Today was the last full day of work and most of us are exhausted. Some of us will work in the AM tomorrow, then spend the rest of the day sightseeing, shopping, etc. Some will go to Cu Chi in the AM. We leave for the airport at 9PM for a midnight flight home.
The ear course ended today with a gala closing ceremony. The participants were so phenomenally happy with their new skills and knowledge. They all received certificates, which is a very big deal here. The ear team was thrilled with the entire two weeks.
Rod and Connie Lusk had a really good week at the Peds Hospital #1. Rod was able to arrange live teleconferences with the ENT Hospital and Peds #1 from Boystown so internet live grand rounds from the USA are just around the corner.
Ric Leinbach was with me today and we taught the end of the sinus course for the doctors at Gia Dinh and outlying hospitals. Of course, the signed graduation certificates were part of this as well! I met with the Director of the hospital at the beginning and end of the course. This is a very big deal that REI has made such a huge commitment to this hospital. I love it! We did two surgeries and the Vietnamese doctors did a lot of the surgery. They were thrilled to get to use power for the first time in the nose. Again, this was a teacher’s heaven! Bottom line… it couldn’t be any better!!!!
Brian Nicholas has been hanging out with the residents and, both he and Ric have really bonded with them. Brian met all day with them and they exchanged lectures, books, etc., in a way that has not been done before. Brian has really been very special to this team in a new way!
Still no word from the Hue team but we will meet early Sat AM in Korea.
Tonight, I am taking the entire Gia Dinh staff out for dinner. It should be a fun evening.
Next year’s schedule is taking shape. I haven’t discussed this with Begee so changes could still be made but this is what we are thinking:
Craig, Rebecca, Begee and I might be coming for 3 weeks (see… I have to clear this with the boss!)
Leave the USA on Friday 4 Sep 09 or Sat 5 Sep and head to Hanoi for one week.
This date is also attractive to our Jewish colleagues because you can stay almost two weeks and still be home for the High Holy Days.
Sunday, 13 Sep 09, arrive in Hue for one week. Craig and I plan to work 2 hosp there.
Sunday, 20 Sep 09, arrive in Hochiminh City for one week returning home on 26 Sep. That gives those wanting to go to the AAO one week to get over their jet lag before heading to San Diego.
We fixed the HCMC dates but the others are still negotiable based on responses of those wanting to go. Anyone can come one, two or three weeks! Just let me know.
Thank you for your prayers. This has been a trip that will never be forgotten by so many. Hearts were touched in deep and meaningful ways. We were greatly encouraged that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing. We have a great peace. Good night! David
