Emily Hall's (PL3) Dreams Take Flight Again in Tanzania

Posted on behalf of Emily Hall (PL3)

If you had asked me 20 years ago what my life would look like if I were to become a doctor--flying into remote areas of Africa and providing medical care to those in need would have been on my short list of career ambitions. Decades later a dinner conversation and some networking led to the opportunity of a lifetime. 

I was invited by the Flying Medical Service (a NGO based in Arusha, Tanzania) to fill a last minute need to see patients in rural Tanzania. A pilot, a pilot in training, a local chief medical officer, and I traveled for two days landing in remote areas to see patients and provide medical care. Much of my role was to complete prenatal assessments and serve as a pharmacist of sorts--counting pills and dispensing medication. It wasn't pediatrics per say, but I was eager to be involved and willing to help in any capacity. Despite no formal plans to see pediatric patients there always seemed to be a sick child (or many) in each location inviting me to jump into a more familiar role.

We landed in various regions of the country and I felt literally "dropped" into the Maasai culture. The beauty of the villages and people mesmerized me. Their dress and way of life is so contrasting to anything I'd witnessed before. It was such a privilege to be immersed into the culture in this way. They believe pictures capture and take away their soul; so out of respect, I did not photograph any people during my visits. However, the images of the experience are imprinted in my memory. I apologize my writing ability cannot portray the pictures recollected in my mind--you'll just have to trust me: it was incredible.

Aerial view of a Maasai village as we fly low alerting inhabitants that clinic will soon begin

Returning from this experience I couldn't contain my enthusiasm. Bush flying had proved to be all that my childhood dreams had imagined. It provided an element of danger, fulfilled the desire to do good work, and allowed me to be surrounded by like-minded people. A few weeks later I found myself discussing the opportunity with a midwife at the hospital over tea. She herself has lived quite an adventurous lifestyle, which is reflective in her career endeavors, and I was eager to hear her perspective of medical humanitarian aid. 

I left the conversation identifying with her ambitions and taking away a new understanding of why some people are drawn to global health. In a career field so formulaic -- blended with my personality that is anything but -- I crave to connect with people to have alternative medical perspectives. The global health community embodies this notion. People who have sought and created an alternative career path surround me here and being in Tanzania has allowed me to learn from many who have found their way in medicine despite not conforming to a linear trajectory. 

On reflection, I realized the rigors of medical school and residency had quickly quieted my childish idealism. The perceived ability to make a change in the world and the naïve enthusiasm that surrounds such big dreams was a feeling I had nearly forgotten. Returning to Africa has been oddly rejuvenating and in some ways has given me permission to again have lofty and alternative career goals. So again, I find myself making a list of career ambitions. This time, becoming a Bush Pilot/Physician in Africa probably won't make the shortlist but I'll credit the experience with making me a bit more prepared for whatever opportunity comes next. 

Emily beside the Foreign Medical Service plane