unique environment. I want to be a good doctor and believe that this experience can only enrich me.
A normal working day at home: In the morning I usually go around and see all the patients who are not under midwifery led, low risk care. We’re a busy unit with over 5000 deliveries, so it is not unusual for the ward round to take until lunchtime, with various people disappearing off to review new patients/disappear to theatre. At lunchtime it’s rare that I get to sit and eat as no-one covers for me, so I generally grab something on the run. As long as I have caffeine, I can soldier on! In the afternoon I usually complete jobs from the morning and review patients in ‘triage’- pregnant women can self refer with any pregnancy related problem, ranging from minor problems to being really unwell. It is also the first opportunity I have to go to A+E where I may have a postnatal patient waiting. From 5pm, I’m also responsible for antenatal and postnatal ward, so I’ll commonly get bleeped about patient reviews and prescriptions. I also regularly go in to theatre to deliver babies by caesarean section. I really do love my job and know I’m in such a privileged position to help bring new life into the world. I love hearing the newest person in the world cry and watching the parents’ expressions as reality hits!
