Friday evening we walked into the town of Njinikom and had a beer and something that probably was meat on a stick. Dr Jim assured me I’d live so I tried it. Something like a flat beef jerky. The walk was so interesting, about a mile in length. The homes around here are made of mud brick. Families often live in “compounds” where there is more than one structure and multiple families…usually related. People do buy the land and often take years to acquire enough to build the home themselves. The children are so beautiful and engaging. 
Author Archives: terryhirst
First two days at St Martin de Porres.
Hello….I am at an incredible “compound” that encompasses a hospital (with a newly built TB ward), pharmacy, orphanage, convent, farmland (where they grow food and raise cows, pigs and chickens). All of this in a fairly remote area of northwest Cameroon. There is so much good work done here and the needs are great. Most of the population they serve cannot afford to pay. I am making my way around the compound in and out of wards and bldgs. Haven’t been able to meet with the staff yet as they are so very busy. Yesterday, i witnessed and photographed a circumcision. They are done regularly here. Visited and photographed in the maternity and pediatrics wards. Doing rounds with the head doc on Sunday. Next week, we will go to one of the outpost clinics, photograph the pharmacy where they manufacture some of their own drugs and meet with the staff for an overview of their outreach programs, specifically Project Hope. So much to take in. The people are open and welcoming, even in their vulnerable states. I’m posting a pic of some of the children in the orphanage singing me a welcome song. lots of love…..
First message from Njinikom
hi my loves….i am here in Njinikom…arrived last night around 10 30 after a grueling eye opening 9 hr drive, half of it over very bumpy roads. flights were good, rested one night in douala and set out after picking up 6 midwifery students from belgium. full load in van. today is walk around getting to know what’s what. later, meeting with hospital matron and directors of various programs here so i can get a full overview of the work they do here and to chart my course and schedule when we will go to out posts and do interviews. they are very much excited about my work and believe God has sent me to them;–. no pressure, lol. but they are very passionate about their work and the people they help. the ride here was thru many small towns and the shacks and poverty is prolific. it is everywhere….everywhere. makes your heart hurt and opens your eyes. i must remember to keep my heart open and protected at the same time. my computer is not yet set up to go online so i am in the cafe. hopefully i will be set up soon. lots of love to you and i will be in touch soon.
She arrived safely!
Just to let you know that Terry arrived safely in Doula yesterday and was getting ready for the drive to Njikom today. Not sure how good the Internet is there …. so watch this space!
Rob
Leaving for Africa
I’m so excited to be going to Africa Feb 4th for two + weeks to do some photography and video at a Mission Hospital and Orphanage in Cameroon. I hope to journal and post pics to this blog. If you’d like to see what I’m up to, please register for the blog or click “follow” and you’ll receive notice of the posts. Thanks.
Terry
terry hirst's blog 