Peru Update Part 3

 It has been a couple of very busy days for the dental team but all of us are happy to work until the last patient is seen. The team benefited from a well deserved day off this past Sunday and most of the group went to visit the famous Lake Titikaka. Of the many wonders seen there the group favorite was the floating village. It is literally a small community of villages built on lake reeds and straw. I stayed behind to explore more of Arequipa. The environment in this area of Peru is dry, dusty, oh and did I mention dry and dusty. The past two days have been filled with lots of emotions. On Monday we visited the Elojin School high up on the outskirts of the city. The children from this school were the first to visit the clinic and we recognized many of the children's faces as we toured the school.

These children are poor and many have been kicked out of their regular government sponsored schools due to behavior and emotional issues resulting from their home life. Many of their parents are un-employed, illiterate and suffering from alcoalcoholism. Many a tear was shed as we heard the founder, Seniora Rosa tell the plight of her students and the story of how her school was founded. I will share more details on this when I give my presentation to the club.

We also managed to conduct some official Rotary business this week and most of the Dental team made up by attended the Rotary  Club of Arequipa meeting. I sat at the head table and was presented with a very nice commemorative silver plate to bring home to Lou. The club members were gracious and we ended the evening with some Tapas, and of course some vino (wine).

Today we treated over 50 patients and the pace of our work is taking its toll on the team. One more day to go and we are homeward bound. It has been a great ride.