March camp report 2008

A rewarding month, with testimony to improved health care coming from an unexpected source. The local gravedigger in the 'children's cemetry' casually observed that over the past few months he had noticed a definite drop in his workload. Maybe a seasonal variation or other factors to be mitred in , but an encouraging sign...

Two outreach camps were undertaken at Ekogbene and Esama, and with clinic patients and home visits, 458 patients were treated during March, again the emphasis being on children and mothers.

With simple nutritional advice and close follow-up at the home and clinic these twins have visibly put on weight over the six weeks between photos. Their mother, initially discouraged has become much more confident, now at ease at seeking advice and support. Both children sleep under a mosquito net, and will be fully vaccinated.

Health Care Workers and Community Midwife visit newborn infant at home

Many times the body language says it all, this young mother presenting with an underweight, sickly infant. Difficult to engage with, and demotivated these mothers are admitted with their children, to hear the fuller picture of their situation, to assess the child and mother, identify the needs and plan follow-up at home and at Clinic. Many mothers are young teenagers and need long term input to facilitate effective mothering, and ensure the development of the child.