Tonight is our final night in good old Liberia. There was a little reception today for us at the hospital where the staff said goodbye, and thanked us for our services at JFK. We are going to miss all of the friends we have made in the NICU and Pediatric Ward. We presented the department with a high tech resuscitation mannikin that was graciously donated by our neighbors Paul and Lita.
At the reception for us given by the Pediatric Department - Drs Okoh, Oguni, Nuta, Andrews, and Camanor as well as the PAs and nurses throughout the Dept., we were able to tell them how welcome we felt at all times, how much we had learned from them as we shared what we could with all of them. Dr Camanor mentioned that when Christ left his disciples, he indicated to them it was his time to leave, as it was their time to learn and grow on their own, and likened this to the departure of the Golden crew. We were humbled by the comparison and could sense their excitement to continue improving the care in the NICU at JFK. We took lots of photos with the staff, they had some tasty snacks and drinks to share with us, and Dad scored a cool Liberian traditional country shirt. All farewells have been emotional, because the Liberian people are warm and friendly, and we have become Liberian ourselves!
Despite the many frustrations we have experienced, we have grown fond of the people, customs and culture. Instead of saying Good-bye, we are saying, "See you Later".
Love the Goldens.
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