Battling through the strength of the level four rapids with a hardworking team and trustworthy guide, it was an amazing experience. However, during our routine paddle high-fives where we clashed our paddles together in a resemblance of a hand high-five, one of my boat mates missed and instead hit my thumb, right on the bone. Too swollen to paddle afterwards I was unable to row and was given a wrist brace and whisked away to the hospital.

Although, low-spirited at first I soon became intrigued by the hospital and found myself in wonder at what I noticed. From the administrative paper work I had to fill out to the technology used, everything was very different in comparison to a Canadian hospital. I walked to 4 different buildings and waited a long time just to get my work done. Also, at the end of my visit, I had to pay for each and every individual service I used. Old typewriters were used to type, the X-ray room did not have the most up-to-date technology and all walk-in patients regardless of their medical issue were to all be seen by the one doctor on-duty before leaving. The system was disorganized, crowded, inefficient and slow in comparison to the Canadian health care system.

I found myself in awe at the difference and I came to the realization that the free Canadian health care system offered uniquely in Canada should not be taken for granted. I felt this showed how we as Canadian citizens are presented with more opportunities as opposed to the developing countries. It’s fascinating how a once in a lifetime opportunity also lead me to make a realization and gave me more respect and consideration of being a Canadian citizen.

- Amrit in Mississauga

Editor’s Note:  The five recipients of this year’s Seva Fellowship, a program for young aspiring leaders in the Peel Region of Ontario, each wrote a story as part of the fellowship program.  Their contributions are grouped together here.