General Impression
Overall Rating: / 10
My name is Chole and I recently volunteered in Cambodia, at the Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital in Phnom Penh. I worked in the pediatric department. I can honestly say it was the most valuable and rewarding experience of my life so far. I was able to work with the nurses, providing first line treatment to children suffering from tuberculosis, HIV, malnutrition and a multitude of other conditions. I was also lucky enough to have the opportunity to help with the development of practical skills for medical students.The staff and patients were incredible. I have never worked in an environment where even the smallest gesture is so utterly appreciated. Working with people who have nothing, showed me how little is needed to show you genuinely care about people and their wellbeing. Something as simple as a stethoscope on a baby's chest provided so much comfort and reassurance to a mother, who feared her child.
The Cambodian culture is so rich and the people are warm and an absolutely inspirational to talk to. From the shop owner who survived a land mine explosion and has gone on to help other victims, to the waitress who is a blind orphan, yet still managed to achieve a university degree in a field she loves. These are people who can overcome great adversity to achieve incredible things. I was so lucky to spend even 5 minutes with these inspirational people.
If the time I spent in Phnom Penh helped even one person, made one child smile or made one parent feel more at ease... I achieved something wonderful.
I can not recommended volunteering highly enough. It really is the experience of a life time and Love Volunteers made it easy and hassle free. I felt well supported and safe in their hands in the lead up, and during my time in Cambodia.
Thank you Love Volunteers, for the most incredible and fulfilling experience of my life.