Daily life

Life in Kenya is obviously so much different than here. I quickly learned that when we were there, but I now have a much better appreciation for the simple pleasures that life has to offer. Their homes were small one-room buildings, they may have been lucky enough to have shoes, yet they often times did not match or fit, toilet paper is hard to come by- make sure to carry it with you, no paper towels- anywhere (it's a waste), laundry in the rivers, no dryers, beds are a luxury, mud everywhere. . . . Here are some pictures of everyday life. To us: shocking and sad. To them: normal

 

 

I'm blessed beyond belief!

Update on the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital

Even though Cindy and I are home, Stacia, Linda, and Stephany are still in Eldoret continuing the work at the Mother Baby Hospital. I thought I would give an update about the strike. The strike is unfortunately still going on. The negotiations with the gov't are still continuing. Most of the hospital remains quiet and desolate without the commotion of day to day doctors and nurses. The majority of wealthier patients who are still in need of health care have left to go to private hospitals but this leaves the poorer class with no where to go. It sounds like some from the IU house are able to go and do as much as they can. With that being said; you can only do so much- so thank you to all of you who are putting in long hours and days for your patients. Luckily enough, the nurses in the NICU are allowed to work in order to take care of the babies - this includes our team of three. I know they are making great progress in the NICU and with the teaching program. Please continue to pray for this sad situation occurring in Kenya. There are so many individuals being affected by this strike: physicians, nurses, teachers, the community, children, families of the sick, families of those who have already passed, and so many more. Here is a link to one of the news stories about the strike:

http://allafrica.com/stories/201209190202.html

Maasai Culture

While driving to and from Safari, we were able to see some of the Massai culture. The Massai are one of the best known African ethnic groups located in Kenya and northern Tanzania. They have very distinctive customs, dress, and intricate jewelry, and we could easily spot them out while driving through the countryside. We were able to see a Maasai dance at dinner one night- it consisted of jumping, shouting, and their way of dancing. Their lifestyle is centered around their cattle and children. We saw a lot of herds of cattle and sheep while driving along. We even got stuck on a bridge and had to wait while all the cows passed by our van one by one! While waiting, we could see a lady washing clothes in the river and hanging them on a tree to dry. Along the entire drive, children would run up to the van, hold out their hands, and say: sweets, sweets. They wanted candy! We also had people stop us and ask for water along the way. I feel so fortunate that I am not in need of water everyday. Here are some pictures of the Maasai;

Much Appreciation

I just wanted to thank everyone for all the prayers and thoughts while we were in Kenya. The entire trip was a life changing trip that was amazing in so many ways yet humbling and eye-opening at the same time. I have such a greater appreciation for the small things in life that I took for granted. It definitely showed me how blessed I am more than I had ever dreamed. Thank you all again.

Home

We made it home safe and sound! No major issues with our flights! Staci and Linda, the other two Newborn ICU nurses, are now in Eldoret continuing working with the nurses in the NICU. If you would like to keep following along with the progress, their blog website is: www.snickell63.blogspot.com

Safari

Safari - The Big Five

We were so lucky to see all that we did. Not everyone gets to see the Big Five on just one safari - African elephant, Cape buffalo, lion, leopard, and black rhinoceros! We had an amazing time.