Newcastle Nursing's Final Week in Phnom Penh

PROGRAM: UniBreak Groups
PROJECT: University of Newcastle Nursing Placement
WRITTEN BY: Molly Batinic

From the hustle and bustle of the city of Phnom Penh, to the serenity of Siem Reap, and the exquisiteness of the countryside, Cambodia was all we hoped for and more. Between the first day and the last day, we never once lost sight of what we were there to do, to help the beautiful, endearing and deserving children.

Our last full day in Phnom Penh was spent doing more health checks at COLT (Cambodian Organisation for Living and Training). COLT currently houses 22 students and gives them a place to live, eat, learn and interact with others. They teach the children English and computers at the centre, whilst they attend the local schools in the countryside. In less than 3 hours, we managed to see and treat over 100 students around the local community, which was extremely gratifying. Much like PIO and Chibodia, the outcomes from these pop-up health clinics are immense and highly appreciated by all. They have all been remarkable and exceptionally rewarding experiences in which we have all learnt a great deal, not just Nursing-wise, but also about the culture and people in a completely different country to ours. 

As we finished up all of our work at these three clinics, we still had many supplies left over that we wanted to make good use from, so we decided to donate them all. All of our medical supplies were given to the local doctor, Dr. Prak, who helped us out throughout our entire journey. The rest of our supplies, such as children's clothing, head lice treatments and fun games for the kids at the Coconut School. The memories, the experiences, the knowledge, the culture and the everlasting friendships made from this trip will forever remain in our minds and our hearts, and our final dinner summed up all of these aspects.

We spent a wonderful evening at the ‘Spark & Tawandang Microbrewery’ for dinner and a show, with amazing company on our very last night in Phnom Penh. It was the greatest way to end such an extraordinary trip.

Until next time Cambodia … Ah kon and chum reap leah (thank you and goodbye)!