Clinic Day 8

Outdoor view of clinic

Indoor view of clinic

Military choosing their sunglasses

Military Band playing at the closing ceremony

Conga line

As promised, here is an entry for Clinic Day 8, Thurs 25th. Today was our 8th and last day of clinic. We arrived early, expecting to close early after seeing 1000 recipients. We were amazed by the end of the day to discover that we saw 2061! We began shutting down the clinic, which included packing up the equipment and taking inventory on glasses. Everyone worked diligently and swiftly. Immediately after, the Lions Club of Piribebuy began setting up what would become a fantastic ceremony in our honor. The military band was there, we had dancers and a string band. The dancers performed traditional folk dances, which were really exciting to see. Afterwards we all flooded the dance floor ourselves, culminating in the longest conga line I have ever seen. We were joined by the volunteers, the Lions and some of their family. It was a bonding experience with the people of Piribebuy.

Olga, from our hotel--and Lions Club member--brought Hors d'oeuvres for a closed ceremony--celebrating the local volunteers--where we give them gifts for all their efforts. Traditionally, we give them OneSight T-shirts and pins. In addition, each member of the Clinic Team brings items from their respective home towns. The gifts covered over 4 tables. We had them line up and circle the tables, collecting one item at a time until all the gifts were taken. It was fun and rewarding to watch their excitement.