badgergirl's Guestbook

Date: 22nd June 2009

Pediatrics week
Dear God, Caitlin: It amazes me the depth of experience you are having. I didn't know you would witness poverty and its consequences so closely. It's emotionally overwhelming just to read your entry. So much seems out of the control of the medical staff. It is clear that having plenty of doctors, etc. is not enough to overcome the interrelated factors of poverty. The fight/discussion over the new federal health care programs is raging here.. People, like me, are amazed that the single payer plan is not even being considered by Congress. The insurance industry is gigantic ( I don't know how it compares to the auto industry). Most members of Congress receive money from the industry. The chair of one of the committees drafting legislation receives the third highest amount of these contributions. If they don't go for single payer, I don't see how they can fund any program that significantly lowers the number of uninsured. I wonder how our system looks to you now, even though time-wise your visit has been brief. Wish all of its problems, it sounds like health care here, and accompanying social supports, works very well compared to Huancayo, etc. I am sorry for the pain and outrage you are experiencing, and also thank God for guiding you into it. You are fully sufficient to handle the turmoil and really not far from home. I feel you being changed and I honor your courage and deep commitment! Love, ADC

From Blog: My week in Pediatrics

Date: 16th June 2009

Hi:)
Hi Caitlin!!! I am so glad that you are having fun and taking everything in! Your climb sounds amazing and I am very proud of you for doing it! I cannot wait to see the pics~ It also sounds like you are learning tons! I am thinking about you and thanks for posting all of your adventures! Live it up:) Miss you tons!

From Blog: Huayta Pallana and Concert

Date: 10th June 2009

Wow
What an incredible experience. I am filled with envy practicing medicine and Spanishtoo!!!! in Peru no less!! Usted tendrá mucho tiempo practicarle español. Buena suerte. Amor, tía Natalia

From Blog: Day Two at the Hospital

Date: 9th June 2009

YAY!!!!
Sounds gorgeous kiddo! I am so incredibly excited for you (and of course proud as can be). I am sorry I didn't get to talk to you right before you left, but I know you are going to relish every moment of your journey(even the trying ones) and suck the marrow of learning from the bones of this experience...that sounded a little creepy...sorry...anyhoo, I look forward to reading all about your experiences and trials and triumphs to come. Love you tons, Your Biggie brother

From Blog: The Bus Ride to Huancayo

Date: 8th June 2009

You're there!
Glad that you are there safe and sound...you are on your bus ride, now, I would guess. I hope that your luggage has found its way to you! If not, you will look lovely in hospital scrubs and eventually you should have your goods, we hope!! Love from us both. We are thinking of you every minute.

From Blog: In Lima