Under Construction

Yesterday was quite the busy day; somewhat exhausting, but nothing less than enjoyable.

The day began with me as a volunteer to Mission Circumcision, a tuli mission sponsored by my class for young boys from our four less-privileged community partners in Pasay City. As one of my class’ members with more experience with the surgical procedure, I was picked to be one of the first to perform it. I had been attending these missions since first year Intarmed, and I must say I have progressively garnered the proper skills and the confidence required. Though as much as I would’ve wanted to operate on more kids yesterday, limitations with time and number of patients allowed us all only one boy each. Nevertheless, the experience was still as fulfilling as every time I get to immerse in the community, relating with the community workers and getting a glimpse of simple urban life. Plus, the “surgery high”, as always, was the icing on the cake.

After a very hearty lunch care of the barangay health workers, some of us were due in the afternoon for Fly For L.I.F.E., a kite-flying activity arranged by my org as part of our partnership with Leukemic Indigents Fund Endowment, Inc., a non-stock non-profit organization involved in providing financial and psychosocial support for children afflicted with the disease. The entire afternoon was truly heartwarming, seeing my friends enjoying themselves while bonding with and giving joy to the kids.

I in particular did not get to fly a kite with a kid; instead I got to care for sleeping Dale, an exhausted little four-year old who earlier had already been enjoying himself with his family. Seeing that little boy sleeping soundly in my arms was just - how to put it? Breath-taking? Being a father had always been a lifelong dream, and this got me thinking how I would handle the situation of having a sick child. I’d probably drop everything, to do all in my power to support my child.

After that long afternoon (eventually I did get to fly a kite, just proudly saying), some of my iMed friends and I made our way by foot back to our side of Manila and had Chinese for dinner. Afterwards we went next door at The Oarhouse, where we relived a few memories and talked about other people and other childish stuff (we even spent time playing Draw Something!) over a few beers and fries. It was the perfect way to unwind and end a day spent in the company of 2014 and iMed, not only the most youthful people I have met but also the most loyal friends one can ask for.