To gain manhood, to risk life

This past week, the eighth known Eastern Cape Xhosa initiate passed away due to complications from ritual circumcision. The circumcision rituals, known as Ulwaluko, are traditional within the Xhosa culture (and many other African cultures). The ceremonies signify the passage from boy to manhood.

Same Wolf, Different Coat

Latest news regarding Eastern Cape Health regards the MEC of the department discovering a separate entrance for HIV-positive patients at the Sundays River Valley Hospital yesterday. Enraged, he ordered it to be locked and never opened again.

Birthday-thoughts

 Day 5: What do you prefer to do on your birthday? Birthdays are big in our family – as are Mothersdays, Fathersdays, and holidays like Christmas and Easter. We have learnt how fragile life is, even the youngest of us. In my Grade 12-year we lost so many family  members and friends that I seemed

My Day in Obstetrics: Catching babies… or watching, at least

Before being allowed to commence the clinical rotations of our third year, my class has to witness three NVDs (normal vaginal deliveries). Today I went to a provincial hospital in the Eastern Cape for mine. The Eastern Cape is notorious for its poor administration, but medical students love working or shadowing here as it offers