Hello to one and all–it has been two long years since my last visit here and i couldn’t wait to get back. So many memories were rekindled as i was greeted by familiar faces at the Moiavaro lodge. It was extra special to to have them remember us and receive us again w/ open arms.

The journey up to this point has been everything I dreamed of. We are seeing patients in the Upone clinic right along with doing construction in the exam rooms as we finish off medication cupboards. It is proving a challenge for each and every one of us and and rewarding to see the faces of gratitude of those we are treating.

I was able to catch up with some of the guys I met last time and it is great to know that the seeds we planted around education continue and seem to be making a difference. I spent an hour w/ my friend Jonathan yesterday and he gave me updates on the support groups and how individuals are now starting to take the crisis very seriously and for the young population the mindset is starting to change so that it is now becoming “one man with one woman” instead of several partners–very heart-warming to hear this.

I look forward to the clinic visits each day–the staff is excellent and we have set up a triage area from which we direct patients to the doctors. There is a lot of collegiality which is so rewarding.

Keep readng for updates–this is worth every minute of the loooong flight over here. Look forward to catching up with many of you soon in person.