Working at Pequeños Pasitos

Sept 16

Hey guys, hope you're all in good health. Just a quick entry, for those who are interested in reading. This past Tuesday (yesterday) I went to the community where we're having our Medical Community class. Well this week was very interesting. I got to go out into the community and talk to them about Dengue and take blood pressures with my Professor! How awesome does that sound! Me, actually helping out a community that needs help. Its surreal at times. I'm absolutely ecstatic about doing it, but at times I still can't believe it. Anyway, I also started my independent study. For those of you who don't know, I am writing a 30 page case study of a health issue down here in the Dominican Republic. I've decided to write on the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice of Preventive Medicine/Primary Care specifically focusing on Dengue. I started by asking the people of the community what they knew about Dengue, such as their knowledge of symptoms, how its transmitted, and how they can prevent it. I was surprised to find a lot of people knew how to avoid Dengue. I was really happy about that, to know little kids weren't dying because people are taking care of their water supply. But another pleasant surprise. Anyways, so while we were in the community, whenever the people would address us individually they called us "Doctor". She actually is a doctor, but they called me doctor as well. HOLY CRAP! I can't even begin to tell you how odd that was to hear. People called me Doctor...Doctor. Man, just cause I know how to take blood pressures doesn't make me a doctor. I'm telling you that was an experience I'll never forget and actually next week I get to do the same, expect go with a community consultant through the community and discuss Dengue I'm assuming. (This time of year here in DR, is high season for Dengue). But that should be really exciting. Actually this weekend I will be incomunicado till Sunday from Friday. Friday were are leaving to the Southwest of DR, to really see the impoverished region of the country. For those of you don't know, the poorest regions of DR are in the South, so seeing that will probably be very eye opening. I will blog about that experience afterwords. But thats all thats been going on. Oh, I made Huevos Ranceros for my family last night and they loved it. It almost tasted like Tita's (my Grandma). Its because of her that I love Huevos Rancheros so much! Look it up and try and make is some times guys! Its really good, trust me you'll enjoy it! Anyways, I'm rambling, so I'll talk to you guys later! Have a great weekend!