We have just finished week 2 in the camp. It has been fairly busy, seeing about 1,000 patients each week. We continue to see children with malaria, pneumonia, lots of diarrhea and dehydration, and many wounds. Wound care is an important part of the work we are doing here, due to poor sanitation and hygiene. Some patients walk each day for several miles to have their wound cleaned and dressed. Today, a little girl had smashed her middle finger of her left hand in the water pump at the well, getting water. Her injury was horrific, basically removing the skin and tissue down to the bone. We cleaned it up, gave her pain medication and sent her to Mbararra for further evaluation. I felt so bad for her, I know she was in so much pain.

Yesterday, I was talking with Micah, the new "clinical officer" for this project. ( similar to physician assistant in training). He is such a pleasant young man. I discovered that he is 23 years old and has been out of his training program for 7 months. I was asking him about his future plans for marriage and such. He told me that marriage would be difficult for him now, as he has 3 younger siblings. His mother died several years ago of AIDS and he is now responsible for the 3 younger children. He supports them financially so they may attend school. You would never know when interacting with Micah that he faces such hardship. He does so with grace.

Davis, a Ugandan nurse with MTI, will be providing community health in the refugee camp. He also is a fine young man, always smiling, pleasant, and so bright. He told me today about his belief that God is always faithful. He left his village when he was a young man, with a small suitcase, to go to the University in Kampala, many hours away. His family discouraged him, knowing he did not have enough money. He continued telling them that God would be faithful to him. He went to the University, managed to get free room and board from a professor, after telling the teacher about his faith. He tells of how each time he needed money for books or fees, it came through with support from many different people. He has such a heart for people. Davis's faith and perserverance is inspiring.

Since it is Saturday, when we finished with the patients, we walked from the clinic to the little church the Adventists have built in the camp. (I mentioned it before) Once again, we were welcomed with opened arms, beautiful singing and drums! This time it was Calla and Kathy's turn to address the people. They had two groups sing songs for us. I am always amazed at their ability to harmonize so beautifully, of course I find it amazing that others can carry a tune! (I can't) Once again, I was able to experience worship "unplugged". No lights, audio equipment, fancy windows, or special clothes, just praise for God. It was beautiful.

Please pray for the people of Uganda, and all the refugees struggling to exist here in Nakivale camp.
Mungu akubariki!
Lisa