The tropical rainforests of Central Africa provide suitable living conditions for a wide variety of plants, animals, and microorganisms. The interactions of these organisms result in a wide range of immunity to a variety of diseases, but also result in complex pathological conditions whose cures have not been discovered up to date. Diseases like Malaria, Ebola, and Sleeping Sickness just to mention a few, are still prevalent in Africa. Despite the availability of raw materials, which are of biomedical value, the incidence and prevalence of these diseases are a major health concern. It is in this environment that I beat the odds not only to recount my story, but also to become a solution to the problem.
My childhood experiences at my village clinic were life changing. The patient overload at any given time was overwhelming due to the lack of physicians. Coming to the clinic for routine treatment was horrifying, not because of needles. Most of the patients who occupied the beds seemed to be fighting to stay alive. Some looked so malnourished. Others could barely breathe, and if they did, coughed out blood. There were some who did not survive, and sheets would be put over them, usually suggesting patient expiration and subsequent mourning of family members. I could barely do anything to remedy the situation, and it haunts me to this day. I am so thankful to the Lord to have spared my life in the midst of all this agony to recount it to all. I believe that I will finally be at peace when I am able to become a solution to this plight.
It is mostly those painful experiences that I remember. At the time, I couldn't do anything about it and it troubles me to this day. This is how I know that practicing medicine is my destiny. Being able to bring a sick person to full health is my dream and medical school will be a step in the right direction. It is my passion not only to help humanity by providing healthcare, but also to use the acquired knowledge to...