An Imminent Return

Preparing to Return

I am busy sorting myself out for the next trip to Monze. I managed to get COVID and Flu boosters today, I have had a Typhoid booster which brings all my jabs up to date – though I wasn't pleased that I was told by my surgery that I had to go private for this jab, despite being within the prescribed time frame. I managed to squeeze in another blood donation – I might still get to 100!!

I keep remembering bits and pieces I need to find or buy. I have a “new” laptop which I need to set up for my use in Zambia. There is no chance however that it will make the return journey. I am receiving lists from my friends – many requests will not be met!! My mosquito net received a wash today – it should be retreated tomorrow.

I have some solar lights to take out – though somehow I have mislaid a couple! Some years back I visited a rural health centre. I remember seeing a patient leaving in an ox-cart – ambulances are still very much a luxury in Zambia. The midwives were complaining that women would come to the clinic during the night, about to give birth, and they would forget to bring with them a candle! The thought of delivering by the light of a candle is not something to contemplate – let alone delivering without one!! I decided that there must be a way of improving the situation. So next year I brought a solar security light with me which could be switched to stay on constantly. I wasn't sure how effective it would be, but I thought it was worth a go! After some months, I asked my friend Jennipher whether it was OK and how long it would stay lit. She told me it lit the room all night. Apparently a women was so pleased she decided to name a child after me. So some poor Zambian child now bears the name Barrell!!

I have been glancing at the weather in Zambia and for some weeks - it appears to be sunny and upper 20s or low 30s. I can remember not seeing any cloud for 4 weeks or so on past visits! After such a period, even a small cloud is a delight!

As usual I approach the trip with joy, but also some trepidation. I know that I will find that some friends are no longer around and that I will experience some harrowing scenes. Many of my friends face great challenges – some health related, but most have economic problems. Many find it increasingly difficult to support their families. Providing education is a huge challenge and, although in theory a lot is free, I know from my friends that without external support the children would not be educated.

Many of my friends have tried to develop businesses, but for various reasons these often struggle and some fail. I will be faced with many challenges – particularly on this visit. There is a lot to catch up on since my last visit in 2019.

I will keep you up to date with my adventures.

Take care,

Chris