Hey guys,
This is going to be another quick update - so sorry for the long delay again!
My grandpa's cousin who was staying with us passed away about 2 weeks ago. He was in the ICCU for low BP after being on bed rest from hip surgery...then they did an EKG 2 days after his admission (for fun) and saw that he had a heart attack previously...and then it was all downhill from there - had another MI, couldn't get his BP up, got an infection in his lungs. It was definitely an experience seeing the patient side of things in the health care system in India. They don't explain anything and make all choices seem black and white - either you can intubate him or leave his fate to God. Most everyone won't answer any questions you ask or even tell you what's going on - the doctor that explained exactly what was happening to my family (which happened to be exactly what I told them was going on) only did so after we told them we wanted to transfer to another hospital!
Anyways, the Hindu rituals that were performed after his death were also very interesting to witness. A lot of the things people used to believe in and do in the olden days are gone, yet some traditions remain - some crazier than others! There are 13 days of mourning during which the family stays together...it was really amazing to see the family come together and support each other. We went to my uncle's house every night - all had dinner together, then there was a prayer service (bhajans) every night. So needless to say I've been busy with family related stuff the last couple of weeks, but it was an insightful experience to get to take part in.
We are on Diwali vacation now at Manav Sadha for the next 2 weeks, so lots of hanging out and relaxing! Went to the Ram Rahim tekro a few days ago - they have started construction on the community center there...this construction was the main reason they put me on that project to help with questions and communication with the donors as this gets started. The projected opening date for the center is next June - I hope it all happens on time and I'm here to see it!
Other than that - before Dad left he threw me a surprise super early birthday party :) - pictures here.
Since I'm on vacation probably won't have much to report, but would love to get an email from you guys to hear what you guys are up to! I miss the states!!!
