The beginning…

I am greeted by the hot and humid air as I disembark my flight into Manila. This is my first time in the Philippines, first time with the Open Heart International (OHI) “Gift of Sight” ophthalmology team. This is the 7^thvisit the team has come to work alongside the Adventist Hospital, Santiago City.

After a night in Manila, the team set off early to catch our flight that would bring us to Cagayan Valley where the hospital is situated. I am told since it’s a valley district the heat from the sun and humidity makes it one of the hottest part of the country. I am certainly feeling it!

We are warmly welcomed by the hospital team and served a feast for lunch. Formal speeches are said, handshakes are exchanged and we are ready to commence our project work. The first thing is set up which the OHI team get stuck into straight away. I am always impressed by the diligence, care and methodical way the team prepare for their work. Our Filipino colleagues are so helpful and accommodating during the set up and provide us with the space and necessary equipment required. Dom is a Registrar on the team and he begins the process of review the patients and screening their eye condition in preparation for surgery which begins tomorrow.