When I was in Rwanda a few years ago, there was a film crew working with us to create the film you are about to see. This is not the final version–there are a few small details that need to be corrected, but it does a great job of capturing the experience. You can see … More Postcard from Rwanda
Time always goes too fast here in Rwanda. We run around all day, go out at night, then rinse and repeat. Here’s a small snapshot of my day. It’s now Saturday and I leave on Monday night. But tomorrow!! I am going on a quick safari tomorrow, to see Akagera National Park. I will take … More A day in the life
When I tell people at home that I am coming to Africa, there are several reactions: worry that I will never come home, amazement that I would go so far, excitement for the adventure that awaits, and joy that I am able to do this. Honestly, I feel all the same emotions as the trip … More God’s plan
Yes, that’s right, the best steak of my life in Rwanda. And the wine was pretty amazing too. I know it’s hard to imagine, but there’s more to Africa than safari and desert. But the day preceding the steak was long and hard for the surgeons. Here’s today’s vlog. https://youtu.be/YWurFd6jqwA
We have arrived! Having now made this trip 3 times prior, I now know what to expect: the plane ride is long (I hope no one sits next to me so I can stretch out–this is rare), Rwandan customs and immigration is a mess but I get through it eventually, and the night we arrive … More Arrival
Today I am sharing the story of one of IOWD’s former patients, Alexia. To jumpstart my fundraising effort this year, I am raffling off one of the shopping bags that Alexia makes. For each $25 you donate, you will get one entry into a drawing for the bag. I will announce the winner the day … More How fistula surgery changes lives
I am happy to announce that I am heading back to Rwanda on January 25, 2019. I have purchased my plane ticket and am beginning to gather my thoughts. This is my fourth year going, and sitting down to write this has helped me to remember the many reasons I keep going back. I realize … More Heading back in 2019
While I was in Rwanda in February 2018, there was a team there filming video and taking photos of our work. This is a short segment of what I hope will be a longer video. It features the founder of IOWD, Barbara Margolies, as well as several of the physicians I work with, including Star … More Video from IOWD
I am happy to announce that the Rwandan Ministry of Health, with the aid and encouragement of IOWD, is in the process of building a 3rd operating room at Kibagabaga Hospital in Kigali. This is the primary hospital where the team operates while in Rwanda. Having a third operating room will allow surgeons to perform … More August 2018: Updates!
