July 28, 2009

Sorry that it has been a week since we have posted to the blog. An ocean cable off the coast of Africa was disrupted and the entire West Africa was without internet access. It just got repaired last night.

All is well here as the weather is a little cooler than normal. So, that is a bright spot even though it is the rainy season and we see showers every day or so. Also, another bright spot is our patient care is going well. Much to do and many different disease processes that we are faced with. Many emergency surgeries since the Togolese usually wait much longer to seek real medical attention than we would in the US. Dianne remains busy assisting people here especially trying to assist in getting the accounting system up to date. A lady of many talents!!!!

In this culture the Togolese family members are expected to be at the hospital and bring food and bathe their relatives. No food services at the hospital are provided, except IV!! There is a building behind the hospital called the Cuisine. No, it is not a place to take out or order gourmet. It is a place for family and patients who live long distance and still need medical care but not hospitalization. It is a dirt floor open area where they sleep and cook their food on little charcoal fires. Dianne visited the Cuisine and took some candy and everyone was eager to get the candy. Not only the children but the adults. They are a wonderfully happy and patient people.

We have another week here at the hospital and it continues to promise busy times. We are looking forward to returning and sharing our experiences with each of you. Thank you ever so much for your prayers because this ministry is part your ministry as well. We all serve the same Lord and he continues to bind each one of us together, despite any distance apart.

Blessings and Peace in His service