Returning is always fraught with the possibility of not being granted either a visa or a permit to practice medicine. Other factors can complicate the journey. This time for Paula, it included some unexpected adventure.

Because her last official interview in the capital city was scheduled several days away, on a Sunday, she went for a 4-day hike in the countryside. But after only two days, staying overnight in a lodge, she got an early-morning message which had been sent the previous day, to say her interview would now be in a few hours time.

“Before 6am the lodge owner phoned a nephew who was fast asleep elsewhere in the village,” Paula says, “then I spent four and a half hours on the back of his motorbike which got me to the capital in time for a quick shower and bite to eat before the interview.” If she hadn’t managed to attend, it would have meant at least another week sitting around waiting.

Paula thanks all her supporters for praying for safe travels.”When I requested prayer for that, I didn’t imagine I’d be doing some of my travel on a motorbike down a steep gravel/dirt road.”

The road to the hospital where she works is about 260 kilometres from the capital, and Paula says, “That travel was also dangerous, with a driver who seemed to be racing another vehicle. I hope to not leave this area for about 6 months; it will be a relief to not travel in or on a motor vehicle for a while!”

Pray

• that Paula will continue to be used well in different hospital departments and will be a blessing to patients and colleagues;
• for good health for everyone during the monsoon season.