Day 3 - Nicaragua

Feliz añu nuevo to Nicaragua and happy new year to the States! Today was filled a lot of Spanish practice. We went to the homes of different communities in Masaya, Nicaragua to gather medical histories for census information. It sure was an eye opener... We generally did not take pictures of the homes because it would come off as rude but some people didn't mind. But I can tell you that the floors were of dirt and water was often thrown on the ground to keep it patted down and smooth. Most of the homes were not made of permanent parts and people spent their time outside. Sorry to say, but LOTS of stray dogs wandered the communities hungry because they are not considered pets, though some do have collars. Latrines were used as toilets, which is basically a 5 foot hole in the ground and was treated with calcium to clear out the bacteria over time. Drinking water was kept in buckets and covered, while laundry water was not covered and a lot of mosquito larvae was inside. We advised everyone to cover their water to prevent outbreaks of dengue fever. Despite the poor living conditions, the people were incredibly nice and understanding of our poor Spanish speaking abilities. They answered everyone question to the best of their knowledge and always offered us a place to sit, even if it was their own chair. Garbage was piled high in the streets or is generally burned to get rid of it. A lot of the people worked in mini grocery stores in their own home as their main form of work and sold snacks and soda. Though their culture and lifestyle is completely different from ours, their outlook on life through spirituality and positivity is tenfold to what we practice. They are proud Nicaraguan citizens and I'm so grateful to have met them! 

Granadia fruit

This water is treated by the Minsa or health center which is why it's so clear

As a New Year's tradition,the  Nicaraguan people will light these "spirits" on fire at midnight let go of the year that has ended to free room for peace in the new year. These lifelike dolls are made of old clothes, shoes and toys and filled with fire crackers

Happy New Year from our AC Global Health group!

Team leader Adrianna

I miss all of my family and friends very much and I love you all. Tomorrow is a day full of clinical diagnoses and I can't wait!