In my heart – for the rest of my life …

It's been a few weeks, since my time in Cambodia came to an end. It was a wonderful and enriching experience, just as impressive as it had been described in the reports of previous participants. I was able to gather numerous new impressions and learn valuable practical skills.

At the end of my stay, I gave a short speech to express my gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and all the other staff who taught me so much with such dedication and welcomed me so warmly. Below is the text of that speech – I believe it is the best way to put my gratitude into words.

Good morning everyone, Arun Suosudei

As today is my second last day here in Siem Reap, I would like to share a few words with you.

If I go back in time about a year ago, I still remember exactly where I was when I received the E-Mail saying I had been accepted to come to Cambodia. I was so excited that I got the opportunity that I immediately called my mother to tell her the news. I knew from the beginning that this was going to be an incredible experience – but I had no idea just how deeply it would surpass all my expectations.

From the moment I arrived at Kantha Bopha Hospital, I was welcomed with open arms. What I found here was not just a hospital full of dedicated professionals and strong and brave patients, but a vibrant community full of generosity, warmth, and a lot of knowledge to share.

These two months have been filled with unforgettable moments, and that is thanks to all of you. Many of these moments were “firsts” for me. I performed my first lumbar puncture. I learned how to tie surgical knots and how to do a good donate suture. I helped ventilate a child. I witnessed my first delivery. These are experiences I will never forget.

But what made this time truly meaningful wasn’t just the medical practice. It was the people around me. You didn't just teach me clinical skills – you shared your language, your stories, your food, your jokes, and your culture. Despite the differences in background, I felt connected, accepted, and valued.

There were certainly challenging days—moments that were emotionally intense and times when the limitations of available resources made providing care even more difficult. Yet, even on those days, your positivity never wavered. You continued to give the very best care possible, with unwavering dedication and compassion. I have been deeply moved by your commitment to your patients and to one another.

What I take with me from this experience is far more than medical knowledge. I’ve learned about true teamwork, resilience, humility in practice, and above all, the quiet but powerful impact of kindness. A smile in the hallway, a steady hand guiding me during a procedure, a few encouraging words when I needed them most—those moments meant everything.

As I return to Switzerland, I carry with me immense respect and admiration for the work you do every day for the mothers and children in your care. I genuinely loved coming to work each day, and this experience will remain one of the most meaningful chapters of my journey toward becoming a doctor.

Cambodia, especially Siem Reap, will always hold a special place in my heart. I am leaving here not only with new knowledge and skills, but with memories and friendships I will carry for the rest of my life.

With that, I would like to thank the entire team at Kantha Bopha. Thank you Professors for giving me this opportunity and thank you to all the doctors, nurses and students for sharing your knowledge with me. Thank you for trusting me and for making me feel like part of the Kantha Bopha family. And most importantly: Thank you for giving me a home away from home.

Arkun chraen, and see you again – hopefully not for the last time.

Rebecca