Building a Clinic in Africa, Tales of Beans, Bats, and a Dream

Escape to the vibrant landscapes of a remote rural village in West Africa's Ivory Coast, where the mystical génies intertwine with everyday life. In this vividly portrayed village, modern amenities are scarce, and survival depends on gathering wood, fetching water from wells, and tending to fields with nothing more than a trusty machete. Imagine mothers, and babies strapped to their backs, toiling under the sweltering sun, as they strive to nourish their families and overcome the challenges that arise. Amidst this enchanting yet demanding environment, join me on an extraordinary life-altering journey. At 56, after raising two sons as a divorced mother, caring for my loving, larger-than-life parents, and leaving behind a comfortable job at Goldman Sachs in Chicago, I answered the Peace Corps call to serve in this humble village. For 17 months, I embraced the rhythm of a different land, until political turbulence forced our evacuation in the midst of an attempted coup. Beneath the overarching ambition of fulfilling the dream of the village Chief, I delve into the intricate tapestry of this unique place while striving to adapt to the climate and appreciate the unfamiliar local cuisine despite my rebellious stomach. I learn to understand the intricacies of its colorful culture and the remarkable characters that inhabit it and witness firsthand the clash of tradition and progress as I embark on a quest to bring desired healthcare to the village. This captivating memoir invites you to immerse yourself in a world where personal transformation, determination in the face of betrayal, resilience, and the pursuit of purpose intertwine with the rhythm of a community on the edge of change.