Bandhs

Let me tell you about bandhs (sp?). They are organized protests that occur regularly in Nepal and usually are held by one of many tribes. Of course, each protest has certain demands which usually include increased representation at the local or national level. However, almost daily we hear some news about these protests because they effectively shut down almost all transportation between major areas in Nepal. I forgot to mention in my earlier blog that we rode in ambulances to this location because only ambulances (medical transports) would be allowed past any road blockades. When asked about the duration of protests in general, the locals always say it's unpredictable. However, that should not affect our departure.

The location that we are staying in is very safe because it is a self-contained city within a city with its own power generator and water purification plant. It has a communal feel to it. Honestly, it is paradise compared to the poverty that lies outside the walls of the medical center.

Well, in terms of the medical update, we are planning our remaining cases for the next few days and will perform surgical cases up to Thursday. Friday will be for sightseeing and Saturday we will be headed back to Kathmandu. So far, we have worked primarily on adult urology cases, which was quite unexpected and somewhat frustrating for most of our team members. Nevertheless, everyone is holding up well and just focusing on helping out as best as we can.

All my best to everyone out there and I'll blog with you again with more incriminating photos.

~Rich