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By: LeAnne DeTar Newbert
Team Leader
An enthusiastic team of 14 set off for Africa. In spite of spending an
unscheduled night in Nairobi, courtesy of Kenya Air, we arrive at the Blue Sky,
a beautiful beach front B and B on an Indian Ocean reef. We were warmly greeted
by "Maggie" the colorful and gracious hostess who provided African-Belgium
cuisine, daily fresh laundry, and a delightful personality to all her
"Sweeties."
Our first 2 clinic days were spent at WEMA, an orphanage and school
complex housing 120 children, ages 3-19.Featured there was a newly funded
HIV/AIDS Awareness Center where sports, art, craft, and drama are used to
communicate accurate information to community teens.Other
clinic days were spent at two churches and back on the "clinic on the beach" at
Maggie's. We saw 1047 patients plus a number of "undocumented" ones.
One story in particular demonstrates God's sovereign timing and loving care in
our lives. A young unmarried woman had come to me to discuss her unwanted
pregnancy. She had already consulted a doctor about an abortion. I looked
around for help and spotted 2 visitors to the clinic from a local church. The
three women retreated to a nearby palm and for the next 45 minutes. When they
returned, the young mother's face shone with hope and relief. As she left,
carrying a large bag of vitamins, she said, "Maybe my baby will be a president
of Kenya some day!”
The awe-inspiring beach sunrises, constant beat of the surf at night,
and a vibrant team spirit provided the catalyst for amazing personal, spiritual,
and professional growth in this short 2 week mission. I was privileged to lead
this talented team and am confident that the seeds planted will grow strong.  |
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