Almost there...

Hello one and all! I officially take off for Uganda a week from today. I am so excited to go, getting a little nervous though. I have all my immunizations and my bags half packed, ready to head out! I have been doing a ton of shopping, and for the first time in my life I have to admit that I am kinda sick of it ! :) My mom did the math and my flight is 18 hours (not including layovers)--sure am looking towards it...haha.

For those of you who don't know what I will be doing for the next 4 months, this is for you, I will be working directly on public health projects in the community. Eye screenings in rural villages will be a major project this year. Those who are screened need to be logistically organized for eye surgeries in the capital city, Kampala. Also, I will be building hand washing stations throughout remote parts of Uganda and I will be teaching people in carefully designed course modules about the importance of sanitation. I will be working in a variety of areas improving sanitation facilities and working to replace hazardous sanitation systems in smaller villages with safer systems. AIDS awareness campaigns will be a project where some of my time will also be devoted towards. In my spare time I will be getting involved with the local people. I will be participating in local traditions and celebrations, such as leaning how to cook the local foods. I will also have time for reading, traveling, and hanging out with other participants.