St Columba's Hospice Nurses
Lorraine Wilson,Tricia McLaughlan and Sarah Renilson visited the Tuni Home in 2004 and were there to help open the St Columba's medical room located on the compound.
When we arrived at the Home in 2004 we received the most wonderful welcome, greeted with garlands, bouquets and 320 smiling faces, blasting out a good tune. And men in skirts dancing too; just like home really.
As we arrived the clinic was nearing completion - we soon understood that in India everything was always nearly finished. We adapted very quickly to this so-called Indian time. With some of the money raised we were able to shop and buy some of the essential equipment for the clinic. It was a bit of an adventure bringing it back to Tuni mainly because we had bought enough for a small hospital and we could hardly get it all in the car.
The clinic opened unexpectedly one evening with the arrival of the Doctor. We laid down our ladles and headed off. The clinic was in full swing. Suddenly the newly named St Columbas' Clinic was opened and a long orderly queue formed. As well as handing out many stickers (plasters to you and me) we did see one little girl. Neamla was diagnosed as having leprosy and was able to receive treatment. Another little boy was brought to the clinic by his Grandmother. He was taken to the hospital and diagnosed with pneumonia. It was a relief to see him tucking into milk and bread a few days later. We saw many children over the next few weeks. Iain did comment that there appeared to be an increase in the number of bumps and bruises since our arrival...The kids soon got used to the clinic and would present themselves at any time for treatment and were also brought by the teachers. It was good to see the clinic in full swing. We were also able to design medical notes for the kids, which were to be started as we were leaving. Teaching the older children first aid and proved to be great fun. Their enthusiasm and commitment was overwhelming.
Our next challenge was the "itch". Many of the children had scabies, which was making life difficult, painful and uncomfortable for them. With an army of volunteers who traded the chalk for a bar of soap and rubber gloves we were able to treat all 320 children.
It wasn't all work and we did get out from time to time. We were lucky enough to attend a couple of health camps in the local villages, life is hard for these people. We also attended a betrothal and other functions.
The 3 weeks came and went all too quickly. We had the most amazing time. The children were beautiful and full of such joy. It was humbling and at the same time uplifting. Some had such sad stories for ones so young. It was a great privilege to be involved with the children and to see how the money being raised here is changing so many young lives. There is real hope for their future.
