from Susanita Richman, translator

I'm an ESL teaching from New Jersey who volunteered as a translator this July in Ayacucho.  I am a "civilian"- that is, not of the medical world at all.  For me, it was a great honor to be asked to volunteer and to be  part of your world for two weeks.  Not that I want to part of the medical  world- can't even look at blood or needles! I  was very impressed with the team leadership and the organization of such a large group!  I  thoroughly enjoyed serving with different doctors as they were wonderful teachers too, explaining each case to the medical students and me.  What a magnificent learning experience it was.  At times, I had to ask the doctors to put some of the medical terms into plain English.  One doctor said that the patient has a "blah, blah" to which I replied "...and that would be?" "a swelling", "oh!,  that word I know!" 

At times, dealing with medical language felt like a third language!  When I worked in the pharmacy, as a civilian, I had to ask the pharmacist (at least 40 times!) "with or without food".  She was extremely patient with me, but I was mortified that I couldn't remember!!  Next year, I'll make myself a cheat sheet so everyone will think that I finally got it!  I never cease to be amazed at the magnificent work of the medical teams.  The hours are long, but that's why we came!  The patients are so grateful!  

What's important in life is "not what you have, but what you give".  Ayacucho mission gave me the opportunity to "give" and I am truly grateful!