By Palms participant Annie Anthony
When I first arrived at Cebu airport, I was warmly greeted by the Filipino team, who were just as excited to finally meet me in person, after months of phone calls and email exchanges. Their enthusiasm immediately made me feel welcomed and set a positive tone for the journey ahead.
The following day, we travelled two hours south to Patapat in Barili province. As we approached the village, I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. The community had gathered to greet me, and as I walked in, I was deeply moved to see a large sign that read “Welcome Annie!” Inside, cakes had been prepared in my honor—a simple yet heart-warming gesture that made me feel instantly at home.
The accommodation provided was a renovated house, equipped with a kitchen and toilet. However, the realities of rural living quickly became apparent. The heat and humidity were intense, the toilet system was non-flushing, and water was only available at certain times of the day. These challenges were a reminder of the daily resilience required in the community.
Despite these difficulties, the people of Patapat stood out most vividly. They were kind, friendly, and endlessly helpful. As I tried to learn Visayan, they practiced their English, leading to many shared laughs and joyful cultural exchanges. In those moments of mutual learning and storytelling, I felt a genuine bond forming—one built on respect, curiosity, and the warmth of human connection.
As I settle into this new chapter, I look forward to opening a clinic in Patapat and serving the seven surrounding communities with healthcare—working together to promote wellness, vitality, and hope for the future.