Those of us whose primary work is surgical are assigned certain days to share in the land base medical mission—which means we check the manifest (listing or who goes on what boat to shore) the evening before, arise at 0530 to get ready, collect our MTEs (the military meals to eat!), get sprayed with DEET, and line up to muster (roll call) before boarding the 30’ boats taking us to shore. This military lingo is an experience in itself!! I was assigned to Citi Soleil, one of 3 land bases, where there is primary medical care, screening for surgical candidates, dental, and optical care. I mostly triaged patients to the proper areas and providers (think we had 7 docs and 2 APNs) with over 500 patients seen. The logistics of this endeavor is mind boggling!! But the people are sooo appreciative---quite heart warming, to say the least!! Although they had tents and fans set up for us, it was pretty hot (heat index at 104!)—but I was more then cooled off on the return trip. There were lots of white caps and huge waves flew over (and INTO) the boat, totally drenching all of us! I looked as if I had water skied back!!
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