Larissa was here for two months, and just left us this last weekend. A labor and delivery nurse who is going on for midwifery training, Larissa wanted to see more of third world medical practice. We wait to see what work God will call her into once she completes her training. We know that there is at least one little baby Larissa in Bundibugyo, named after nurse Larissa who met many antenatal and postnatal women during her time here.
Larissa’s sister Renee joined her for her last week here. Taking advantage of her sister’s time in Africa to see the country of Uganda herself. We were amazed and grateful to discover after she arrived that she is a veterinary doctor! She graciously agreed to spay our six month old puppy, Jessy, to protect her from wild dogs and to protect more puppies from the painful and uncertain life they face here. (Unfortunately in a culture where there isn’t always enough food for the people, the “pets” get short shrift and most dogs forage for food looking mostly starved. Because wild dogs sometimes contract rabies and attack people, most people are afraid of all dogs and dogs here are often stoned to death.)
The surgery took place on our back porch. All went smoothly thanks to the expertise of vet Renee and her assistant, sister and nurse Larissa. Dr. Jennifer looked on and assisted to get experience for future team pet needs! Team children can be seen pressed up against the bars of the window behind the surgical scene catching as much as they can of the action. I held Jessy’s head throughout the procedure and tried not to look as miserable as I felt. She was sedated somewhat and pain-free but very uncomfortable because she was not completely out and was afraid. As my dog’s insides were pulled out for all to see as we hunted for her tiny uterus we all got some great lesson in biology; musculature, wound care, suturing, etc.
Jessy ended up with a huge incision but seems none the worse for the wear. She regained her usual energy within two days and we are thankful that no infection has set in.
Life is never dull here!!

100_1433.JPG
100_1436.JPG
100_1431.JPG