Friday, January 9th
Today the team traveled to Naisenyai Village to provide care through an outreach clinic. The level of need was overwhelming, with over one hundred people gathered and waiting to be seen. The day was extremely busy and came with its share of challenges, but the team did an incredible job staying focused and working as hard as possible. Witnessing the community’s support and gratitude was truly inspiring.
Kellen was struck by the sheer number of people who needed care. Participating in the group prayer before the clinic began was a powerful moment, and seeing the hope reflected in everyone’s faces left a lasting impression. Throughout the day, Kellen was deeply moved by the stories people shared and made a conscious effort to connect with each patient while taking vital signs and collecting information. While the day was filled with love and compassion, it also carried moments of heartbreak. One child Kellen worked with, whom he quickly connected with through a shared love of football, received devastating news. After being involved in a motorcycle accident, the boy learned he would need surgery on his leg and would likely face amputation. Seeing the boy’s mother break down in tears was incredibly humbling. Despite the life altering news, Kellen was amazed by the boy’s resilience and positive attitude as he continued to joke and smile in the face of an uncertain future
Melissa got to hold a newborn baby. The mother and baby are doing well. There were many patients already waiting for the team to arrive. We don’t speak the language, but you could feel the gratitude from the crowd. Melissa saw babies to 85 year olds with all kinds of problems. Some of the medical issues do not have a treatment or cure. It is hard to see the disappointment when having to tell the patient or a parent that there’s nothing that can be done. Some people have old injuries that they are hoping to get corrected, but it’s too late. Melissa liked the experience of seeing problems that do not happen in the US. Goiter is an issue that is seen here likely because iodine is not added to the salt. There’s so many emotions to process after the experiences the team has dealt with today. Sometimes, we have to accept that God may not give us the solution the team or the patient expected.
This is Mama Gayle. Wow, what a day. We saw so many patients with many referrals made to Selian Hospital on Monday when we will be there. They will have additional diagnostic test and medical treatment but many will need surgery. Team saw medical conditions that they will never see in the US. What a great learning experience for them. I was so excited that I got to hold a newborn baby at a clinic. Love those babies. 
I am excited that I was able to get Grace at the airport tonight. Her flight was canceled and we had to rebook hers because of the weather in Amsterdam. It was so good to see and really need her help for our outreach clinic tomorrow! Thanks to all the donors because your donations are supporting our medical work here. Lives will be changed. To God be the glory.
What an awesome team we had today. Love them all!
