Sunday, January 22, 2017

We Do What We Can Do, and Do It the Best We Can

Last night, during our daily debriefing gathering, Bart shared how several small improvements had been implemented in the pharmacy area.  These had to do with how medicine labels are applied, how they are organized on-site, and how liquid medicines are transferred into smaller containers for dispensing to patients.  Though these changes may not directly impact the health of our patients, they do improve accuracy and reduce patient wait times.

At many of our clinics sites, we rig tarps to provide some shade from the harsh sun, and give out stickers and small toys for the children to make the experience a more pleasant one.  These are little things we can do for those who come to our clinics for help. 

Some families come to us hungry.  We can’t solve their poverty issues, but we can give them beans, rice, and corn. We bring plastic bags and cloth carrying sacks to make it easier for families to carry their food and medicine back home.  Some patients see us with chronic illnesses.  We can’t cure them, but we can supply them with a two or three month’s supply of their medicine.

The eye glasses station has a new diagnostic machine.  This portable, hand-held auto refractor measures patients’ eyes and tells us the exact glasses prescription they need.  It speeds up the process dramatically and allows us to serve people more efficiently and effectively.  Even though we don’t have the perfect pair for every prescriptive need, we have had some.  When we don’t have the right glasses, we take the time to explain the situation and why we can’t help them. 


Today, our clinic was in Los Charcos, about a one and a half hour bus ride from Cofradia. We have visited here multiple times over the years.  Some time ago, an epidemic of birth defects swept the area leaving many children born with special needs. 
 We were able to reconnect with many families who we have served in the past. We can’t cure them, but we can love on them and help improve their quality of life.

This was clearer than ever today as we watched Donna Trotter, our resident physical therapist, work patiently with these special needs children and their parents.  She taught them exercises to help improve muscle tone, strengthen muscles, and relieve pain.  Thanks to modern technology, mothers were video recording Donna’s instructions using their cell phones! Now, they will be able to accurately repeat the exercises with their children in the days and months ahead. 

On a lighter note, we love coming to Los Charcos and watching a pet monkey who lives across the street from the school!  He never fails to put a smile on our face with his “monkeying around.”

Yesterday, I asked for prayers for rest.  We did get a good night’s sleep last night – thank you!  And, today’s clinic turnout was mercifully slow.  Consequentially, most of us feel more relaxed.  We all look forward to some down time at Cofradia tonight.

Update on a prayer request - we got word today that both the lost suitcases have finally found their way to Honduras.  However, Delta Airlines sent them to San Pedro Sula instead of to Tegucigalpa.  A driver is bringing them here tomorrow.  Patty and Susan D are looking forward to being reunited with their belongings!

Tomorrow, we head to La LaBranza.  We’ve been told our clinic has been advertised on the radio.  Pray with us that we will have the stamina to serve everyone in a gracious manner.  Pray that our efforts to serve well will communicate the love of our Father who always and continuously serves us well.



2 comments:

Unknown said...

This is such a great post. Knowing the small things you all are doing makes the trip seem so much more real. And what a blessing to see that it's what might seem small in what you do that adds up to such a huge impact on those you serve. You all should be very proud of yourselves for making the commitment to go and embracing the people who come to you no matter how tired you may become. Most importantly, surely the Lord blesses you for serving so well those in need. Glad for the good night's rest last night (Sunday night). I hope today (Monday) proved not as difficult as Saturday. But even if it did, I know the Lord has the right people to serve and serve, no matter what! Blessings To All of You for your work in Honduras!

Unknown said...

Oh, I forgot... more money videos please! :->