Jul 21 - Aug 2
1) After just over a year of preparation, I am finally here in the UK - wide-eyed and ready to begin my training as a Foundation Year 1 doctor. The last few days in Malaysia were quite stressful, as I had so much to pack and so little time to say goodbye to everyone. In hindsight, I really underestimated the work that is required in order to relocate to another country. To everyone whom I did not manage to meet up with, I do apologise but will try my best to do so when I return for holiday.
2) The flight to the UK was relatively smooth. I boarded Etihad Airlines (which had a stop over at Abu Dhabi) and even bumped into my good friend Mariss who was on the same flight! It was really a pleasant surprise as I thought I would be the last person to leave for UK, given that all my other friends had arrived already. On arrival, I found no indications of a heatwave - the temperature was a balmy 15°C and it rained for the next two days. Luckily I had an umbrella with me then...
3) The next couple of days, I had to sort out my bank account and British Residence Permit (BRP). Unfortunately, while I had my Lloyds card, I had forgotten my password and had to reset everything and order a new card. It also meant that I could not update my phone number and address, as I needed a valid BRP to do so. And when I went to the post-office (in Wolstanton) to collect my BRP, the staff told me there was a delay and asked me to come back next week. Obviously I wasn't too happy to hear that.
4) Bank and ID problems aside, everything else has been relatively smooth sailing. I love my new accommodation - a 15-minute walk away from the hospital (Royal Stoke University Hospital). Last week, we had an induction for all new incoming junior doctors, followed by three days of shadowing in the wards. I'm starting off in gastroenterology, followed by trauma & orthopaedic surgery, and then emergency medicine. It definitely takes some getting used to, as the hospital uses a lot of electronic systems that I am unfamiliar with, but I suppose that explains the need for an induction and shadowing period.
5) I've taken loads of pictures along the way, so just click the link below and scroll down if you're interested. Thanks very much for visiting my blog as always, and have a great week ahead. Take care and stay safe, cheers!
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