Immersion with a Purpose: September 3rd 2019- Sarah Basharkhah

In the field with Dr. Gutierrez

September 3

I have both witnessed and experienced illness during this program. Being physically unwell while abroad is not an experience I would wish upon anyone. During the few days that I felt unwell was the time that I felt the most homesick. I wanted nothing more than to have my mom beside me at those times. While my bout with illness lasted only a few days, I have seen my fellow friends also struggle throughout the program. This really put my perspective of health into a new light. I came to Bolivia to offer a hand to the health care system, but it was really the caring health team that delivered me back to good health. It has made me incredibly more grateful for my good health. Furthermore, I am now more determined than ever to pursue this journey so that I am one day able to offer a return to good health to my patients. This effect is not one that will fade anytime soon. I will continue to foster this line of thinking throughout the process of becoming a healthcare provider. Health is a right that everyone deserves. I am aware of this more than ever, especially when I see the patients enter the centers of health day in and day out. They come in to ensure their right to a clean life, physically and emotionally, just as everyone on this Earth deserves. I am grateful for this program and the past few weeks. During a short time, I learned a great deal and I will be leaving with a new attitude than when I arrived.

In the field at Puerto Mejillones Clinic

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Welcome to the UC Davis Blum Center Blog!

Here you will find updates on our organization, and blog posts written by each of our Blum Fellows about their experiences abroad. Make sure to check out our website at blumcenter.ucdavis.edu, and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/UCDavisBlumCenter to get regular updates and see our upcoming events.

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