Changes all around.

After months and months of waiting, Pedihabilidad has moved over to the new building. Set to open in April of last year, I had come to peace with the fact that I would never see it open. Then, after returning from a meeting on Tuesday, Nicole notified us that the following day we would be moving. The space we were using was needed for isolation for new H1N1 patients. It happened very quickly as the maintenance team began taking things down on Wednesday afternoon and had everything over there by Thursday mid-morning. The new building is right next to the hospital so it was relatively easy for the patients to find us with the signs we put up. One side is for pediatrics and the other side, which is not yet up and running, will be for adults.

We already had planned to have a New Year’s party on Friday and with the building change, we were able to have it there and introduce it to everyone. It was quite the morning. The mayor, provincial director, and hospital director all gave a welcome to kick it off among other speakers. Then, the children each received a toy. Adriana’s former employer, Sports Unlimited, generously donated and shipped toys for all the children of Pedihabilidad. The celebration continued with games. We played musical chairs, hot potato, and had a balloon relay. I was laughing so hard during the games as the crowd shrieked at the intense moments. We then made a mural in the new area with a hand or footprint from each child present. It came out really nice. To finish, there were empanadas (or mashed potatoes for the kids unable to eat solids), cake, and guayusa (typical drink) for everyone. Nobody left empty-handed and I think everyone had a nice time.

After a month without a name, Gaby named her daughter Camila Fernanda. The baby is growing daily and Gaby also is doing well.

The other weekend, Adriana and I made our way to Mindo for ziplining and hiking. We had a good trip!

Today, we have a new speech therapist arriving. Jess will be at Pedihabilidad for 2 months, helping with a feeding and swallowing program. This is a project that is much needed amongst the kids we work with so we are excited to have her join us.

I am finding it hard to believe that I have less than 2 weeks left in Tena. Things are falling into place back home as I have a job lined up as well as an apartment (with HUGE thanks to Margaret Russo for her help!). Going home will be a whirlwind as I catch up with friends and family and welcome my new nephew! I am excited for all of that. However, it will certainly be difficult to leave here. I have made some good friends, the weather is warm, and I have gotten used to working with these kids.