A trip to the Hospital

On my first day as an SOS mother, the youngest child needed to go to the hospital. This boy  has a series of health problems that requires constant medical attention. The visit with the doctor went well it but it was a long afternoon in the heat.

The reception area at the hospital was located outside and when we arrived, there was a long line of people waiting to see the doctor. Being a mom in Namibia requires a lot of patience and that is exactly what Elizabeth, the SOS mother, has. Just the heat alone takes a lot out of you. The health care system is free in Namibia but you have to be prepared to wait under the scorching sun.

Since Elizabeth frequently takes the young boy to the medical centre, she knew how to work the system. It was unbelievable to see her maneuver her way to the front of the reception desk. We could have been there all day waiting, but she knew what to say and was very charming!

I have such an admiration for Elizabeth and the way she handles things with a sense of ease. Her ability to look after eight children and still focus on this little guy, who is always running around, is inspiring.