Kigami – North Maragoli

IMG_4199IMG_0409IMG_4222We had a very successful clinic today. It was held in the Kigami Friend’s Church, a larger space than yesterday, which made working much easier. We treated 538 patients in the clinic. In addition, 300 children were dewormed, 2 patients were sent to hospital, 20 patients were treated for jiggers, and 5 wounds were treated. One of our hospital patients will have his finger amputated on Monday and the other was treated for an infected mouth (he had been hit by his son). Without treatment, both of these men would have died. We are grateful that we were in the right place at the right time and could provide the care they needed.

Now let me tell you a story about a woman with 7 children. In October of 2013, an emaciated woman named Grace walked a great distance to come to our clinic. She was clearly unwell. Her small baby, who was still at home, was very ill and she had been unable to carry the child the great distance to be treated. We sent our matatu back to her home to obtain the baby. The child was ill from malaria and was starving as Grace was unable to produce milk for him. For anyone who worked on this mission, I know you have never forgotten her.

DSC_0244A plan was put into place where some food was delivered to her daily to feed herself and her 7 children. It was done in a very quiet manner as her spouse drinks to excess and there was a fear that he would sell the food. As Grace’s health improved, she was able to find some work and has continued to feed her family. Last year, she returned to clinic giving great thanks for the assistance we gave her.

IMG_4201 IMG_4200Grace walked to the clinic today with 2 of her children who had respiratory issues. To say thank you, she presented Gail with a live chicken. This is a gift of the highest order in Kenya. She gave “from her table” to say thank you for the gift of health. She said “you saved me from the grave”. And we did!

Today, CNFA travelled to her house as we had heard it was falling down. The house is at the bottom of quite a steep hill, so when it rains, the water runs into the house. The back of the house is collapsing, and the neighbours are quite concerned that it is going to fall down (and it is). The roof is full of holes so the water comes in from there also.

There is no bed for the children, only rags to sleep on. As the house is damp, the rags and blankets become damp and need to be laid outside each day to dry. Can you imagine the mold in that cloth? It is no wonder the children have respiratory issues. Grace, who has been implanted with a Norplant birth control device, has to focus on feeding the rest of her children. Her children look nourished and she has come a long way in the last 1-1/2 years. Her need for a house is immediate.

IMG_4230 IMG_4228 IMG_4229We estimate it will take $500 CDN to build Grace and her family a new house in a nearby location. The community will assist in constructing the home. In addition, it would be great to have beds for the children.

Any financial assistance you can lend to this special project would make a huge difference in the life of one courageous lady and her family. Please contact Canadian Nurses for Africa if you would like to help.

This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. Lynn

    Each day I look to see what the new post will be. Truly amazing what you do in such a short time. Actually saving lives and changing lives too. You are all angels. Keep up the fantastic work.

  2. Susanne Zinkie

    I would like to make a donation to help with this house. What do I need to do? You are all doing such a wonderful job and I wish I were younger and more agile to be able to be with you. God bless each of you and those you serve.

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