Helen ‘steps’ out to Uganda

The recently qualified pharmacist is hoping to put her skills to good use as part of the STEP (Short Term Experience Placement) programme, which is an initiative of the Church Missionary Society Ireland.
Helen, who is a member of St. Patrick’s Parish Church (Broughshane) said: “I have always had an interest in mission, which grew further when I went to University. During my first year there I went on a Tearfund team to Brazil and that really sparked it off for me.”
She will travel to Uganda in mid-September and return in December. The hospital has 250 beds and a staff of around 300 people. They serve the medical needs of the rural Kiwoko area and treat a range of illnesses, including Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
Talking about her role there, Helen said: “Primarily, I will be volunteering in the pharmacy department and may be doing some teaching as well. Many students come to the hospital to learn and I will perhaps teach them basic things about dispensing and drugs.”
“Experiencing different cultures and using my skills where they can really make a difference is something I have always wanted to do. I am very excited about the whole experience because I have never been to Africa before. I am looking forward to meeting all the people and being part of a different culture”, she added.
Helen also eagerly anticipates seeing God in work in Luweero. She said “The hospital’s motto is: ‘We treat, Jesus heals’ - to see God in action in a mission hospital is going to be really exciting I think.”

She is praying for safety in travel as well as the ability to get to know people and offer effective help to them.

Anyone who would like to support Helen practically is invited to a Cupcake Coffee Morning on Saturday, August 4, in St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, Broughshane, from 10.30am – 12.00pm to support the work CMSI is doing at Kiwoko Hospital.

Children can decorate their own cupcakes and have their face painted.

Says Helen: “Come along and support me – it will be a great morning with plenty of good food and chat for a great cause.”