When I heard about this job, I knew immediately that I had to take it. It was exactly the kind of experience that others always talk about with enthusiasm. I felt like I had a unique opportunity to grow and experience something completely new. So I applied - and got the job. But the closer I got to the day of departure, the more nervous and insecure I became. Without the support of my family and friends, I would never have dared to take this step.
When I arrived, it was a national holiday and we had the day off. Although I was a stranger, medical student Luca and some staff members took me on an incredible trip to Kulen Mountain. This gave me the chance to get to know the Cambodians in a relaxed environment. Even after that first day, I realized that I had nothing to fear. The people there may not have much, but they have hospitality, friendliness, helpfulness and a strong sense of community - and that in abundance.
I also experienced these values in the working environment: they were not only focused and competent, but also incredibly team-oriented. They helped each other wherever help was needed and approached every situation with remarkable patience and calm.
My colleagues quickly became friends. They invited me into their homes for traditional Khmer dinners, showed me their favorite places and restaurants and took me on excursions to introduce me to their culture and home. Many even made an effort to learn about my culture - some could even say simple sentences in German by the end.
They taught me so much. They were patient with me, took time for me and supported me. The words “Step by step. Don't worry. You can do this.” I heard so often in the operating theater that they became my new motto in life. Not only did I learn a lot about surgery, but I was also allowed to actively participate in the operations. This gave me confidence in my own abilities and decision-making skills. I was always welcome in every department - which is not a matter of course. I am forever grateful for that.
In obstetrics, I was confronted with a completely new challenge: Suddenly I had two patients - and one of them was tiny and fragile. I was terrified of doing something wrong or harming the baby. Without the doctors' support, encouragement and guidance - in the truest sense of the word, because they took my hands in theirs and guided me - I would never have managed it. But now I can bring a baby into the world with confidence and without fear. I was allowed to assist and work a lot during the caesarean sections. Who would have thought that I would be so happy about a crying, kicking baby?
But there were not only beautiful moments. There were also heartbreaking, infinitely sad experiences. For example, the case of a mother who needed a hysterectomy after a placenta percreta. Two days and around 40 bags of blood later, she died - leaving behind a newborn baby and a devastated family. I was there for the operation, and the joy of having a healthy baby was immediately followed by a fear I had never felt before. She was one of many women who suffer this tragic fate. This experience motivated me to donate blood. If I could, I would donate blood every week in the hope that it could help a mother in need. But there were also hopeful moments - such as when another mother, who was in intensive care after a hysterectomy, was finally extubated and able to speak to her family.
In the intensive care unit, many doctors took the time to teach me the essential management of inpatients - valuable knowledge that I will need often.
Next month I start my new job in the gynecology department at Bülach Hospital. I'm looking forward to applying the knowledge and skills I acquired in Cambodia to my next position. Thanks to my experience in Siem Reap, I am now facing the new challenge with more confidence and without fear. And I hope that I will learn many more new things there.
When I look back on the last two months, I know for sure that it was the best decision of my life. If it were up to me, I would stay. What this hospital does for so many children and mothers - with maximum capacity and competence - has impressed me deeply. I could never put into words how valuable this hospital is for people. You have to see and experience it for yourself to understand it.
It is therefore with a heavy heart that I say goodbye and thank everyone who made this unique experience possible for me - especially the staff at this hospital.
With best regards
Anett
Comments