Preparation

Considerable time and effort has been expended to obtain orthopaedic implants and instruments, items that are useful to us in Ethiopia; however, they have been written off by the benefactor here in the states. These are charitable gifts with no resale value. I anticipate that this good start will permit us to initiate a meaningful teaching program for the residents. They are eager and anxious to learn how we do orthopaedics. We are continuing to secure materials for this purpose.
   Shipping is troublesome. Orthopaedists do things big! Orthopaedic implants and instruments usually made of stainless steel are bulky and heavy. The airlines frown on excess weight these days and charges can be costly. Fortunately we have been offered space in a container from the Greater Orlando Area bound for Addis Ababa, within several weeks. A serendipitous joy, albeit a mountain of paperwork required.
   The key to this project is the volunteers! Docs and staff that are willing to take 2 -4 weeks away from family and practice to contribute to the education of their Ethiopian peers is the cornerstone to improving the health care of their people. We are not going in and doing it for them. This is a sharing and teaching project directed to and created for their health care team. Starting in January 2010 there are volunteers taking on this challenge. I am confident that they will be rewarded greatly in personal satisfaction knowing that they have shared with those in need with what we have so generously been given.
   To those who have graciously given of time, money and support a big thank you. One day when each of the Ethiopian docs stops and reflects on how they have been impacted, how did this come about, what went into this and why, then the true goal of the project will be realized. (See slideshow in sidebar.)
-- Don