To the Waterfall!

The final part of the St.Kates DPT program is a service learning trip. We could choose to stay in the twin cities(exploring homelessness), travel to Mississippi, or go to the DR. I,of course, chose the DR.
 We landed in Santiago yesterday, had orientation to the ILAC compound. ILAC (Institute for Latin  American Concern) which is part of Creighton University. They have a compound in Santiago for students and professionals to stay during service learning or service trips. They provide medical clinics, health promotion, after school assistance and a variety of other services I do not know about(yet). They are trying to have a sustainable impact on the people who need assistance In the DR. 

While here we will take part in this by providing PT education, and interventions to clinics around get city. Our primary focus is education as this will be the biggest thing we can leave behind. I will be working in a school/home for children with severe disabilities. 

Today was a national holiday, so nothing was open. However, we took a trip out into the country to hike to a waterfall our driver got completely lost on the way. We ended up stopping to ask for directions five times!  This proved to an excellent adventure though, as we were able to see a lot of the countryside. When we finally got to the site, it was a two hour hike out. While it was warm(~90F), there was a nice breeze so the hike was enjoyable. It was quite an easy hike, with only minimal hills. However, the views were spectacular. We walked past hanging squash plants, abandoned houses, horses, cows, and then followed the road back up to the mountains. Once at the waterfall, we all jumped into the freezing water. Boy did it feel good! I can't wait to show everyone pictures.

In the drive back, we noticed in one town that there were stands along the road, all of which were selling one thing; a sweet,cinnamon, corn bread. We just had to stop and try! This is apparently only made in this particular town and only during celebrations.

Tomorrow we head out to tour our work sites, and then go for a scavenger hunt through Santiago!