The Docs

Three weeks after I'd just been there for a regional leadership meeting, Belize welcomed me back with open arms...and fresh tropical flowers on the coffee table in a building I'd never stayed in before, The Cabana (loved it!). 

My task this time was straightforward: host a pair of physicians, both known and hand-picked by the Belize team, who'd be conducting individual assessments for six* families of kids with disabilities in Valley of Peace, a Salvadorian immigrant community. Let this be a friendly PSA to check incoming passengers' flight statuses before driving an hour to go pick them up. 

Me: "Coffee shops near me"

Google Maps: 👆

Drs. Charlie (left) and Keith (2nd from left) came at an opportune time: the outset of a "Mercy House" project, the primary driver of which is the Rev. Benjamín Flores (right). It's not a physical place but rather a three-pronged campaign to provide support and resources to the aforementioned families in three categories: basic needs (milk, medication, diapers, etc.); physiotherapy; and pastoral care. Pastor Benjamín laid the groundwork for them - and me - first thing. 

Later that evening, missionaries, families, local medical practitioners, and preschool teachers gathered at Iglesia Luterana El Buen Pastor for the Mercy House's official kickoff. Pastor Benjamín introduced each child, always ending with "We thank God for ________'s life," and then cast the vision with a modified version of his AM presentation. 

The sense of community amongst families with similar circumstances who hadn't previously known each other was palpable.

Friday was a long, heavy day of meeting the families: two at Little Lambs Lutheran Preschool followed by four in-home. The same story of complications during or shortly after birth, tests, and surgeries seemed to be playing on Repeat. I'm still dumbfounded by the heroic, selfless love these parents (largely single mothers) have for their children. There is no way but by the grace of God and the strength of His Spirit that they can get through each day. 

Xander's mom Dania had mastered every therapy technique she'd been taught and done no small amount of internet research as to the latest global trends in treating her son's condition. 

God's hand in putting Pastor Benjamín in the right place at the right time is evident. His own son's story of paralysis in one arm has given him a patience and sensitivity that can't be taught.  

Dr. Charlie used high-tech implements to look in each child's eyes, ears, and nose and listen to their heartbeats. I'm not sure whether or not he was garnering usable information, but his attention and the power of physical touch made each child feel cherished and demonstrated his or her worth in the Kingdom.

Lexie had so much fun with Dr. Keith she didn't even realize she was practicing important motor skills.

Cristián - held by mom Pedrina - was our last stop before lunch.

We were thankful for the respite of Jasmin and Liam's home during one of the deluges that came and went throughout the day. 

In ascending height order...me, Dr. Charlie, Rev. Herb Burch, and Dr. Keith on the morning "the docs" would head home. Due to an unforeseen circumstance, I had another ~24 hours. 

Rain (booooooo) put a damper on all the plans I'd made in my head for my bonus Saturday afternoon, but Tía Erin time was a welcome pause in what had been a hectic month. The Wildauer kids taught me FOUR new games around a 3-hour soccer practice. 

It was an exciting honor to be on hand for the start of something big that will likely involve volunteers in myriad ways as it expands and develops. The Burches drove me to the airport Sunday morning, fighting a bike race on the George Price Highway most of the way, and I arrived safe and sound at my house around 2:30 am on Monday morning. My next international trip isn't until - are you ready? - May, when I'll be heading to - you guessed it - Belize again. I'm presently relishing in being home, but things in the DR will be far from quiet between now and then...

Until next time, blessings in Christ!

*Not pictured: Ángel, Matthew.