We treat; Jesus heals

2-11-09
I’ve been reading through a book-“Miracle at Tenwek- the Life of Dr. Ernie Steury” on the history of my current home here in Kenya, Africa. My wonder at the legacy of how Tenwek came to be increases as I meet people and hear stories of the love, lives and trust in God that has been poured into serving the Kenyan tribes of Masai and Kipsigis people for the past seventy some odd years.
From past to present, God has been given glory and honor for what Tenwek is and the countless changed lives of people who enter the grounds. The common phrase heard around here is “We treat; Jesus heals.” The belief and actions shown by long and short term doktaris (doctors), US medical students, US residents, COs (clinical officers of Kenya), MOs (medical officers of Kenya) and others reveals the truth of this historical statement, also evidenced in meal-time prayers, medical conversations/consultations and life-actions of people involved with Tenwek Hospital. I encourage you to check out the website for more detailed information and facts about Tenwek.

http://www.tenwek.org/

It is (based on my understanding) a highly equipped mission hospital (ranking 5 out of 6 for Africa), but the stories and needs of patients and their families who come to Tenwek are mind-boggling in their often distressing deprivation of what is commonly taken for granted in the US. I’ve spent some of my extra time at the hospital, meeting so many whose stories sadden my heart, and make me cringe at all I take for granted. I pray my heart grows increasingly sensitive and more aware of the needs all around me (anywhere I am) and that God gives me wisdom and an obedient heart to follow His calling in my life.

2-14-09
This past week I had the much anticipated opportunity to tour Tenwek Hospital. It was eye-opening and attention grabbing to meet a few of the patients I had heard about and see the action behind the "we treat; Jesus Heals" mission statement. First I went to the "Theatre" where the operations take place and saw my friend Tom cleaning the wound of a woman whose hand had been caught in a machine that grinds tea leaves. I watched a man's stomach being stitched back up after his tumor had been taken out. A visiting urologist, Ed Miedema, was hard at work and I peeked in at his complicated looking "video game" procedure. After this, I popped into casualty (E.R.) and while waiting for my tour guide to insert a foley (catheter), I played with a baby whose mom was complaining of a "bone" in her stomach. Watching an 8yr. old paraplegic orphan boy with sad looking bedsores was hard, but real. I am so thankful for the people God has called to medical missions, and the work they are doing here (or wherever God has called them). Two days later I went back to the hospital to watch a baby delivery! I was so excited for this opportunity, but alas- my body refused to allow me the excitement and I passed out cold before the head even showed! I felt bad, but "It happens to everyone at least once" is what I was kindly told. We'll see-if I try again I might just bring a chair, pop and popcorn while I wait and wait and wait.... :)


Tim Love gave me a tour of the hospital. He and his wife are preparing for a life in Ethiopia and I've been greatly encouraged by stories and the stories, passion and love for God and people I've seen.