Heidi Steinecker, originally from California, recently completed her Doctorate of Public Health from Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. Heidi came to Bwindi Community Hospital (BCH) as part of her dissertation research on barriers to infection prevention and control in rural hospitals.

Heidi came to know about BCH through a close friend who happened to meet Dr. Scott Kellermann on a plane ride on her way to Uganda. Heidi was familiar with his name but wanted to find out more about the work being done in this remote area of Uganda. She was moved by the issues and great need in this region and was excited to focus her research on this area.

Heidi shares her impression about BCH, “In one of the conference rooms in the hospital, there is a picture of what that area looked like in 2003. To think that through one man, a hospital could change both the lives of the Batwa and the local people, and livelihoods for generations to come, is absolutely stunning. Dr. Scott and his wife’s dedication, sacrifice and utter love has completely transformed this region for the better, and it motivates me to always remember that the ripple effect of one person’s service can absolutely become a tidal wave of positive change in twenty years time. It is because of this experience I want to go back next June with my family, not just as a researcher, but also as someone who can help with infection control alongside my engineer husband who can help with new waterway systems.”

Thank you, Heidi, for choosing BCH as part of your research and heart for building relationships!