Hello everyone!
I’m Toda, a long-term volunteer nurse in the Dream Train child development program. It has been five months since I came to Myanmar and I have been trying to learn all about the 120 energetic kids here. I’ve been understanding the English medical records through trial and error while the Burmese language is filling the air every day. In this environment, everything is new and it can be a struggle sometimes.
When I first arrived, I frantically tried to remember each child’s face and name, which of them suffer chronic illnesses, what medicines they need and how much. Since many of the children are thin, I had to think about what kind of dietary habits are needed to promote growth. Here, I am also responsible for things that were left to other professions when I was working in a Japanese Hospital. Additionally, I have no experience in paediatric nursing and had to relearn things from my days as a nursing student, such as medicines and dosages for small children and their physical characteristics and common diseases. It is honestly challenging.
When I was working in Japan, I felt that the work I did was supported by others. I often thought that I was only either studying or looking after patients. Being surrounded by medical staff and all of their wisdom is not something that I can rely on here. We have to shoulder the responsibility of protecting and supporting the children ourselves.
However, working like this is fulfilling in its own way. In the last five months, I always felt that learning is the first step in self-development when in a difficult environment. It is thanks to the Burmese staff and children that I feel this way.
It is fun and challenging for people with different cultures, values and backgrounds to strive toward the same goals. I am truly satisfied when we feel we are moving forward and growing together.
The Burmese term “Ya ba deh” (It’s ok/no worries) is something that is said by the staff and children when I’m worried about something. When I hear it, I feel that everything really will be ok.
I am in a position where I am supporting the growth of children and their health, but I often learn from them instead and I just love being in this environment where we grow together.
The start of the new school term has been delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic, but high school students are expected back by September, and elementary and junior high school students are expected back by September. I would like to get through the rainy season when infectious diseases are prevalent while doing my best to support the children who are studying hard!