Exciting new clinic in Xatinab I

Today we were invited to a new community called Xatinab I. A sister from that Church had been to one of our clinics when we did not have very many patients and she said that in her area there was a great need for a clinic. She prepared her home, announced the clinic on the radio and met us in the rode to travel with us to her house.

We drove as far as we could and then carried all of our equipment and medicine to her home. It was an interesting hike. The first two photos are of mom making new Guatemalan friends. She wanted to ride one the rest of the way to the house but we did not have a cow saddle.

The next photo is of Gaspar, Manuel, Juan and Tomas unloading the truck. We had a wonderful response in the community. We had Dr. Hurley with us again, who made it possible for all 57 patients to be seen.

We began our clinic as usual with prayer.......asking God to bless the medicine to help the patients but also for the patients to understand that they need God more than medicine.

The last photo is of a malnourished child who is 1 yr and 7 months old. He weighed only 12 pounds. Josefina told the mother how sick the child was and that he would die if not taken to the hospital. At first she said no because her husband would be very upset. We talked more to her and she told us that she may return. I offered to drive her to the hospital if she would go.

We were served lunch which consisted of beef soup, tamales and pineapple drink. We finished seeing all of the patients and packed for our return trip. We had a discussion on when we could return to this area. We saw today there is a definite need in the community.

As were were ready to leave, the mother with the child returned to the house so we could take them to the hospital. The sister that had arranged the clinic rode with us to show support and even remained at the hospital with the mother and baby. Please pray for this baby and the family situation. As soon as we have an update, I will pass it on.

Update: Josefina's dad has visited the baby, Juan Diego, and the mother in the hospital. His report is that the baby is stronger and doing better. He is receiving IV medications, oxygen and feedings by a naso-gastric tube. Please continue your prayers for this child and family.