Some of us travelling to Uganda this summer have been joking a bit about how it's not a question IF you wil get sick, but rather WHEN and of WHAT. I can already answer these questions for myself with «day 6 » and «bacterial stomache infection» (kremt). Being sick has of course been both painful, boring and annoying. What's surprising me is however, how this experience in many ways also has been a positive one. First of all I've had the best helpers I could possibly ask for in all of the AIM participants. I don't think one of them have gone through these days without giving me my medicine, making my bed, byuing me different stuff (like a phone), washing my face, taking me to the clinic, order me food and drinks – and then sit for hours encouraging me to take it down.
Secondly, it did not take long until I understood that in Uganda, people who are sick are treated differently than in Norway. In Norway we might send an sms saying «get well soon» to the person sick - if barely that. In Uganda, on the other hand, people you have met once or twice (or not at all) comes to visit you and show their respect. They engage highly in how you are doing, and ask quite intimate questions about your health. A bit uncomfortable at first, but as I see it a sign of real concerne. Even though the whole sickness experience was both interesting and different, I am truly happy I'm feeling healthy as a fish now!
Hanna
Delegation Leader
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