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The new CIMS director, Dr. David Sunday (right) – alongside Assistant Directors Dr. Norah Ndi and Dr. Gerard Tchinda.
Following the turnover, I worked with the residency in Mbingo for the first week of July – after which it was a joy to return to Banso once again. The work in Banso Baptist Hospital preceded a scheduled “send-off.” In asking BBH to host this occasion, my principal aim was to use the event to commemorate the courage of the BBH staff – who continue to serve in the face of considerable adversity. It was mentioned to my Banso family during the send-off that, with my first 26 years in Cameroon having been spent in ‘Nso’ land, they were the only ones who could legitimately host such an occasion. (The prefix “Ba” means “people of,” with “Nso” designating the tribal area.) As explained to those gathered, when rounding on Mbingo patients, one would occasionally ask where I was from. The reply routinely offered – that I was from “Nso” – would invariably be met with laughter.
Former BBH administrator, Mrs. Rose Ndzenyiuy, addresses the assembly.
Presentation of a purse by Mr. Shey Spellian – to accompany the African dress and hat.
It was equally a pleasure to be able to work with our house officers (or GP’s) in BBH. We have a group of doctors there who are very keen to learn. In line with that, I prepared talks for each morning we were together. In addition to didactic sessions, the chaplains (who usually lead the weekly Bible study) asked me to do so. That was the greatest privilege of all as I chose to focus the group’s attention on the prophecy given by the angel Gabriel to Daniel in chapter 9 of that book. In light of recent events in Israel, I believe this portion of Scripture has great relevance for today’s world.
Group photo with some of the BBH staff – taken in front of the Out-Patient Department.
The CIMS residents hosted a lovely party as well – complete with games. Then again, the CIMS alumni have organized themselves in a most admirable way – convening in the city of Bafoussam, some four hours distant from Mbingo for their annual meeting. It was an impressive event – with internists from each hospital in turn reporting on their institutions, mostly relating challenges. This afforded an opportunity for trouble-shooting, as well as sharing ways to improve services. Two academic presentations were made at the meeting, and a scientific committee was also established. This was launched for the purpose of starting to share important cases within the group, as well as to begin to pursue regular publications in scientific journals. It was a delight to witness these innovations made by very capable colleagues.
Gathering of the CIMS alumni for their annual meeting – with internists here representing some eight institutions throughout the Health Board.
Now preparing to depart in August, it is with a heart full of gratitude for them – and for you who made all of this possible.