I can’t believe I’ll be leaving this Saturday. I’ve had an incredible time here, but I’m also excited to go home and see my family again.
Last week was pretty uneventful. I’ve been working on my final project for mechanical thrombectomies for ischemic strokes. The final product is going to be a little different from other students’. Since I ended up deciding on a project so late, I’ve had a lot of catching up to do. The most difficult part is getting in contact with neurosurgeons who perform this procedure. Dr. Bogantes has been trying to set up an interview with a few, but they’re incredibly (and understandably) busy. I also reached out to two doctors in the US but haven’t heard back from them either. Prof. Howard was actually able to coordinate and interview with one of her colleagues that performs thrombectomies, and I had a really interesting conversation with him. Unfortunately he doesn’t work in neurology, mostly large vessels like pulmonary or limbs, so he couldn’t give me much insight into my specific topic. He might be able to connect me with some neurosurgeons who do have experience, which would be incredible! It definitely won’t be in time for my presentation on Thursday, but since I’m considering working on this project during the school year as well, it’ll still be important to talk to them.
We didn’t travel this weekend, and I’m glad to stay at home and relax. On Friday Alex, Apple, and I went to Chinatown for lunch with two Tico friends from the Bootcamp/Workshop! Apple and I were excited to show them some good, authentic, and spicy Chinese food.
Chinatown with Ricardo and Emilio!
On Saturday, I got my first professional tattoo done at Stattoos Los Yoses! (I was inspired by Prof. Howard’s friend who gets a tattoo done in each country they visit.) My tattoo artist did an incredible job and it turned out even better than I imagined. I got a pizote in commemoration of my first trip to San Carlos, when we saw a pizote in the national park. I really appreciate Apple coming with me and watching the Hungarian F1 Qualifiers during the session :]
1.5 hours later and a new little friend! (His name is Carlos Sainz IV)
Amazing work done by Kenny Reds at Stattoos Los Yoses.
And then later that night, we went to see the F1 movie again! This time with the whole gang since it’ll be the last time we experience $6 theatre tickets and dulce popcorn.
F1 movie at Nova Cinemas pt II
I have 5 full days left in Costa Rica, and I’ll try to enjoy it to the fullest. I’m excited to see more Tico friends this week and eat incredible food. See you back in the US!