Familiar fragrances

It happens every time.  While descending the steps to the airport tarmac, the first impression of Kigali is through the sense of smell; fragrances that evoke rich memories: moist tropical air, eucalyptus fires, pleasing bouquet of tropical flowers, harsh smell of engines.

Our dear friend, Emmy, has met me once again. The streets are quiet at 11:30 PM. We drive along palm lined boulevards, lit with soft streetlights. Each year there are new streets, fancy buildings, and more lights.  The city has transformed from my first visit in 2008 when there were few paved roads and no streetlights. We drive past the new convention centre - beehive shaped and rich in colour.

Christophe is waiting at the apartment, which he has kept immaculately clean. I am relieved that my luggage has arrived and I stay up unpacking. With earplugs in place and the fan on, I drifted off to the slightly muffled sounds from the lively all-night bar across the street.

I had set an alarm but forgot about the sun.  It comes on full blast and there is no point in trying to sleep in. My plan today was to get "operational" (food, water, cell phone, Serena membership) and to prepare the simulation centre for Monday.  The operational part happened in record time.  I love that you can get a month of virtually unlimited internet on your phone for $34 Can in 5 minutes.  

I was pleasantly surprised by the sim centre.  There are two new lab technicians working there. One was away today but the other is bright and keen.  It was enormously reassuring to learn there is good support for the sim centre.  Dr Jeanne was teaching a class of medical students this afternoon - theory and practice of basic anesthesia skills. It is heartwarming to see these young people having such a great space for learning.  

I had lunch with Paulin and we began discussing our massive "to do" list.  Paulin is the program director but also the acting head of department in Theo's absence.  He is full of passion and energy.  It is a joy to be with him again.

Michelle, you will be happy to hear that Silver (Serena waiter) had twin babies born 2 days ago (boy and a girl, 2.6 kg and 2.8 kg at 38 weeks).  He is beaming.  News of a happy, healthy twin delivery is most auspicious as we begin a month of obstetric anesthesia teaching.  May we all work together for healthy mothers and babies.