Archive for the “From Yantalo” Category

Hola amigos.

After too many months in both the States and Lima, I’ve finally made it back to Yantaló. Back to the wonderful weather, the breathtaking landscapes and all the smiling faces that I fell in love with the first time. It is certainly nice to be here. …And this time I’m here to stay.

I made it just in time to get to work. Upon my arrival, the rainy season was drawing to a close and we were preparing for our first cement pour at the clinic site. The cistern forms had been completed and we were ready to go. The weather cooperated and, despite a couple minor malfunctions with a cement truck, we finished in one day, without much difficulty. (Not surprising, considering the incredible work ethic of the Yantalinos.)

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Dear Luis-

My apologies for the delayed note; today is my first moment to regroup after the travels and clinical call upon return.

First, my best wishes to you, Mary and your family as you face her illness together.  I know it is very difficult, but I also know that support of family and friends in these situations is important.  All of us here are friends who offer our unqualified support and our prayers.

With regard to Yantalo and Peru, let me say simply, thank you.  Though not as much as you, I have traveled and lived many places…the trip to Yantalo was unique, memorable and positive in ways that surprised me.  What you are doing rekindled some of my 1960’s idealism.  It was one of the most rewarding trips I’ve undertaken; the medical aspects, Yantalo school, our companions, the jungle, everything about it. Your kindness and hospitality were extraordinary.  I am indebted to you for all of your efforts on our behalf.

We’ll talk the week of October 12 regarding next steps.  I have given this some thought.  If we are to organize a Jan/Feb 2010 meeting related to minimally invasive surgery we will have to move quickly.  We are planning a lecture here on campus later this month to provide our colleagues some insight.  We’ll talk.

Again, gracias and best wishes.

Keith T. Oldham, MD
Professor and Chief
Division of Pediatric Surgery
Medical College of Wisconsin
Marie Z. Uihlein Chair and Surgeon-in-Chief
Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin

Hola mis amigos.

February was a very busy month here in Yantalo.  There’s been a lot of activity lately, and we’ve still got a number of projects going on at the moment.    Because this area of Peru has the highest infant mortality rate in the country, the Foundation, in conjunction with Not Another Minute, conducted an extensive interview of all the recently pregnant women here.   Thanks to a group of student nurses and caring Yantalinas, 239 women were questioned regarding their child-bearing experiences and resulting health issues.  Great job Gerly!  Thank you and your helpers for the hard work. Read the rest of this entry »