I’ve made it in one piece! When I first arrived, I hit the ground running. The first few weeks in Myanmar were packed full of language, culture and security lessons.
The pineapple sunglasses in the photo beside may still come in useful…
Originally I was told my placement would be in a very remote area of northern Myanmar near the Indian border, where I would need to use a motorbike to get around. This has just been changed to Yangon, one of the biggest cities here where the majority of people live in extreme poverty.
I may have dragged my motorbike helmet, jacket, boots and jumpers half way around the world to now not need them, but I’m actually really pleased with the change.
It will be the first time I’ve volunteered in an urban area, so I’m curious to see the differences. Yangon has malls and luxury hotels, yet in stark contrast there are open drains full of rubbish and rats, a lack of clean drinking water and unreliable electricity.
My new home
This photo shows my new home in Yangon. It’s on a really bustling street, full of life from the noise of bartering in nearby shops, the frying of delicious food from the street stalls and the near-continuous barking from street dogs.
My apartment is up on the sixth floor, which I chose to get away from the rats! Sadly I don’t have the luxury of air con or a fan, but I do have a tiny balcony where I can sit and watch life in Yangon, with some great views over the city.
Meeting my colleagues
I had my first day at work yesterday, which is based in Yangon’s College of Midwifery. I was really chuffed to be warmly welcomed – I think I’m going to really like it here. Although my work hasn’t really started yet, there was one clear issue I spotted within minutes as I got my tour of the college; no running water.
We take running water for granted back home, so I know I’m going to have my work cut out in working in a health service without this basic facility.
Knowing you are beside me has been a great source of comfort as I settle into my new life, leaving my husband, house and cats behind – so thank you. I can’t wait to get stuck in at the College of Midwifery and to let you know how it’s going next time.
Speak soon,
Carol
