Day 8 (May 26)

Contributed by: Matt

Today was not only Memorial Day back home, but it was also African Union Holiday here in Ghana. Due to the holiday, our long day before, still adjusting to no AC at night (it's hot), and many other excuses, we took it easy today. We did some sourcing of materials in Sirigu, but with the banks closed we were too short on cash to make many purchases Pigs, goats, guinea fowl, and dogs roam the market and breakfast spot regularly. I'm not sure how the people keep track of their animals, however, it is a great social offense to steal an animal that is not yours.

After “window shopping” (there are no windows in North Eastern Ghana), we were tired and indulged in some drinks under a beautiful mango tree. The mango tree is an amazing gift to people who live in such a hot place. The canopy provides a perfect shade and the leaves seem to radiate a cool mist down on you. Leisurely, we discussed our plans for the next few days and how busy we would be for the foreseeable future.

We said goodbye to David and John Peter, who headed south to Tamle to pick up Paul Trotta (our faculty adviser), Dale Grey (our professional advisor, sponsor, and chair of Medical Hands for Healing), and Ken Bailey (a surgical technician also with Medical Hands for Healing). The volunteers ate dinner at SWOPA, where we will now be eating most of our meals. After tonight's dinner of flavored rice, goat, and guinea fowl, we are excited to have found such great place.