Pang'ono pang'ono

The last 2 weeks have been uncharacteristically slow in the clinic.  The overall patient load is down and the number testing positive for HIV is way down (eligibility criteria for my study).  We haven't enrolled anyone in 8 days because no one has been eligible.  Considering my target enrollment is 10 per week, this is concerning.  I can tell everyone is a little demoralized, and various explanations have been offered.  One counselor suggested the global economic downturn is to blame, since people are worried about their money they want to save it rather than going out and having fun (and sex).  Thus, less risky behavior leads to fewer sexually transmitted infections and fewer patients visiting our clinic.  However, don't worry, they tell me, the tobacco auctions are coming up and people will have more money and we'll see many clients in the waiting room.

It can be hard to stay positive, but I just have to remind myself: little by little, pang'ono pang'ono.