My trips to India have been an invaluable experience both spiritually and professionally. I was able to practice nursing for the first time in a truly holistic manner - a goal so often unachievable in Australia's modern hospitals. A touch, a smile, a hug or a prayer meant so much to the people of Kandili and the surrounding villages that even at the end of long day, (sometimes seeing in excess of 180 patients), we were often moved to take "just a few more"

As nurses we are often compartmentalized into certain roles; surgical, critical care, midwifery, managers, researchers etc. A trip like this makes you tear down your preconceptions of what it means to be a nurse. After working in a third world country, work in Australia will never be the same.

I learnt new skills and was forced to work outside of my comfort zone. This was challenging but immensely rewarding at the same time! The time spent in rural medical missions will give you new found friendships and lifelong memories.

Those who serve with Cosmos will never go just once, but upon return will be planning for the next trip. (And sometimes the next?.) Myself? I can?t wait!