Week 5 - I'm so amazed!!

Location: Rakai/Kasensero, Uganda
This week we spent a few days in Rakai where we attended lectures and had site visits. I didn't really know what to expect going into this trip. Before we left, we had a lecture with Dr. Serwadda who was absolutely amazing and one of the first journal authors and descriptor of HIV in Uganda and specifically in the Rakai region. After his lecture I was really inspired to learn more and to find out what is going on in the community now. Everything about the trip was absolutely perfect. Our accommodations were not only beautiful but very close to the center where we would have our lectures. Once we arrived, I was so excited because so many great things started there. It was also a huge asset having Professor Stewart with us to help ask questions and really get a feel for the work they are doing. On our first day of lectures, we attended a drama and had a tour of their facilities. Both were top notch!! Of course not all of the buildings and offices were spacious and organized but it didn't really matter because the work could speak for itself. The program is in charge of about 48 villages and each year they make their rounds to make sure that everyone is being taken care of and peoples needs are met, regardless of HIV status. We learned that RHSP pioneered self administered vaginal swabs as well as the use of photos with patients charts and identification numbers. Funding is still an issue but they have done such a wonderful job sensitizing, educating, and treating their communities. They have also done a wonderful job with community involvement which is essential to changing behaviors.
The second day of lectures included a visit to Kasensero. Kasensero is significant because the emergence of HIV in Uganda began in this area. Once again, I didn't know what to expect and I don't think anything could have prepared me for it. The village was very dirty and clustered. Unfortunately, it was raining that day but most of us decided we wanted to take a tour anyway. As we walked around the village I saw animals everywhere and children peeing in the grass. I don't recall seeing any pit latrines there which was really sad because after 25 years, this community is still not receiving the help they need. The children were jumping around in puddles with no shoes completely unaware that their behavior could affect their health. After 20 or so minutes of walking we finally reached the Clinic! It is not up and running yet but I was glad to see that help was on the way. For many people, getting to a clinic is very difficult because they are so removed. RHSP services do not reach Kasensero so having a clinic there is essential. This trip was definitely an eye opening experience for me and I can't wait to learn more.