Mu Sigma Phi Sorority, Inc.

By Gillian Abello '11

It is often the simple, common activities in life that we take for granted. Sometimes, we do not realize the importance of these things even when we lose the ability to do them. Only then do we realize the value of our actions when we regain our power.

In light of the disaster caused by the typhoon Ondoy, the Mu Health Caravan extended its arm to the 135 families (619 people total) temporarily staying at the smaller Ultra gymnasium at the Department of Education compound in Pasig on the morning of October 18, 2009, a Sunday. The health lectures were preceded by an energizing demonstration of the 9 joint exercises, danced to the tune of the popular Korean pop song “Nobody.” Lectures on the diseases dengue fever and leptospirosis were given by sisses Via Alip and Ria Verdolaga, followed by a video of the proper handwashing technique. The lecture on how to make proper food choices was given by Dr. Cynthia Cuayo-Juico. Dr. Annette Poblete’s group then conducted a breastfeeding small group discussion for lactating mothers. Also present at the event were Drs. Marilyn Ruaro, Lilibeth Genuino, Chee Garcia, Joie Cañal and undergraduates Shelly Castillo, Gladdy Facun, Gillian Abello and Joyce Tan.

Concluding the half-day session was the giving away of a nail cutter and a bar of soap to each family. Compared to the packs of groceries these families were being given over the past few days, these were small and ordinary things, and yet we felt the people’s appreciation for these items. After receiving them, the place quieted down; everyone went to their respective spots in the gymnasium and only the clicking sound of nail cutters were heard as people started to cut their nails. These people have not had a proper nail trimming since they were displaced from their houses. The scene was oddly the best and most heartwarming thanks we could have ever received.

It is often the simple, common activities in life that we take for granted—for instance the importance of cutting one’s nails. Likewise, sometimes we do not see how essential teaching is and this makes it almost like losing a capability. Seeing the people respond to our activities is like regaining power, reinforcing the caravan’s value. Indeed, the art of medicine lies not only in diagnosing and treating our patients but also in imparting knowledge to them.