18 - 19 December

18th Dec
This morning Sian and I interviewed the two Doctors who manage most of the burns patients. We were struck by the large volume of paediatric admissions, and informed that the majority of cases do not even come to hospital. Dr Norma took us on a paediatric ward round where we were able to examine a patient prior to surgery and speak with several parents and children about their problems. We also met a British Paediatrician working for VSO and were shown around the neonatal unit. One particularly poorly baby was quite distressed and showing some very worrying signs, indicating it was unlikely to fare well. When we returned today (19th) to get an update it was really pleasing to see the baby was still fighting and had made a marked improvement.
In the afternoon Domingo arranged a meeting with the Chief Medical Director. It went very well and we have now been given permission to photograph and film in the hospital. This is a huge benefit and will let us tell a more complete story on our return.
Night time activity included Sian and Ellie's Xmas hats, the Santa conger and the Julbrew hat-master challenge. Say no more!

19 Dec
So.... today was the last day of hospital; it has come around so quickly. I have tried to juggle things this morning to maximise the film and photo opportunities. First stop was with Mike in paediatric surgery. Second stop to catch up with the rest of the gang in Neurology Outpatient Clinic. Then on to Neonatal Unit, Obs & Gynae theatre and finally A & E.
This afternoon the second Swansea presentation was given, on Hepatoma. The guys gave a really good talk, which went down a storm. They were supplemented by a Cuban physician adding information directly relevant to the Gambia afterwards.
Tonight we are going to a party organised by Chiquita and the rest of the recent elective students.