Gloria Discusses Life and Death, One team member faints(almost) during teaching

September 21, 2016

Gloria Discusses Life & Death, One Team member faints(almost) during teaching

The day started with the promised trip to the sewing room, where the sewing ladies were stunned by my ability to crochet granny squares. Now, this will not surprise those who know me well, or have received an afghan as a gift, but knocking off 5 squares in a short morning anointed me as the new "jefa"(boss) of the crocheting team!  Others crocheted and worked on finishing the throw rugs.  In between stitches we had coffee and conversation; time flew by and soon it was time to head out to meet the team for lunch.  With promises to return early tomorrow, and many kisses,we wished the ladies "Hasta manana".

A much more energetic and upbeat team greeted us at the Community Center .  Phil and Keith proud of having finished most of the painting, the gardeners showing off their newly planted tomatoes, and the teachers engrossed in a hearty (and loud) game of UNO with their students. Lunch and a meeting with Eduardo, and Phil and I were headed back for swimming and siesta.  

Evening teaching was proceeded by a carriage ride with Gloria(our hearty 91 year old volunteer, who hasn't been sick at all).  When I inquired about religion she said emphatically:  "none".  When I asked her if she had been in touch with her nieces. And nephews at home:  "no", "I told them if I die in Cuba, someone will let them know".  Are you scared of dying I inquired?  "No".  Do you know where you are going?  "Well, she said, pointing down then up:  I am going either place, and no worries, I will know a lot of people.  ". She went on to say that she has had a great life, and at her age , she feels lucky to be in Cuba.  Off she strode down the street, to dinner and teaching. 

Initially the evening was going well, until Phil showed up at the little kids table where I was helping Suzann, with that look on his face.  "Susan is down".  Uh Oh.  Pale , dizzy and sweaty she lay on the bed in the back room having grown faint during teaching.  No other symptoms, and refusing to go to the hospital.  After rest, water, and juice, she still had only a blood pressure of 85 systolic sitting up.  Not good.  "No, she said, no hospital".  After a bit, she looked better, we summoned Eduardo with his car, and she is resting comfortably in her hotel room with admonishment to drink water with electrolytes.

Despite the minor bumps in the road, this has been a great team.  I realize that I haven't given due credit to the stamina and upbeat attitude of everyone, but special kudos to our "elders":  Jane and Gloria, who have been stalwart throughout, with high energy and not a single complaint. 

Plans are in the offing for our final two days in Ciego: shopping, celebrations, another trip to La Trova for music and dance, and final goodbyes.

Hoping all of you are healthy and hearty,

With love from Cuba

Barbara

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