Until next time, Cambodia

And suddenly, our two months at Kantha Bopha in Siem Reap are over. We’ve only just arrived, and now we have to head back to Switzerland, where autumn is setting in (a place that couldn’t look more different from Cambodia in the middle of its green/rainy season). You never really realize how quickly time flies until it’s all over.

During this far-too-short time, we lived, laughed, cried, and sometimes even mourned in Cambodia. We familiarized ourselves with the Cambodian healthcare system based on Richner’s ideas. We learned and questioned, discussed and reflected.

We tested our limits and consciously set new ones time and again. We made new friends, explored the country, immersed ourselves in the culture, and tried foods we’d never eaten before. Every day was a step outside our comfort zone. We learned what “rainy season” really means – and that closed-toe shoes definitely aren’t always the best choice ;)

We were particularly touched by the warmth with which we were welcomed—whether in the maternity ward, pediatric surgery, the various ICUs, or pediatric oncology. Everywhere we went, we were warmly welcomed into the team. Everything was always explained and demonstrated to us with great enthusiasm. We truly appreciated this joy in teaching and the willingness to share their knowledge with us.

One of our personal highlights outside of our daily hospital routine was definitely the trip to Kulen Mountain with a large group from the hospital. Of course, we couldn’t turn down this invitation from Professor Chantana. Despite the pouring rain, our group of about 60 hikers set off through the forest until we finally reached our destination: an elephant statue in the middle of the jungle.

We were welcomed with incredible hospitality and invited into the lives of the local people. During a shared dinner with some of the hospital’s doctors, we got a glimpse into their culture, their food, and their great love of karaoke. Of course, we were also allowed (or had to ;)) prove our talent with a karaoke performance. We often heard the phrase: “You are here without your family, so let us be your family here and let us take care of you.” This is not something to be taken for granted, and for that we would like to express our heartfelt thanks.

At the start of our internship, we set ourselves the goal of returning to Switzerland with a suitcase full of experiences, encounters, and memories. We have definitely achieved that goal. The encounters and experiences of these two months will stay with us not only in our professional lives but also in our personal lives.

Many thanks to the tireless Kantha Bopha team – nurses, midwives, medical staff, gardeners, technicians, security, and so many others… You make this hospital what it is – a place where every child, every (expectant) mother, and every family is welcome and receives free, high-quality medical care.

Thank you so much for all the lessons, for the openness and patience you’ve shown us, for the food you’ve shared with us, for the experiences we’ve shared together, and for this time during which we were able to feel at home with you.

Arkun, and see you very soon, Cambodia!

Anaëlle and Sina