One forward and two back or two forward and one back?

We were disappointed this morning to hear that Jhonny would undergo another surgery this afternoon. It was especially difficult for Erselia since many of the women talk about him not coming through this. It took some reassuring that this was not as major as the other surgeries and was only to drain some of the fluids. The specialist felt that it was better to put in another couple of tubes so that things would drain better. So it is back to Jhonny being under anesthesia and waiting for him to show response.

While Jhonny was in surgery two young doctors interviewed Erselia about Jhonny's medical history. Every time she tells it I learn more. The same day that she went in for a checkup for the baby, she took Jhonny along since he was getting worse. The doctor in La Pista had given him Milk of Magnesia but that didn't help. I wonder why? Then in Yapacani the doctor told her that they lived in dirty conditions with pigs and chickens and all Jhonny had was an infection. He didn't check him or order any tests. The lack of caring is almost too much to handle. It seems that if you live in the campo you are automatically (1) dumb and illiterate, (2) dirty, (3) have 'bichos', (4) not deserving of proper medical care.

I asked Erselia what was most important in the campo. (1) clean water. That can be solved by a simple filtration system using buckets and sand. (2) a good doctor. I am not sure we can do anything about that but I hope that we can increase awareness of illness - what is serious and what is not. Maybe a yearly medical team? Anyone willing to take that one on?