Lots of time away!

So...

It's been awhile since my last blog for many reasons. 1) No internet access in our dorm rooms or anywhere on the hospital campus (for fear of someone hacking into the network). 2) We have been dealing with "Jenna drama" most of the week as her bag (also known as purse in the US) got stolen with everything inside...wallet with credit cards/ID/debit cards, passport, phone charger, checkbook, cash, etc. Therefore, you must know understand why I have been distant.

This past week:

-After 4 days of orientation to the hospital, Jenna and I felt like we knew more about this place than we ever wanted to know. Also, these people are completely paranoid about fires and we spent almost 1 of the 4 days talking about what to do if there is a fire. We also spent time going over more needless information, but according to Sue Hall (our clinical director) it was mandatory.

-I encourage you to read Jenna's blog (jennaandnapesineurope@blogspot.com) under the section, "The Sunnier Side of London", to hear more about the hospital. She has filled in lots of info about what the hospital is like, why it is what it is, etc.

-We spent Monday at the "lovely" restaurant where Jenna's purse got stolen and then later at the police station (after riding in the Police van), Tuesday I went to ASDA (UK Walmart) to stock up on groceries, Wednesday we came to check some emails and got Subway but I began to get a cold and went home early to rest, Thursday we went to The US Embassy to get Jenna's new passport, Friday (today) was our first day working with patients.

-The hospital experience today was very nice and I will be working on the wards with very involved patients that have had traumatic brain injuries. This ranges from people who have been in car accidents, had strokes, or crazy illnesses that have led them to be completely debilitated and dependent on others. The system is very different here compared to the US so many people stay for months or even years. Hopefully I can make an impact during my short time and I'm very much looking forward to the experience.

I encourage y'all to ask any questions about things because I'm sure you're curious and I may not respond to everything. Leave them in my comments and I'll be sure to tackle the questions in the next post. Like I said, internet access isn't very easy to come by, so I'll respond as quickly as possible, but unless you don't hear from me for weeks...don't be scared!

Take care, pray for Jenna and I to stay safe and sane!!!

Melissa