In my 3rd year as a midwifery student we are amazingly given the opportunity to spend a month of our time in any area of midwifery across world. For the month of March 2017 I have chosen to visit Ghana in Africa alongside three of my classmates/good friends through the company Global Medical Projects who link students with both hospitals and the local communities.
Before beginning this course I had hoped to volunteer in an underdeveloped country and this opportunity allows me to achieve this whilst doing something that I love. I plan to make the most of it.
Whilst maternal outcomes in Ghana have improved in the past 20 years, healthcare in most areas of Africa remains less advanced than our own NHS in the U.K, with their lack of funding and resources making healthcare less accessible and the childbirth experience more difficult. I hope to use my knowledge and experience gained in the Scottish educational system and NHS to contribute in any way that I can and continue the progress made.
I plan to make the most of any free time I have to visit orphanages and donate a selection of clothes, toys and educational pieces, of which donations of such would be greatly appreciated. My hope is to fill one additional suitcase of aid and physical donations to take.
Any money received will go solely towards aid and benefiting those in need and will NOT be of any personal financial benefit to myself or my living expenses whilst there. I would like to reassure you that any donation big or small will be put to the best use and suggestions of where you wish your money to go to will be taken onboard.
I intend to arrange some fundraising events along the way that I can squeeze into the few months before this amazing experience so participation via these is also an option!
I still can't quite get over the fact that this is happening and I know it will be an invaluable experience and will allow me to gain a deeper insight into a new side of health and maternity care.