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Praying Hands

One of the most memorable times of my visit to Senegal was the day I spent in the traditional healer's compound in Fatick. Located approximately 30 kilometers from Dakar, Fatick is a gathering place for more than 200 healers who are from various parts of Senegal and who work in this compound. Patients who visit Fatick undergo a rigorous intake process in which urine and blood samples are taken to validate the efficiency of the healers' interventions. The healers use a variety of divination methods to arrive at a diagnosis and the treatment regimen includes herbs, ritual, and sometimes sacrifice.

I spent a good portion of the afternoon sitting under a baobob tree with the healers. I had never before experienced such powerful yet calming energy. As the moment of our departure drew near, the president of the Traditional Healers Association stood up to speak. He thanked us for our visit and shook hands with our tour leader, Dr. Finch. Then, looking regal in his blue tunic, he reached into the pouch of his garment and pulled out his prayer beads. He held them in a familiar, respectful manner, with each movement of his fingers signifying the release of a prayer.