Eugene Butkowski

From: Born in Nottingham UK (Robin Hood Country!) and immigrated with family as 10-pound tourists in 1963. Settled in Brisbane. Back in the Natio days I spent three years as a medic and pathology technician.

Current job: I am Clinical Biochemist (and general pathology trained) and currently Chief Medical Scientist at the Albury South West Pathology Service. For the past three years I have been Operations Manager for the Pathology network in South West NSW.

Role in Rwanda: Pathology

What sparked your interest in being involved: At a Hillsong conference in Sydney in 2006, the vision of ‘Hope Rwanda’ was shared. Myself, my daughter and two others volunteered to assist, and my lot fell with the Operation Open Heart team to assist by doing the Pathology. I stayed on to assist with the commencement of the ‘Hope Village’ project in Rwanda, where houses are being built for widows and orphans.

Similar trips you’ve been on: This year will be my fourth trip to Rwanda. I love the team – they are the best bunch of people!

What you remember most from a previous trip: Apart from the real satisfaction of being a team member in Open Heart and all the work, it is a highlight to see children like Gentille (who had heart surgery) come back and give you a hug 12 months later. Another memorable event was nearly going over a cliff in a 4-wheel drive; that adds spice to life.

Passions/interests: I assist as back-up for my daughter who is a contemporary gospel and worship pastor (as well as working with youth). I enjoy a drop of fishing, and life in general!