Christine's Impactful Approach to Oral Health
In today's world, the quest for change often begins with a personal mission to make a difference. Meet Christine, a passionate student of Oral Health who entered college with more than just earning a degree in mind. From the outset of her studies, she envisioned a broader impact. "I've been thinking a lot about being the change I want to see in the world," she shares. Her goal is to educate and empower her community in West Pokot about oral hygiene.
Christine firmly believes that prevention is key in oral health. "There's a lot more to oral health than tooth extraction," she emphasizes. With this in mind, the GLOW scholar instills a culture of preventive care, starting with educating children and teenagers.
Christine, GLOW scholar, attending to her patient.
Her oral health project began with a focused effort on a group of 30 children and teenagers in her village. "I started with a small group of kids and teenagers," she explains, "because I realized that many adults lack basic knowledge about oral hygiene."
Christine posing with the children after a training.
Her approach is straightforward yet impactful. She plans interactive sessions where participants learn essential oral hygiene techniques: proper brushing methods, selecting the right toothbrush, effective flossing techniques, and understanding when to visit a dentist. These sessions are hands-on, using materials like toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, and disclosing tablets.
By equipping them with essential tools and knowledge now, Christine aims to create a ripple effect of healthier habits and improved self-esteem. "I believe these kids will grow up with the confidence to prioritize their oral hygiene," she says optimistically.
Christine provides each participant with their own set of oral hygiene tools to continue practicing what they learn. She plans to conduct follow-up sessions to monitor progress and ensure sustained success.
Looking forward, she envisions scaling her efforts to include all schools in West Pokot, not just her village. "I intend to expand oral health education throughout the entire region," she explains. Her dream is to see communities where oral health knowledge is widespread, leading to improved overall health and well-being.
She exemplifies the power of education and proactive community engagement in creating lasting change. Through her dedication and vision, she is not only transforming smiles but also paving the way for a healthier, more informed future in West Pokot. Christine's story reminds us that each of us has the power to be the change we wish to see in our communities. With passion, determination, and education, we can build healthier, brighter futures for generations to come.