January 4^th of 2016 Dlo Geri split into two teams: one team, comprised of Nimah, Evan, and Shivangi, joined Frank, the team’s hydrogeologist, to test the three wells at the hospital site. Frank brought a 15 gallon per minute pump to test the yield of the wells, as well as sample bottles to test the water quality. The day was a success. The team was able to test 2 of the 3 wells, and they seemed to be producing a good yield that indicates an adequate water supply for the current demand for the hospital. Dr. Maklin has plans to expand the hospital to a final capacity of 200 beds, but will start by building a 60 bed facility. The team was joined by a few members of the local community that were eager to learn more about the system. They worked very hard, and caught on quickly to the technologies we were using. It was reassuring to see community members engaged early on in the process, as it sets a foundation for a sustainable project. 

Conducting flow rate tests at one of the wells.

Team two, comprised of Jessica, Nicole (myself), Francesca, and AJ, went into the community to survey locals. Francesca was able to sit down with a few community members and administer surveys, which gave her an opportunity to better understand the community structure, as well as the needs of the community. Furthermore, we were able to drive around and see how terrible the road conditions are. To drive 2 miles took more than 10 minutes – this just further proves how much Dr. Maklin’s hospital will help to improve lives. It will take much less time for these community members to seek medical attention. Driving around the community, we were also able to see just how much Dr. Maklin has done – he has installed over 70 wells, reducing the time it takes for locals to get water on average from 5 hours to just over 30 minutes. The community really loves and respects Dr. Maklin. We also had an opportunity to visit one of his clinics, of which he has 5, to see where he currently takes care of most of his patients. The facility is small, but offers a lot. The hospital will give him a much better opportunity to take care of much more patients. The evening concluded with a delicious meal prepared by the Brothers

Jessica pumping water from one of Dr. Maklin's community wells!

Francesca (center) administering surveys to community members.

Dr. Maklin's clinic (on right)

- Nicole