Day Trip to Cape Town

I went to visit iThemba labs in Cape Town as we have done work for them in the past (we did laser welding of their cyclotron targets they use to produce radio isotopes) and there is a chance of other applications that we might be able to help them with.

Although that meant missing our holiday party yesterday I thought it was worth it as we can always use more business! So I got my ticket and in the process was taking some other finished work down to another client of ours in which we did some test hole dirlling on plastic bags. It turned out to be a good thing (on many levels)!

Got into OR Tambo Airport (in Joburg) without much hassle it is actually rather easy to get in and out of compared to O'hare and other places I have been. Made it through security and was waiting in line when I realized I left my cell phone in the car. Although I had the time I did not want to go back ... a bit lazy and not fully functional at 6am!

Got on the plane and was doing some work when I realized that I did not have my driver's license or a credit card (both of which are requried for my car rental). I figured then I would ask this stranger that I was delivering these bags to if he would not mind giving me a ride. Just hoping he would be there and did not call me to say he would be late or something!

Got off the plane in Cape Town and went to the meeting spot and lucky for me the guy was there! I asked and he had no problem taking me...that was a close call....

Made it to iThemba and my colleauges that had made the trip too but for other work had been calling me and were ready to make up a presentation on my behalf....well things went well in the presentation and insuing discussions. It was great to see all the work they had been doing since actually the mid 60's! In 1989 they had started radio therapy and have been doing proton therapy for quite some time, it is impressive in terms of all the people's lives they have saved!

Afterwards my co-workers drove me back to the airport and I was on my way home! Long day but it was great and now I want to get back to the Cape for once with some time.....soon enough I imagine!