10/01/2019
Dear UCESCO Friends, Partners and well wishers,
My Name is Dr. Donjetë Parashtica (Doctor of Dentistry) from Kosovo.
When I decided to volunteer in Kenya, I did not know where I was properly going caused by the lack of information, I had about Africa generally. Also, I did not know exactly why I was going there. I must admit that my parents insisted to make this happen since they said that this experience might happen only once in your life.
Preparation to this trip was not easy at all since I faced some obstacles. First of all, applying for VISA and receiving it was one of the hardest thing to do (because Kenya does not recognize Kosovo as an independent country), it also took a lot of time to be done. Secondly, judgement is one factor of individuals coming by the community around.
Although after anything that happened, my desire to come to volunteer as a dentist in Kenya-Nairobi was one of the most interesting, thrilling and exciting experiences of my life. What I found out about it afterwards was out of my expectations and people turned out to be very polite and friendly. Therefore, food was delicious in general, but nature seemed to be exotic.
The main reason why I participated was being a dentist volunteer in Kibera’s slum. During the stay in Nairobi, an idea emerged from me and my friend to visit the community in Samburu. The 3-days journey was followed by UCESCO Staff (Kingsley and driver) and a local host named Paul Lapartam, which guided our trip altogether. He showed us around and shared information about their lifestyle, traditions and culture. What I found there left me speechless because of the lack of hygiene and elementary stuff of living. People live with animals in a room together, and what is more important I did not find any hospital where people could go to get treatment whenever they need to, especially for dental problems. Another issue that I faced was the majority of 35 years old and older individuals having problems with their teeth (missing teeth) since there were no institutions where they could go and get treated positively and effectively.
I appeal for a better, eligible and responsible establishment such as dental and medical staff which educate and give services (treatments) needed for the community.
I am thankful if this request is taken into consideration and we can help as much as we can offer for this community to live in a better lifestyle.
As Mother Teresa said, “Charity is not about pity, it is about love”.
Sincerely,
Dr. Donjetë Parashtica
(Doctor of Dentistry)
E-mail [email protected]
Mob: +38349435804 / Gjilan, Kosovo 60000