Nico and Viola set out to make a difference

Nico Posadinu and Viola Bosinco both work full-time as registered nurses on F Ward (Trauma) at the Horton General Hospital in Banbury.

In March 2019 they each used two weeks of their annual leave to volunteer through Camps International's Healthcare Outreach Programme in Kenya.

Many people in rural Kenya are living below the poverty line, and access to proper healthcare is often limited or non-existent.

Nico and Viola chose to spend their time in rural villages close to Mombasa, helping to deliver essential medical care.

They ran free community clinics and offered consultations, treatment, medication and testing for a whole range of conditions such as malaria and HIV.

The team of international volunteers was divided into small groups with local medical professionals and translators, giving them the opportunity to discuss and share knowledge about the diseases and problems facing the local community. 

These include jiggers (a type of parasitic insect), conditions such as ringworm, and a lack of health education leading to many children suffering from malnutrition.

"It was frustrating not to have all of the equipment and drugs we needed," says Viola, "and we quickly realised how many things we take for granted at home, how lucky we are."

Viola was inspired to take part in the trip by her mother, who is a doctor.

"We always wished to have this experience. As well as the medical clinics, we also had a chance to relax, enjoy the beaches and book adventures, like a safari, on our rest days.

"It was an amazing trip, with beautiful people who became friends. We will remember their smiles and hospitality, and the beauty of Kenya."

Nico and Viola are grateful for all the support from family, friends, colleagues and patients who made their trip possible, in particular their Administrative Assistant Nicola Woodhouse and Ward Manager Louise Garrett.

One of the wishes of Camps International is to 'spread the word' and entice more people to volunteer. If you would like to find out more, please visit:

https://campsinternational.com/product/gap-healthcare-volunteering