Health Education in Tonga Successful

Project HOPE volunteer John Hammill reflects on successful work in Tonga:

The Tongan clinic was a huge success. Because we worked with the hospital staff on a daily basis, we have left a more lasting impact on the Tongan healthcare system than we did at any other site. At the close of our clinic I had a very candid and open conversation with the head physician and director of Niu’ui Hospital. He was moved almost to tears as he described his gratitude. In reference to an old proverb he said “You taught us to fish.”

This is what has made this clinic so successful. The medicines and equipment we left behind were nice, but the sustainability of our work will come from the knowledge we exchanged.

The Niu'ui Hospital in Ha'apai Tonga