1st October 2007 was a significant day for me. The driver from the Daughters of Charity, Chann Sophal, fetched me at 6.00 am and we proceeded to The Takeo Eye Hospital (TEH). The car journey from Phnom Penh to TEH was one and a half hours. I had to hold on to my car seat tightly as the trip was bumpy.
Despite the bumpy ride, I was looking forward to meeting my students. Upon arrival I was introduced by Mr Bonn, the administrator of TEH to some of the staff who would be attending the English lessons. The staff was happy to see me.
I had my first lesson from 5.00 - 6.00 pm. There were 8 students, 6 trainee nurses, a receptionist and a security guard. Mondays are usually busy days with many patients. The students were tired but in good spirit. The students introduced themselves and expressed that learning English would help them in many ways. They could go for further training locally or overseas and to communicate with foreigners.
On 2nd October, Tuesday morning lesson was from 6.00 - 7.00. Only one student came at 6.00 and the rest came at 6.20. After discussing with the students, the lesson time was adjusted to 6.15 - 7.15 am. The students and I were delighted that we would not need to get up so early.
I shared a story in print – Bath-Time. The students could relate their own experiences of being naughty and chased by their parents which drew laughter from the class. They had a good laugh and enjoyed the lesson. Nurse Chrek Vannak said, "I will always remember today's lesson."
October is the raining season. Takeo is prone to flood and blackouts. One morning the flooding was so bad that only two students, Meas Ratha and Mienh Davy turned up for class. Thus, we had more time for sharing. They shared their struggles, having to work from Mondays to Fridays and studying full-time on weekends too. They have hardly any time for personal life.
Blackouts are quite often, we had two lessons under the light of the mobile phones. The students took this in their stride. For me, this is truly a new experience. On one occasion, we had to cancel the class because of total blackout. The students looked disappointed that there was no lesson.
Some of the students were unable to attend both morning and evening lessons due to 'on-call' duties after office hours. Once, Nurse Ngeth Sarun came in his nursing gown as he did not want to be late for class. Despite, their heavy work load, studies, and family commitments they continue to attend the lessons. I felt encouraged by their enthusiasm.
Some of he Hospital Staff attending the English lesson
Theresa having lunch with some of her students at the restaurant within the Takeo Eye Hospital ground
Between the lessons, I volunteered my help at the Registration Office. It has been a pleasant experience for me too.
Tim Narvy, the receptionist with Theresa at the Registration Office
Patients waiting for treatment
Warded Patients along the corridor due to overcrowding
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