Needing to put distance between herself and a failed relationship, Sara volunteers for a medical mission in a remote region of Afghanistan. There the young American quickly proves her worth, helping deliver babies, tend sick children, and lance boils. It's grueling work, but also rewarding. Sara feels like she's making a difference.
On a rare day off, the medical team hikes into the mountains for some much-needed rest and recreation-only to stumble onto a battle between American forces and Afghani insurgents. In the chaos, all but Sara die.
Alone and injured in the dry ravines of the Hindu Kush, Sara survives five agonizing days of thirst and pain until a nomadic tribe saves her. Suffering from amnesia resulting from her ordeal, Sara's identity is a mystery, but her medical skills quickly make her a valued member of the small family group.
While tending an insurgent injured after being forced to fight for the Taliban, Sara finds herself developing feelings for her patient-emotions he willingly returns. Their love blossoms, despite the gulf that lies between their worlds.
A stirring tale set in the Afghani conflict, My Afghan Sojourn explores the common bonds and emotions that transcend warring cultures.
About the Author: Born in Pakistan, Conrad J. Castellino was raised in a close Catholic family. He received his bachelor's degree in medicine and surgery from the University of London, as well as his premed certification.
In the 1980s, Castellino moved to the United States and completed his internship at Providence Hospital in Washington, DC. He then completed his residency in internal medicine in New York, where he served as chief resident. He launched an internal medicine practice in California, which has been in operation for the last eighteen years. He has also mentored medical students and acts as a volunteer lecturer to nursing students.
Castellino is married to his college soul mate, Doreen, and together they have two sons. After a near-fatal heart attack, he was told he could never work again, but his life is as productive as ever. He is the author of Even Doctors Have Heart Attacks.
