Okay, you haven’t heard from me in a while. There is a good reason. I went to the capitol, Banjul, for the weekend and got sick. I was so sick with Bronchitis and the low blood sugars, that my fellow missionaries decided I needed to stay there. I spent two weeks at the guest house. I am really praising God for providing that facility. It was so nice to have a place to stay that didn’t cost an arm and a leg. My medicine and medical exams over the past month have exceeded the price of my arms and legs. God has provided for all my needs and I praise him for taking such good care of me.
My friends in Ndungu Kebbeh were getting very worried that I would run off to America. I am very thankful that I was able to get the tests I needed done here. I am feeling better than I have in weeks. I am planning on getting back to work but taking things slowly with good periods of rest as it continues to be hot and humid. This is the time of the greatest illness in our area. Several of the clinic employees have been out sick the last few weeks. The month of the Fast is coming to an end. This will help improve the health of our neighbors.
Friday was a tough day for our staff as two children succumbed to cerebral Malaria. One child was the two year old daughter of one of our watchman and my house worker’s niece. Please pray fro the family as they mourn the loss of their young girl.
Thank you for your prayers. God is definitely at work here in The Gambia.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Friday, September 14, 2007
Taking Advantage of a Working Phone Line
I returned from Banjul on Monday of this week. My phone hasn't been working since Tuesday. So, since it is a bright sunny day (praise the Lord- our solar needed it), I am making use of a working phone line and solar!
This is Kumba, one of the gals I took shopping last Saturday. She is wearing her new uniform and shoes and is carrying her new book bag. Kumba was named after our dear friend Ruth Wood, whose Gambian name is Kumba.
The Islamic Month of Ramadan started. This is the month of fasting from sun up until sun down. It is a long month. Please pray for the believers as this is a time of much trial for them. I will be swamped with requests for cold and hot water, chocolate and juice. It is an interesting month.
Interesting Days
The last few days have been very interesting. I will share with you some of the highlights.
I went into Banjul to see a doctor. Dr Jagne is from Nigeria and has been in The Gambia about a year. He is working at a private clinic not too far from our guesthouse. I had an appointment early Wednesday morning. They have a lot of nice equipment there. I had my pulse oximetry checked. He also ran some blood work at the lab there. Then came the big news, he wanted me to have a CT scan of the abdomen. I didn’t even know there was a a CT machine in the country. I learned a lot this week. He also wanted some other blood work. So, he gave me names and phone numbers of people at the city hospital. That afternoon I called about scheduling the CT scan. They told me to come down so they could read my paper. I wasn’t too happy about it, but decided I should walk out to the road and catch a taxi. (Now that is a story in and of its self. Ask if you want to know.) After I arrived at the hospital, I found the Radiology Department and they were waiting for me. I had the CT done that day. Thirty minutes later and I was finding a taxi to head back to the guesthouse. Praise God!
The next morning I was up early to catch a ride to the Lab at the same hospital I was at the day before. I went in to have the blood drawn. Four pokes later, (I tried to tell her to relax that I understood the difficulties of drawing blood), I was out the door until the afternoon. When I returned to pick up the results I found the cashier had left for the day. I asked when I could pay and was told “you can pay any morning Monday through Friday or you could just go. It doesn’t matter to us.” I returned Monday morning to pay the lab. The woman sitting near me was stunned when she heard how much I had to pay. She asked me in Wolof (she knew me by word of mouth and knew I spoke Wolof) why was my test SO expensive. I told her the truth, because I am a white person from another country. I was a bit shocked. I told her I didn’t expect it to be five bags of rice. She looked at me and said, it was five bags of rice plus the money needed to buy the ingredients for the sauces to go with the rice. That lovely lady was a blessing to my soul.
All though the tests were a bit expensive, I praise the Lord I was able to have the testing done.
Friday I had a return trip to Dr. Jagne to review all the results and obtain one more blood test. There was nothing scary wrong with me. I would have to eat small frequent meals to deal with the hypoglycemia.
Monday I headed home via the ferry once again. I had a new experience on the ferry. If you ever have the opportunity to visit The Gambia, you have to try the ferry. I didn’t take a car, so I was one of many of the walk on passengers herded onto the ferry just before it leaves the dock. I ended up standing with my suitcase, just behind a small black car with Gambian Government plates. I pulled out my umbrella to provide shade from the sun. The ferry turned around to travel in what we would think of as reverse (it has to do with what engines are working best on the ferry). It meant that I was now in the front as we crossed the river; we would turn around again for docking and unloading. But I had a nice view of the ocean and river as we traveled. There were a few fishing boats out in the river. One boat didn’t move and the ferry got too close. I could see the guys eyes as we passed. He was trying to get the anchor up and move. Apparently when we passed him, our wake caused the boat to tip and he went into the water. The ferry engines were cut. I couldn’t figure out why they were stopping in the middle of the river. The man next to me went to the side of the ferry to see what was up. The fisherman was okay, he was picked up by another boat and his boat didn’t sink. The ferry driver waited to make sure the man was okay before continuing on. Never a dull moment!
I went into Banjul to see a doctor. Dr Jagne is from Nigeria and has been in The Gambia about a year. He is working at a private clinic not too far from our guesthouse. I had an appointment early Wednesday morning. They have a lot of nice equipment there. I had my pulse oximetry checked. He also ran some blood work at the lab there. Then came the big news, he wanted me to have a CT scan of the abdomen. I didn’t even know there was a a CT machine in the country. I learned a lot this week. He also wanted some other blood work. So, he gave me names and phone numbers of people at the city hospital. That afternoon I called about scheduling the CT scan. They told me to come down so they could read my paper. I wasn’t too happy about it, but decided I should walk out to the road and catch a taxi. (Now that is a story in and of its self. Ask if you want to know.) After I arrived at the hospital, I found the Radiology Department and they were waiting for me. I had the CT done that day. Thirty minutes later and I was finding a taxi to head back to the guesthouse. Praise God!
The next morning I was up early to catch a ride to the Lab at the same hospital I was at the day before. I went in to have the blood drawn. Four pokes later, (I tried to tell her to relax that I understood the difficulties of drawing blood), I was out the door until the afternoon. When I returned to pick up the results I found the cashier had left for the day. I asked when I could pay and was told “you can pay any morning Monday through Friday or you could just go. It doesn’t matter to us.” I returned Monday morning to pay the lab. The woman sitting near me was stunned when she heard how much I had to pay. She asked me in Wolof (she knew me by word of mouth and knew I spoke Wolof) why was my test SO expensive. I told her the truth, because I am a white person from another country. I was a bit shocked. I told her I didn’t expect it to be five bags of rice. She looked at me and said, it was five bags of rice plus the money needed to buy the ingredients for the sauces to go with the rice. That lovely lady was a blessing to my soul.
All though the tests were a bit expensive, I praise the Lord I was able to have the testing done.
Friday I had a return trip to Dr. Jagne to review all the results and obtain one more blood test. There was nothing scary wrong with me. I would have to eat small frequent meals to deal with the hypoglycemia.
Monday I headed home via the ferry once again. I had a new experience on the ferry. If you ever have the opportunity to visit The Gambia, you have to try the ferry. I didn’t take a car, so I was one of many of the walk on passengers herded onto the ferry just before it leaves the dock. I ended up standing with my suitcase, just behind a small black car with Gambian Government plates. I pulled out my umbrella to provide shade from the sun. The ferry turned around to travel in what we would think of as reverse (it has to do with what engines are working best on the ferry). It meant that I was now in the front as we crossed the river; we would turn around again for docking and unloading. But I had a nice view of the ocean and river as we traveled. There were a few fishing boats out in the river. One boat didn’t move and the ferry got too close. I could see the guys eyes as we passed. He was trying to get the anchor up and move. Apparently when we passed him, our wake caused the boat to tip and he went into the water. The ferry engines were cut. I couldn’t figure out why they were stopping in the middle of the river. The man next to me went to the side of the ferry to see what was up. The fisherman was okay, he was picked up by another boat and his boat didn’t sink. The ferry driver waited to make sure the man was okay before continuing on. Never a dull moment!
Monday, September 3, 2007
Back to School Shopping
Do you enjoy Back to School Shopping? I went for two hours on Saturday and had a blast. I went to pick up the neighbors two little girls (grade one and two) and a neighbor girl tagged along. We walked to the open market in the center of town. There I purchased uniform material for the two girls. The Third asked me about hers, and I was able to tell her my coworker Teresa was sewing her pants. Yassin, the oldest, then told me what was next on the list: shoes, books pencils, colors, eraser, a book bag and body lotion. They each grabbed a hand or two fingers and off we went. Those little faces were eyeing the tables of goodies for the perfect shoes. Yassin discovered her pair (bright purple) and pulled the rest of us over. Not to be out done, her younger half sister, Kumba, found a matching pair in orange. Ami shyly asked if she could have a pair. I agreed and she happily tried on her favorite, red pair. We tucked the shoes in the growing tote bag and were off. The list was yet to be finished. We hunted for book bags. The variety would NOT put Wal-Mart to shame. The only ones I found were at the grab pile. (I think these items came from a Salvation Army type clothing drop. All the bags were used.) Picture my three adorable little girls; they jumped up and down like we had hit a jackpot. They rummaged through the pile until each was beaming. Yassin’s choice was shades of purple, Kumba’s was red, and Ami picked out a teal colored bag.
Yassin consulted her checklist in her head. We were off yet again. Now the real fun part about making these purchases is that each time you buy… you barter the cost. I felt I made good deals on the shoes and sacks, but the owner of the body lotion wanted more than I was willing to part with. So, we walked away. Sometimes that works and other times like today, it doesn’t. (Okay it did for the shoes!)
Our next big stop was a snack, bean sandwiches. They were just what I needed. Fortified we were off to the tailor. That was a fun experience as the girls stood to be measured. The uniforms were delivered today. It was a great trip. I was a little sunburned, managed to pick up potatoes and onions and some apples. Now you ready (this would put Wal-Mart to shame), my grand total for two complete uniforms and material for 3 more pants, three pair of shoes, 3 book bags, 4 1/2pounds of potatoes and 2 pounds of onions, plus sandwiches for four… $26.
Am I a good shopper or what!
Yassin consulted her checklist in her head. We were off yet again. Now the real fun part about making these purchases is that each time you buy… you barter the cost. I felt I made good deals on the shoes and sacks, but the owner of the body lotion wanted more than I was willing to part with. So, we walked away. Sometimes that works and other times like today, it doesn’t. (Okay it did for the shoes!)
Our next big stop was a snack, bean sandwiches. They were just what I needed. Fortified we were off to the tailor. That was a fun experience as the girls stood to be measured. The uniforms were delivered today. It was a great trip. I was a little sunburned, managed to pick up potatoes and onions and some apples. Now you ready (this would put Wal-Mart to shame), my grand total for two complete uniforms and material for 3 more pants, three pair of shoes, 3 book bags, 4 1/2pounds of potatoes and 2 pounds of onions, plus sandwiches for four… $26.
Am I a good shopper or what!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Pesky Little Critters....
Rainy season brings with it all kinds of fun looking bugs. Some of them are enjoyable... the butterfly, some are annoying: the flying termite and pincher bugs, and some lay you flat out! I caught a cold the other week and while my defenses were down but rebounding... I most likely ingested a nasty bug. I spent the better part of a week in bed. Didn't have much strength to do anything. I called Teresa late one evening to bring me some antibiotics and to get me on the mend. In the past it has only taken a day or so after the antibiotics are started to start feeling better. This time it took a few days longer. I am praising God that I am better and each day I have a bit more strength. I may even try going to Njufen tomorrow.
Thank you for your prayers, they are an encouragement, especially in times like this.
Thank you for your prayers, they are an encouragement, especially in times like this.
Monday, August 6, 2007
What a Morning!
Ever have one of those days? I woke up this morning knowing it was going to be a tough one. My cold isn't better. I set out to do what needed to be done.
The snake has died. I haven't decided what to do with it yet. The neighbors just hate that I have kept it thus far.
In preparation for the return of my coworkers, I called Joanne's houseworker to come clean. Boy, will she be glad I did. Lizard droppings were everywhere. I also started up her refrigerator. Not an easy task. I think the thing wants to die on us. Not good. But after much prayer and many start up attempts, a lot of sweat (that isn't hard to come by here) it finally started! PTL!! I put some water in her frig and freezer so she will have something cold when she gets home. I also measured a space for a bookcase. I had volunteered to do that when I returned last week. Opps, I apologised for my lateness.
Returning to my place to rest a bit, the effects of this cold have sapped my strength, the guard came to my door because someone had brought a siezing child to the gate. Now, everyone knows the clinic is closed. However, not one of our employees were in town to help this little one out. Thankfully, I was able to get a set of keys for the clinic and all though things were put away, I could do some rudimentary assesments for a fitting child and the medications were in the same place they were a year ago. Every thing came back to me. I called one of our drivers to come drive the child and family to Essau, our referal hospital. By the time the driver arrived I had given the child shots to stop the seizure, and for Malaria, the most likely cause. I couldn't check the blood because all the microscopes were packed away and I don't know where they put them. The child was stable when they left and I was able to pray quickly with the grandmother caretaker who is a believer.
Now, I am ready to start my day. : ) Praise God he goes before us!
The snake has died. I haven't decided what to do with it yet. The neighbors just hate that I have kept it thus far.
In preparation for the return of my coworkers, I called Joanne's houseworker to come clean. Boy, will she be glad I did. Lizard droppings were everywhere. I also started up her refrigerator. Not an easy task. I think the thing wants to die on us. Not good. But after much prayer and many start up attempts, a lot of sweat (that isn't hard to come by here) it finally started! PTL!! I put some water in her frig and freezer so she will have something cold when she gets home. I also measured a space for a bookcase. I had volunteered to do that when I returned last week. Opps, I apologised for my lateness.
Returning to my place to rest a bit, the effects of this cold have sapped my strength, the guard came to my door because someone had brought a siezing child to the gate. Now, everyone knows the clinic is closed. However, not one of our employees were in town to help this little one out. Thankfully, I was able to get a set of keys for the clinic and all though things were put away, I could do some rudimentary assesments for a fitting child and the medications were in the same place they were a year ago. Every thing came back to me. I called one of our drivers to come drive the child and family to Essau, our referal hospital. By the time the driver arrived I had given the child shots to stop the seizure, and for Malaria, the most likely cause. I couldn't check the blood because all the microscopes were packed away and I don't know where they put them. The child was stable when they left and I was able to pray quickly with the grandmother caretaker who is a believer.
Now, I am ready to start my day. : ) Praise God he goes before us!
Sunday, August 5, 2007
August Greetings
I am having a hard time believing that it is already August 5th. Yet part of me is looking forward to the 7th. I have been the only missionary in NK for the past two weeks. On Tuesday my co workers will be returning. I have enjoyed the time out here by myself. I have spent time with my neighbors and studying the language. I did go into Banjul for a four day trip which turned into five because of the rain. The traveling to and from was fun as I took local transport. I remember sitting in the back of the van thinking... how many people will it take to fill this thing? The answer that day was 29 adults, four children and a baby. We were packed in so tight I had the thought, "no wonder why so many service when these vehicles flip, you are crammed in so tight, there is no place for your body to go." It lead to a prayer for safety.
I was looking for some sweet time with friends this weekend, but I have a cold. Not just an annoyance of a cold, but the kind that knocks ya flat and you can't raise your head. I have managed to stay awake enough to speak to the guards each day. They stop by to make sure I am okay. I definately am not up to a walk in the sun. I have read a little and slept a lot. I think God is giving me a few days rest to rebuild my strength.
Rainy season has arrived full force now. In fact, last night we had a good storm. Watch out for something along the coast say on the 10th of August. The temperatures haven't dropped and the humidity continues to be a bother. As of yet I haven't heard of any houses falling and the farmers are thrilled with the rain for their crops.
I am conducting an experiment with a snake that I found in my house. He has survived without food and water for over three weeks. Scary, if a baby snake can survive that long, what about an adult snake? Ugh, this past Friday another snake braved my house. Also a baby snake. This one is not going to be an experiment. He met with my watchman and a stick. The stick won and the watchman won my deep gratitude. Two snakes in one month is a bit much for me. God is giving me strength to walk through the house. He is giving me peace to sleep at night. I am praying he doesn't bring me another snake.
I was looking for some sweet time with friends this weekend, but I have a cold. Not just an annoyance of a cold, but the kind that knocks ya flat and you can't raise your head. I have managed to stay awake enough to speak to the guards each day. They stop by to make sure I am okay. I definately am not up to a walk in the sun. I have read a little and slept a lot. I think God is giving me a few days rest to rebuild my strength.
Rainy season has arrived full force now. In fact, last night we had a good storm. Watch out for something along the coast say on the 10th of August. The temperatures haven't dropped and the humidity continues to be a bother. As of yet I haven't heard of any houses falling and the farmers are thrilled with the rain for their crops.
I am conducting an experiment with a snake that I found in my house. He has survived without food and water for over three weeks. Scary, if a baby snake can survive that long, what about an adult snake? Ugh, this past Friday another snake braved my house. Also a baby snake. This one is not going to be an experiment. He met with my watchman and a stick. The stick won and the watchman won my deep gratitude. Two snakes in one month is a bit much for me. God is giving me strength to walk through the house. He is giving me peace to sleep at night. I am praying he doesn't bring me another snake.
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