Sunday, June 03, 2007

Back Home Again!

How do I tell you about my trip to Kenya? I should have sent this out earlier, but these past two weeks have been very eventful.

First, let me tell you about Larry Rupp (the one with whom I made this trip). He had gotten an infection in his hip during this trip. It went from being painful to making Larry unable to walk or move within just a few days. Providentially, there were two doctors on the team from Virginia that were at the home as well. They both convinced Larry that he needed to get home as soon as possible, with me accompanying him. We were scheduled to return home May 28th, but instead we came home on the 21st. Larry was immediately taken to the emergency room at Presbyterian Hospital. They ran numerous tests and scans; they operated on the hip where the infection had “settled in” (he had both hips replaced in 2003) The surgery was quite successful, however, it required additional recovery time. They are treating Larry with antibiotics; this weekend he has been able to walk with a walker for short distances. The current issue is that his liver has been compromised. His blood is very thin. He is also very bloated; not just his legs or feet, but his entire body. He is making progress, but it has been slow. As of Sunday, June 3rd, Larry is still in the hospital.

Now, on the brighter side of the trip, although my time there was shortened by a week, we were able to make the desks for the computer room (only the 3rd coat of varnish remained to be done when I left). This is a room inside of a 30-foot diameter circular building (with the computer desks cut to follow the outside wall curvature.

I especially want to thank you for praying for me during my time there and while traveling. I would encourage you to remember the 80 children currently residing along with the local staff at the children’s home (www.kajiadochildrenshome.com ) In particular, please pray:

· for Larry’s continued recovery, that it be a quick and complete healing,
o it is expected that Larry will be in the hospital through this week yet
o that he gets some relief from pain (and the continuing hiccups)
· giving thanks to God for all the details with changing the flights
o the penalty charges for changing the return ($200) were not charged
o the care provided at each airport (Nairobi, Amsterdam, Detroit),
o wheelchairs provided, along with airport personnel to get us through the maze of security and check-in
· that Linda (his wife) would be able to get the sleep she needs
· for wisdom among the doctors attending to Larry’s recovery,
· praising God that I was able to assist with the needs of this children’s home again

Thank you! It is because of your support that I am able to use my gifts in ministry, serving a Risen Lord. May He richly bless you