As Americans, we live comfortable, if not privileged, lives compared to many of the people in Ghana. When we turn on the faucet, water comes out at any temperature we desire. When we flip the switch, the light goes on as bright or as dim as we please. High speed Internet, high definition TV, surround sound stereo. We have it all. In Ghana, one is never sure if water will flow from the faucet or if the lights will stay on.

This being my first experience in a third world country, I see now that the things we take for granted are almost luxuries in Ghana. The contrasts in our health care systems became apparent as well. We are used to a system with unlimited resources and an abundance of staff. No costs are spared in the treatment of a patient. It's a system that continuously strives to improve upon what it already excels at doing.

The people of Ghana want to improve themselves as well. The desire is there, even if the resources are lacking. We came here to help them expand upon what they already have. Our efforts here demonstrated that not only can heart defects be repaired, but the Ghanaians can and should do it by themselves in the not-too-distant future. Like the saying goes, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

We operated on 11 children on this trip. Their lives will be better for it. But we've also opened the minds of the people to what is possible if one continuously strives to improve.

I'm grateful to have had this opportunity to help some children and touch some lives in a small way. This experience has given me a new perspective on life and made me realize how very fortunate I am.

- John Flaherty

Comments

[Denise Whittaker]

John, I am very proud of you. Every day I am telling people that my brother is in Ghana helping children with heart defects. It brings tears of joy to my eyes. What a wonderful thing to teach your children. You have been an inspiration to me. I have been following the blog every day. Have a safe trip home. Love You, Denise