“In this photo you will see an image painting on the wall at the children’s hospital. Throughout the hospital there are many different art pieces that allow the place to feel more peaceful and welcoming.
The message is very meaningful to any individual residing in the hospital. It serves as a reminder that even when they are away from family members during their stay they are still loved and cared for.
This image brings me joy and love.”
~Eleese Anthony, UAB OTS
The Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital opened in late 2016 as a result of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Trust mandate to raise 1 billion rand to build a 200-bed specialist pediatric hospital providing tertiary care to children living in Southern Africa.
“I am an occupational therapist, a UAB OT Alumni (Class of 2014), and an upcoming health services researcher standing next to some art in a Rehabilitation Unit. It’s a rare opportunity and experience to see art that connects so well with who I am and represent. This piece makes me feel joyful!”
~Edward Murrell, MS, OTR/L
On the first full day, the OT Abroad group visited a Johannesburg children’s hospital. They saw a GE HealthCare banner where they promote moving towards health care without limits.
“Promoting health care for everyone without any limits is powerful because a large percentage of the population in South Africa don’t have access to health care treatment. I was feeling heartbroken that health care has to be an issue everywhere in the world, but motivated to continue working with other professionals towards healthcare for everyone without it having any limits!”
~Caitlyn Caffee, UAB OTS
UAB’s largest study abroad group to date — 22 students, two parents, and six faculty — prepares to leave Birmingham for their 15-hour flight to Johannesburg, where they’ll begin their two-week journey through South Africa.
Continue reading “The Journey Begins”
The UAB OT Study Abroad program is in South Africa from April 24 through May 7, 2023, and experience that has been just over three years in the making.
Continue reading “Itinerary: South Africa”
Nelson Mandela, the legendary anti-apartheid activist and former president of South Africa, was imprisoned on Robben Island for 18 of the 27 years of his incarceration by the apartheid government of South Africa. This spot was used to isolate people – from lepers to prisoners – for more than 200 years. It served as South Africa’s maximum security prison until 1991.
Continue reading “Itinerary: Robben Island”