Dr. Sowell actually has spent much time in Guatemala over the years - starting back in the 1960's working in various medical clinics and also spent some time living here in Quetzaltenango and Guatemala City. We are honored to have him and Connie here working with us. They are staying at a small hotel where they gtet to enjoy a great view of the mountains. In talking with people who have worked in missions for many years we continue to realize how good we have it now with transportation, internet, cell phones, electricity, running water (although we do not have all the time). Being a missionary today sure does not seem as difficult as it used to be!
Our week started well with a good clinic at Clinica Caris yesterday where we had 36 patients. This is a good number for us as it allows us to spend extra time with the patients and discuss the reasons they are visiting and to get to know them a little more and to pray with them. Today we had a number of follow-up patients and a couple of patients that were referred by others who recieved care in the past.
Yesterday we also had an emergency patient present. This was a little boy about 11 years old who had burned his legs in a gasoline fire. We evaluated him and quickly sent him to the local hospital to visit with a local US missionary surgeon, Dr. Tom Hoak. We later called to follow-up and learned that the boy has mostly 2nd degree burns but also has some 3rd degree burns around his calf muscle which could present some problems. Dr. Hoak encouraged the family to take the boy to the hospital in Guatemala City with a burn unit but the family is not responding well to his medical advice. Thus, 2 of our health promoters Gaspar and Manuel are going to visit them this morning to discuss the importance of follow-up and the need to get him the proper treatment. This family has a history of not complying with medical advice, so please pray that God will touch their hearts to seek the proper treatment for their son. Without proper treatment he could have some serious complications.
Lisa continues her work at the government clinic in Chuabaj and is seeing around 15 patients per day. Please continue to pray for her in this transition.
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Hello friends!! Last night I was talking with a friend who had lived in Guatemala. I was trying to remember some Kiche phrases. You would be proud I came up with about five. I bet you are fluent Kiche speakers by now! Sounds like things are going well. I am finally officially graduated, certified, and licensed. I got a job in a small town in Arkansas, family practice and inpatient hospital. Starting on Monday! I am excited. There is a large hispanic population there, so hopefully I will get to use some Spanish. Just thought I would give you an update. Tell everyone I said hello. Take it easy.
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