The town finally got internet back a while ago, but the office doesn't. The past week has been a blur despite lack of communication with people back home. I have been working from 8-7 everyday, and each day has been filled to the brim. I have been doing research for my project which entails analyzing the differences between offices within the country and trying to find a way to standardize processes by improving client loads and recruitment. It's been a little hard gathering the information throughout the day and recording everything I see.
Last week I travelled to Puerto Plata, which has been by far the most beautiful place I've visited. It's almost colonial, almost Miami, almost Chile. It's hard to explain. The people there were so friendly, and enjoyed the company of Americans. They greeted us whenever we walked by. We even found this DELICIOUS panaderia where a man and his young son make terrific bread. It felt like a place Anthony Bourdain would go to and write about. The man was so kind, and very proud of his work, as he should be as it was very delicious.
I broke my camera and can no longer take any pictures. I am very upset about it, because now I am unable to capture the special moments of my travels, like what happened today.
Some dentists from the capital volunteered to offer their services for free to a poor community in Hato Mayor. I was invited to go along. As soon as I got to the small church, I was told to put some gloves on and help out. There were about 50 patients, sadly not all were able to receive treatment. Regardless, it was interesting to witness. People used tables, toilet paper as pillows, buckets and cups for rinsing, and plastic chairs for the operations. I helped out by holding flashlights in the patients mouth, squirting water between the teeth, holding down their tongue with that mirror thing, and holding tools. It was crazy!!! The people were so grateful. Many were in pain, but felt so relieved afterwards. Children were crying everywhere, which is expected. The dentist is a scary person! We worked in the hot church for about 6 hours. I had so much fun, and will never forget the smiles on the children and the people. The dentists were so happy to be there, as was I.
