My assignment is over.
I never thought my nine months in Haiti could pass by so quickly - but alas, now it is time for me to leave and hand over to the next batch of medical staff.
I’ve learnt more than I could ever have asked for, met amazing people from all over the world and I have been fortunate enough to be involved in some really interesting projects at the hospital.
During my time here, one of the main goals has been to improve local hygiene standards. From that we have seen, child mortality has decreased - amazing proof that the work we've done has made an impact.
Anna at a surprise leaving party arranged by her colleagues. Photo: Anna Blideman / MSF
One of the biggest challenges for me in the beginning was to speak French 24/7 - I was expected to, and indeed did, work in French!
In my terrible French, I once emailed everyone at the hospital with a recommendation that we should 'butcher' the patients instead of moving them. Luckily I had understanding colleagues.
I am now going to spend some time back home in Sweden, before thinking about the next mission.
It will probably be another French speaking country - and for that, I will at least know the difference between “bouger” and "boucher”!
À là prochaine!
