What are the benefits for a Board Certified American doctor
to work full time for twelve years in the developing world?
When I first came to the Northern Region of Ghana, I did
not foresee the numerous benefits.

Living in a different culture continues to be the biggest reward.
The people are polite, kind, thoughtful, religious and show
great respect for their dead. Like any society there are
exceptions, but they are few. Learning a new language has
been fun although it requires a lifelong attempt to master.
The food, rich in vegetables and fruit, includes dishes very
different from those experienced in the U.S.

As a doctor, I have grown and have been humbled by being
the only specialist for two million inhabitants when I first arrived.
Many patients present with illnesses that are already well
advanced. In addition to practicing my particular specialty of
otolaryngology, I must care for a variety of medical conditions
because of the lack of other specialists. A doctor in the
developing world has to be his/her own secretary, fundraiser,
purchaser, custom clearer and repairman.

Our medical visitors are a joy, even if I am left to care for the
complications their patients may have afterwards. On my trips
home, I have enjoyed Istanbul, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Cairo,
Rome and soon Cape Town.

Once in town a boy came over to say hello, his way of
thanking me. Many appreciate my work and I am content
in doing this needed healthcare.

  Ear, Nose and Throat Nursing Students

Child who had a groundnut (peanut) in the trachea 

is better after removal yesterday