The Health Day

The Health Day started early. As we entered the Education Center, I felt a rush of excitement looking at the rows of chairs and the big white tent. Those seat were going to fill with patients excited for the free check up we were offering them. Doctors came in early with eagerness to help the Mauritians who don’t have the means to get proper medical attention. Immediately we started to prepare for the big day. We tidied up the center so that patients will easily know where to go and who to talk to. We arranged booths for doctors so that pateints could be seen in a private setting. We set up the table where free food was going to be offered. As the Health Day begun, people started coming in a steady rate. First were our students. I felt a pang in my heart when I saw them get their vitals and vision checked. These students who come from difficult backgrounds, who offered me so much love and exhibit so much potential, were receiving healthcare. There were times during our program when students were unable to come to the center because they were ill. It reminded me again and again that without health, education is meaningless, and by ensuring their health, I felt ELI-Africa was offering the one of the best gifts we could give me. Soon, the parents of the students and the local residents flowed in. We were very busy. There were constantly lines of people waiting to be called in. Things very well could have ended up chaotic. However, our fellows and volunteers were on top of organizing and making sure everything went smoothly. Moreover our students helped a tremendous amount. Top FM came to help as well, and they entertained the patients and the students, so that everyone was having a great time. Weetabix and Top FM and Merci brought in delicious food and snacks that everyone enjoyed. In three hours, we had seen more than 200 patients. In the afternoon, we had a ceremony where we thanked our sponsors and volunteers, and then it was our students’ time. We danced together, sang together, and presented to our local community all the hard work that we had done. There was no doubt that the students impressed the audience, as they were taking pictures, laughing with joy, and clapping enthusiastically. As I watched the students perform, I could stop my tears falling. I loved these children– whom I may have never met without ELI Africa– more than I ever imagined I would. I was sad that I was leaving them the next day. I was missing them already before I was leaving. I prayed for them, that their life would allow them all the opportunity they deserve and foster their potential, because they can all become amazing individuals who change the world. I wished I could stay in Mauritius to be with them side-by-side as they are growing up. I promised to myself that I would be there for them even though I would be on the other side of the earth. I could see that I wasn’t the only one thinking this, as the eyes of our fellows were also watery. I was overwhelmed with emotion, and was thankful for such an amazing day, the amazing experience.
Overall, the Health Day was a tremendous success. It could not have been any better. I want to thank our sponsors and volunteers, especially the doctors who gave up their precious time despite their impossible schedule. The two months of ELI Africa would not have been possible without their support and generosity.