It is Mama Gayle. Alex and I went to Selian Hospital today to do orthopedic surgeries and visit all our postop patients. Our first case was very difficult and had to make some adjustments in the equipment we needed but it went well. Alex has taught these new ortho surgeons and registrars so much this week. It was fun to watch them grow with confidence as they preformed the surgeries. All the patients were doing well postoperatively, so we praise God for that.
I ended up referrring 120 patients, with 47 of them requiring surgeries. Two of the patients were admitted to ICU with cardiac issues, but after tests and given medications they are stable and doing well. They were very sick patients and the one patient would not have survived if he had not attended my outreach clinic. I transferred one patient to get fitted for a brace and one child is being referred to Dar to a cardiologist. I praise God for sending those who were in need.
We had one child that is 6 years old and had had rheumatic fever as a child and presented with heart problems. She is also blind in one eye and does not hear well. After many tests it was determined that this child needs to be referred to a cardiologist in Dar. The child has been stabalized on medication and I made the necessary arrangement to send her to Dar. Please say some special prayers for this child.
Another patient has severe curvature of the back, that we determined is inoperable. We did tests to determine the condition of his heart and lungs and they were good. I referred him to be fitted for a brace that will provide him comfort and hopefully increase his lung capacity. He was the sweetest young man and kept thanking me for all we did for him. He will return every 3 months to check the fitting of the brace and his condition. I just want him to be as comfortable as possible.
When my teams come to Selian and I transfer a lot of patients to them, they have to work long days and are very busy. I filled all the beds in the hospital. I went to the accountant today to see what my total bill was for these patients and it is very high and I will wire the funds to pay when I return home. Thanks to all the donors who support Hope Ministries, because this would not be possible without you. Many of these peoples lives have been changed forever. I praise God for this! I have relied on HIS support and guidance as we made decisions on what to do for thee patients. I love it that we pray with the patients before we start each surgery.
To thank the staff I brought the head of the theatre some roses and cookies for all the staff. They were so excited because they do not get many sweets. Such a small token for all they have done to help me.
Alex and I were invited out for Selian by the Hospital Administrator. There were doctors who we had been working with and administrative people. What a fun evening. We brainstormed on things for the future and shared many stories and laughed a lot. So grateful for this evening.
The nurses were out on safari today and went to Ngorongoro Crater and got to see many amazing animals. Then they had a coffee tour where they got to see how coffee is made and how stingless bees make honey. Here are some of the pictures they sent me.
