Malaria

 As you know A was very poorly, so my weekend was that of mum/nurse mode. She's been a good patient. It meant I missed a couple of things but nothing too big. One I wasn't even too fussed about going to in the first place. On Monday it was apparent that she wouldn't be up to sitting her exam, although she did seem to be getting better. We set off for the local hospital to get confirmation and have the necessary evidence for the exam board. As you know that led to her being admitted. She isn't good with needles and they had to try 3 times to get the cannula in. Once that was done we were moved to a ward. Basic but clean. 


The similarities of all my UK experiences were contrasted by the Malawi context. The first vitals taken, written on a bit of paper and no arm band to check the patient ID. I was allowed to stay as the patient's guardian which seems to mean I'm the emergency button and checker of times etc. I slept most of the night on the floor by her bed. Happily BigA had brought me in a blanket and pillow - the lights stayed on throughout the night although thankfully the lady who sounded quite a bit like a sheep on acid did stop for the early hours. Needless to say we didn't get much sleep. The morning routines began at 5 am - both of us were tired and a bit grumpy. And then we just had to wait. A had seemed to genuinely sadden the staff member who brought her food, by being vegetarian. I have never seen anyone look and sound so disappointed. She cheered him the next day by asking for Malawi beans and rice. this he clearly then approved of. BigA bought in supplies for me and a much needed cup of tea in the morning. This went along with the hospital chaplain doing a quick prayer over us. We read and listened to podcasts, chatted a bit and I even had a short nap. Once I had chased her afternoon meds I expressed my feelings that staying another night now she had finished the IV was not necessary, they wanted us to stay but I was insistent and there was genuine joy when we got the bill and I paid so we could leave. We gave a big bar of chocolate to the team on the ward which went down well and out we went. Once showered A was craving a curry - off we went to our favourite Bombay palace, served quickly and we had our fill. once home I just had to get to bed. And was fast asleep in no time. 
She was definitely on the mend but as school is all about the plans for the the next academic year I was happy enough for her to stay home for most of the week, she managed a little bit of sports day. But she got her nails done on Thursday and that evening we dyed her hair pink ready for her prom. 

The school week has been different to the normal routine. Not least because I wasn't there Monday and Tuesday, I was supposed to do a life skills day but happily I didn't miss sports day. My job - keep the children where they should be and keep the adults -parents and guests in their bit. I also helped with the selling of food, once again showing off my skills and impressed myself by quite quick maths. It was very hot - the winter seems to have been just a week and now we are having 26 degrees most days. That afternoon I applied for a job. The JD is a dream job and I would be thrilled to get it. And then the rest of the week was a bit of teaching and just making sure I have everything ready for when I leave. Strange and I felt a bit low yesterday. 

A's prom was nice, she looked extremely tall because of her silly (my mum opinion) as they were so big. Her hair was great and she seemed to have fun. 

We also had a khonde sale yesterday and it was more successful at getting rid of stuff, well BigA was selling everything off super cheap. Most of the grounds staff, cleaners and guards came. It was intense! 

Not long left now
Have a great week

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