Hayden Dando

From: New South Wales.

Current job: Paediatric perfusionist, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

Role in Rwanda: Perfusionist.

What sparked your interest in being involved: I had never been to Africa, and after such troubled times that Rwanda has had, it seemed as if we could go and show them the world does care.

Similar trips you’ve been on: OOH trips to Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda.

What you remember most from a previous trip: The first year we went to Rwanda, the kit we sent was delayed. This did allow us to go and see the gorillas, which was something I had dreamed of doing. Eventually the equipment arrived but not all of it. Three of us spent all night trying to get something together that would work. Then, with what seemed like the entire Rwandan medical staff in theatre, we managed to get the first patient on and off bypass safely.

Passions/interests: I think I am having my mid-life crisis a little early and have discovered the joys of riding motorbikes. I also enjoy technology of many sorts.