Good morning,
The first week spent in Dominica has created a different perspective for me personally. I have developed acquaintances with the staff at Jungle Bay, built stronger relationships with my peers, and learned a significant amount of knowledge from the people who have lived in Dominica for most of their life. An entire history of tradition and culture is unraveling before our eyes and it is quite incredible.
A concern I had before my travels to Dominica was my ability to maneuver the natural terrain of the island. Currently, I am recovering from a foot injury and am on crutches. The staff here at Jungle Bay are exceptional and their hospitality is well appreciated. I am thankful to be in the care of such wonderful friends. Despite my inability to participate in the magnificent hiking opportunities, I am quite satisfied with the activities I have been able to experience.
This past week I have attended two health clinics. I have had the time to speak with many patients about their health and immunizations.
The group also spent time with Moses, a local medicine man who practices Bush medicine. His knowledge of the number of plants and herbs on Dominica for medicinal use is phenomenal. He explained to the group people visit him and tell him about their symptoms. Moses is then able to identify a plant or an herb specific to their symptoms, which is outstanding.
We also attended the House of Hope for a day. Our objective for the first visit was to become introduced to the volunteers and children, interact with the children, and begin drawing murals on the walls. We plan to finish drawing and painting the murals this week during our second visit.
We also went to the capital of Dominica, Roseau, on Saturday for a Market Tour and hiking at Trafalgar Falls. The Market Place was particularly interesting. Many people there had fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and Bush medicine to sell. We also ate a local rerestaurant, Pearl's Cuisine, and visited Jolly's Pharmacy. The group will return to Roseau for the Creole World Music Festival at the end of this week. Our visit to Trafalgar Falls was incredible. The hiking trail to the pavilion looking up at the falls was mostly all steps and level ground. However, the rest of the trail beyond the pavilion descending to the falls and was more treacherous. There were wet boulders and other small rocks the group had to pass. Carlos was one of the guides on our hike. I was grateful for Carlos' help in guiding me up the steps to the falls. It was a challenge using the crutches up the steps to the falls, but the moment I saw the spectacular view my heart sank. I realized the personal accomplishment I made and the determination I had in order to see the breathtaking view. He stayed with me at the pavilion as we both enjoyed the beautiful scenery of the two waterfalls. Carlos explained to me one waterfall produces cold water and the other produces hot water. Also, one waterfall is used for hydro-electricity. The sounds both waterfalls created was peaceful and taking the time to listen to nature was a reward in itself.
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