All set to the Netherlands

Today I'm flying to the Netherlands to present our A(H1N1) paper at the Leiden International Medical Students Conference (LIMSC). My flight is at 8pm, I'll have a two-hour stop-over at Hong Kong, and I should be in Amsterdam by 6am tomorrow.

This is my first trip to Europe (and abroad), and I'm excited. I know the Dutch are the tallest people in the world, so I have a feeling I'll look like a midget there—I am, after all, small even for Filipino standards.

The organizers have informed me that I am the sole representative of the country. I don't pressure myself unnecessarily. If they ask me hard questions after the presentation, I'll just say, "Mabuhay kayong lahat," and flash them the Pilipinas Kay Ganda smile.

I've finished packing my conference clothes that should last me for four days, and I'm all set to go.





Before I leave, I'd like to thank the UP College of Medicine, especially Dean Alberto Roxas, and the UPMASA, especially Drs. Ofelia Bernabe and Fe Lacbawan (Baltimore-Washington Chapter), for graciously agreeing to sponsor this trip.

Please pray that God grant me safety, direction, and an awfully great time in Europe.

Here's a photo of the great Manila sunset to remind me of home.