Three Salzburg pediatricians. Christian Gross, Hartwig Maurer and Heinz Grienberger are currently working in the Nairobi project. The Mathare slum is one of the largest in Africa and the conditions are difficult. Six German and Austrian doctors are constantly on duty there, working with the local medical team at the Baraka Medical Center. Newcomer Austrian Doctor reports on his very first assignment:
“For years, I have listened with enthusiasm to my friend Christian Gross’ stories about his missions as an “Austrian Doctor”. And so it was for me: retirement and off I went on my first assignment in Nairobi, Kenya. Full of anticipation for the experience, working in completely new areas, the people and the hope of being able to help them. At the same time, I had doubts: could I do it?
The anticipation was more than fulfilled. Even the way to work in the Medical Center, in Nairobi’s largest slum, is an experience. Laughing children accompany us on the dirt roads along the tin huts and stalls, an indescribably colorful picture full of life.
Working for people who would otherwise have little access to medical care.
Diseases that I previously only knew from books, a constant learning process.
Staff, highly motivated locals, helpful and friendly.
The camaraderie among us doctors, we discuss complicated cases and learn from each other.
No more doubts, I can do it.
After just a few days, people wave as they pass by: “Hello Doctor, here I am, you remember me? I am well now.” That’s the reward.
For me personally, medical work has come full circle and the gap that was missing has been filled. A recommendation to all colleagues. And a recommendation to all those who would like to help: Donating to these projects makes sense, this help is getting through!”
