From Leratong Mount Argus, Dublin.
Visit from Leratong Hospice Staff.

An exchange programme between Our Lady's Hospice, Dublin and the Leratong Hospice, Saulsville, Pretoria, took place for two weeks in March. A group of 6 nurses and 1 doctor visited us and were involved in a refresher course in the Harold's Cross and the Blackrock hospices. They also attended lectures in the College of Surgeons for three days. While here they resided at St Clare's Convent, Harold's Cross and had meals in Mount Argus or with friends of the hospice. In spite of a tight schedule, they managed to spend a weekend in Belfast hosted by Mr and Mrs Creagh, parents of Fr Kieran CP who is director of Leratong. To show their appreciation for all the support, personal and financial from us they attended an Evening Mass on Tuesday 8th March at which they thanked the people and sang traditional African songs. After the Mass they met many of the parishioners who are benefactors and shared their experience over a cup of tea. Their 2 week visit concluded with a trip to the city to watch the St. Patrick's Day Parade.

They left the following impressions for the newsletter:

The Irish people taught me that you must do unto others as you would like them to do unto you. I will apply this standard in Leratong. (Petra)

Ireland like South Africa practices 'UBUNTU'- care for one another. I found the health services excellent in Dublin and Belfast. The one unpredictable was the weather - never experienced anything like it. (Henrietta)

What impressed me most in Ireland was the hospitality of the people. They were loving and caring and helped us in many ways.
(Maria Rakgoale)

I found the Irish people to be very religious. Everywhere you travel there are churches, symbols of their religion and faith.
(Margaret Majola)

The Irish are most hospitable, kind and accommodating to visitors, especially foreigners. They show no sign of discrimination. (Ramigia)

I was impressed by how polite the Irish are - always ready to help. The standard of knowledge and hospice care in both places is very high. (Namabulu Regina Mary )

I learned about the anti HIV drug combinations here in Ireland. I was very impressed with the zest and vigour with which the Irish transformed HIV/AIDS from being a deadly disease to be a chronic illness like diabetes or TB. Kindly continue to take us Africans under your wing as you progress so we can tap into your expertise and get help. Many thanks.
(Dr. Sello Ivor Malarji - Hospice Doctor)