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By: John Guilfoyle BA, MD, BCh, BAO, FCFP

The Carribbean Airlines flight from Port of Spain banked gracefully above the lush green forest on the descent to Timehri Airport near Georgetown, the capital of Guyana. Nestled between Venezuela and Suriname, perched atop Brazil, just above the equator, Guyana is the only English-speaking country in South America. The AIP team had arrived to be greeted by a short monsoon-like shower that made disembarking a little less leisurely. Coming from BC, Ontario and Quebec, the team assembled for the first time to get luggage and negotiate immigration and customs. No hitches. We were soon on our way to Georgetown for a rendezvous and lunch with ALARM International Program (AIP) manager Chris Nadori. She had preceded the team and done sterling work to ensure that the formidable logisitics required to deliver the first of a series of courses were in place.

The rest of the day and evening was spent planning, assigning responsibilities, reviewing equipment and learning a little more about the particular challenges to women’s health in Guyana. Then, back to our rooms for a frantic preparation of our individual tasks.

Up bright and early, breakfast and a taxi ride later, we were at the site, a gracious colonial style hotel where we were warmly greeted by a very accommodating and helpful staff.

The forty participants arrived. A mix of doctors, midwives and medexes (outpost health care workers) who beautifully represented the diversity of the people who make up Guyana.

The course was kicked off by a series of speeches given by Dr Janice Woolford, Director of Maternal and Child Health, followed by Dr. Kitty Israels, PAHO representative to Guyana, and rounded off by an inspiring address by Dr.Leslie Ramsammy, Minister of Health.

The next 6 days were a whirlwind of activity; we were busy from dawn until dusk. Buoyed by the enthusiasm and interest of the participants and encouraged by the positive and nurturing environment created by the unstinting input of all members, the team went from strength to strength. The various talents of the team members were called upon and opportunities and encouragement given to try the less familiar. Moments of laughter were intermingled with times of pathos as we heard stories from caregivers who work in environments almost inconceivable to those of us who have become accustomed to the privilege of adequate resources. The enthusiasm and the passion of those who choose to help women to deal with childbirth were palpable. We truly learned together.

Evenings were a meal, a debriefing and preparation for the next day. Too soon, this rhythm was over, exams were done and certificates awarded. The last day, training the trainers, had about 20 participants who were selected for their roles and locations that would facilitate the training of others. Again, we were impressed at the level of skills and determination of the participants, some of whom had to make real personal struggles to attend.

With some regret, the team made its various ways back to Canada. Wistful that we did not have more time to enjoy this lovely country and its gentle people; awed, by wonderful caregivers who provided service in difficult circumstance; hopeful that the little we did was acceptable and useful; and thankful that we had the opportunity to serve and support this important initiative.