The Hurdles of a Young Doctor in a War-Torn Country the Democratic Republic of the Congo

From 1964 to 2004, the Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced more than four rebellions. Pierre is born right after the first one and is raised by a financially secure family that ends up in poverty after many years of mismanagement of his country, the Democratic Republic of Congo, by the President Mobutu's government. Yet, Pierre's parents encourage him to continue his education. Returning home from the Kisangani Medical School, the 47-day trip back to his home province Kivu is heartbreaking. The truck that carries him back takes on a slow pace because the highway is muddy due to a long rainy season, and the government has stopped the maintenance of national roads because of the public treasury bankruptcy. Becoming the first physician in Northern Idjwi Island, he faces the threat of armed militia, invaders from Rwanda-Uganda and the governmental army, all whom bring hurdles to his medical profession and his life. This is Pierre's journey and the story of many Congolese physicians, working to help people and save lives in an insecure environment in their country. After leaving his home country for safety, Pierre resides in Malden, Massachusetts where he is pursuing his Master's degree.