Thank you for sweet little Miriam and many others with similar stories. Thank you for your encouragement, prayers and financial support. Without you, these stories would not be possible.
video used with permission from Mercy Ships
Monday, November 25, 2019
Miriam
Thank you for sweet little Miriam and many others with similar stories. Thank you for your encouragement, prayers and financial support. Without you, these stories would not be possible.
video used with permission from Mercy Ships
Saturday, November 2, 2019
A true Friend
Sai’douba
and Alason have been through a lot together and as a result, have
developed a very unique friendship. Alason was there the day that
Sai’douba’s life changed drastically.When he was 18 years old, Sai’douba was horribly burned in a gas explosion at the garage he worked at, leaving his legs frozen in a bent position. Since the accident, his injuries have made Sai’douba depend entirely on his friend.
“If I want to go to the bathroom Alason is the one that helps me go,” Sai’douba said. “If I want to eat, Alason is the one who comes to help me. Whatever I want to do, Alason is the one that helps me, because I can’t do anything by myself.”
For the past eight months, Alason has been Sai’douba’s support and legs, caring for his friend and carrying him wherever they went.
“When I carry him, he’s a little bit heavy, but no one will help him if I don’t help him,”Alason said. “Sometimes my muscles get sore, but I have to care for him. Whenever I look at what happened to him, I want to cry inside my heart. Sai’douba’s injuries kept him in pain, but his inability to work caused him a lot of frustration.
“Before this accident, I was working at the garage,” Sai’douba said. “I worked a lot and made a little money. I would take that money and bring it home for my mom to buy food. I know my parents don’t have enough money so I’m very scared about it.”
One day, Sai’douba heard about a hospital ship that was providing free surgeries to those in need and shared the news with his friend. Alason carried Sai’douba to the ship knowing that it was his one chance at possibly finding healing. In preparation for his rehab, they measure the severity of Sai’douba’s burn contractures.
When they arrived, Sai’douba met with the volunteer medical staff measured the severity of his burn contractures. The next day, much to Alason and Sai’douba’s joy, he was scheduled to receive surgery onboard the Africa Mercy. After a four hour surgery that helped straighten both of his legs and his arm, Sai’douba was on his way to recovery.
“When I saw him coming out of surgery, I could see his legs were straight,” Alason said. “I now have hope he can walk again. He’ll be able to do everything for himself.”
After a couple days of rest, Sai’Douba began his rehabilitation, focusing on one goal — to walk again. It took a lot of practice and determination, but soon Sai’Douba was back on his feet, walking on his own for the first time since the accident.
“I’m so happy, after such a long time I’m walking again! So many people are encouraging me,” Sai’douba said. “I feel confident now. After a few months, I’ll be able to do everything I used to do. I can work, earn money, and provide for my parents!”
Story and photos provided by MercyShips New Zealand
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Osman Kamara - A story of Hope, Healing, Serving, Giving, A Major life change
Written by Jon Heinrich...One of our former crew members and shared with his permission.
Here is a wonderful story and the reason I took 2 more months in Africa after Ann left Mercy Ships to go home.
I came to be a friend and help Osman Kamara. You need to read his story because it is inspiring AND YOU can be part of it.
I came to be a friend and help Osman Kamara. You need to read his story because it is inspiring AND YOU can be part of it.
Osman
comes from a family of 4. His father passed away but his mother,
sisters, and brother are alive and live in Freetown, Sierra Leone. His
background is Muslim and he was raised with the Islam teachings and
still knows many of the prayers and chants.
When he was a child he was severely burned when a leak in the gas in the house caught on fire. He had a long and very painful recovery which left his arm and leg movements restricted because of the scarring. He told me his arms were locked at 90 degrees for full extension.
When he was a young teen he was having such serious issues with the wounds and inability to get around that he was taken to the hospital where they wanted to amputate his legs due to the healing issues and scarring.
We
fabricated 5 wheelchairs from the designs in his head and the designs
in the mind of Kevin Abrahams, the ship Machinist from South Africa.
Wheelchair Team Guinea 2018-19
With the help of10 crew members team, all 5 wheelchairs were done and given to the people Osman had screened.
When he was a child he was severely burned when a leak in the gas in the house caught on fire. He had a long and very painful recovery which left his arm and leg movements restricted because of the scarring. He told me his arms were locked at 90 degrees for full extension.
When he was a young teen he was having such serious issues with the wounds and inability to get around that he was taken to the hospital where they wanted to amputate his legs due to the healing issues and scarring.
Hope
He had a friend challenge him that if he believed in God, He would provide an answer rather than have his leg amputated. About that time it was announced that Mercy Ships was coming to Freetown. He went down for the screening but was not selected because the focus was on the repair of those who lost limbs in the civil war.
Healing
He was very discouraged by the initial answer, but he was encouraged to go back toward the end of the field service. He went back and an opening was available. Dr. Tertius Venter is a Plastic Surgeon on the ship today and served on it when Osman came for surgery.
He was able to free up the limbs and do skin grafts so that Osman could have free use of his arms and legs. Again a long and painful recovery. He went on to finish high school and worked for people earning money for his family after his father died.
He had a friend challenge him that if he believed in God, He would provide an answer rather than have his leg amputated. About that time it was announced that Mercy Ships was coming to Freetown. He went down for the screening but was not selected because the focus was on the repair of those who lost limbs in the civil war.
Healing
He was very discouraged by the initial answer, but he was encouraged to go back toward the end of the field service. He went back and an opening was available. Dr. Tertius Venter is a Plastic Surgeon on the ship today and served on it when Osman came for surgery.
He was able to free up the limbs and do skin grafts so that Osman could have free use of his arms and legs. Again a long and painful recovery. He went on to finish high school and worked for people earning money for his family after his father died.
Serving
He heard the Africa Mercy was once again coming to Sierra Leone 2011. He signed up and was selected as Day Crew working in the physically demanding Engineering department. I was told he did not let them know of his past, he just came to work.
It is there that he heard more about Christ and saw the Jesus movie a number of times to better understand who He is and why He came. He accepted Christ, which could have put him at odds with his family who would have normally disowned him. They love and support him even though they are still Muslim.
He went to Conakry the next year to see if he could get on as a Day Crew member and was accepted. There he trained and became an Able Seaman. He stayed on as regular crew and eventually through training and practical experience became the lead plumber on the ship. Again I am not aware that anyone knew his story or if they did it was not widely shared.
He heard the Africa Mercy was once again coming to Sierra Leone 2011. He signed up and was selected as Day Crew working in the physically demanding Engineering department. I was told he did not let them know of his past, he just came to work.
It is there that he heard more about Christ and saw the Jesus movie a number of times to better understand who He is and why He came. He accepted Christ, which could have put him at odds with his family who would have normally disowned him. They love and support him even though they are still Muslim.
He went to Conakry the next year to see if he could get on as a Day Crew member and was accepted. There he trained and became an Able Seaman. He stayed on as regular crew and eventually through training and practical experience became the lead plumber on the ship. Again I am not aware that anyone knew his story or if they did it was not widely shared.
Giving
He wanted to give back for all that God had done for him so starting in Madagascar in 2013 he designed and fabricated wheelchairs for people who laid on the street and begged because they could not stand. He made 5 that year and quietly distributed them. He has done the same thing for the past 5 field services with Mercy Ships.
I met and got to know him a little because he is so outgoing, positive, and encouraging. After hearing about the wheelchair project from the Director of Finance, Kevin Cook, who was helping him. I asked Kevin how I could help. They were almost done with the fabrication and I didn't have the time to help with the painting. He said he was most concerned about funding for the project because it seemed to be so hit and miss.
He wanted to give back for all that God had done for him so starting in Madagascar in 2013 he designed and fabricated wheelchairs for people who laid on the street and begged because they could not stand. He made 5 that year and quietly distributed them. He has done the same thing for the past 5 field services with Mercy Ships.
I met and got to know him a little because he is so outgoing, positive, and encouraging. After hearing about the wheelchair project from the Director of Finance, Kevin Cook, who was helping him. I asked Kevin how I could help. They were almost done with the fabrication and I didn't have the time to help with the painting. He said he was most concerned about funding for the project because it seemed to be so hit and miss.
About
the same time, I talked with Osman at length when he came in to update
his donor page and get some help improving it. It was there I heard
about his amazing story and realized not many knew about his past as a
patient and why he was so committed to bringing mobility those who lay
on the street begging. I told him his story was a huge blessing to
others on how God works and he needed to share
it more, especially his heart for beggars with no ability to earn
money. It needed to be shared because it is such a blessing on how God
works.
I helped write a brochure for him so the ministry could be publicized and to raise funds. We also updated his donor page to better reflect how God worked in his life. God blessed the work he was doing in a number of ways. I told Ann about him and she did an interview at one of the Community nights about his story and the wheelchair ministry. We put the flyer in the activity book so everyone could learn about what he felt God had him do in each country. As a result, almost overnight his donations from crew members went for a few hundred dollars to over a thousand.
Osman and I became good friends through this process and he needed a new person to help him since Kevin Cook was leaving. I joined Osman and another crew member to start building chairs in Guinea this past year. We worked many Saturdays and I continued to publicize what he was doing to get more crew members involved and help with the work
I helped write a brochure for him so the ministry could be publicized and to raise funds. We also updated his donor page to better reflect how God worked in his life. God blessed the work he was doing in a number of ways. I told Ann about him and she did an interview at one of the Community nights about his story and the wheelchair ministry. We put the flyer in the activity book so everyone could learn about what he felt God had him do in each country. As a result, almost overnight his donations from crew members went for a few hundred dollars to over a thousand.
Osman and I became good friends through this process and he needed a new person to help him since Kevin Cook was leaving. I joined Osman and another crew member to start building chairs in Guinea this past year. We worked many Saturdays and I continued to publicize what he was doing to get more crew members involved and help with the work
Wheelchair Team Guinea 2018-19
With the help of10 crew members team, all 5 wheelchairs were done and given to the people Osman had screened.
We
were blessed to have this occur while the Mercy Ships International
Board was onboard for their meeting. They had the opportunity to share
in the experience created through Osman’s vision.
A Major Life Change
In the spring of that year, Osman complained of leg pains and about the time we were ready to paint the chairs so he went to the Crew Physician about his leg. It was determined that he needed to get expert help and was sent to Cape Town, where Dr. Tertius lives, and where the Mercy Ships South Africa National Director, Brenda van Straten, could sponsor him for a medical visa.
He saw a specialist in Cape Town. His tumors were removed and they grew back, almost over-night. The cancer is very aggressive.
Finally, he had to make the hard decision to have the leg amputated above the knee to prevent grown glands and spreading.
Brenda has been his sponsor, advocate, and champion to the insurance company, the country of South Africa, and to many of us who have helped pitch in. She and several others here in Cape Town such as Trudi Venter and members of both of their churches have been faithful prayer warriors on his behalf.
In the spring of that year, Osman complained of leg pains and about the time we were ready to paint the chairs so he went to the Crew Physician about his leg. It was determined that he needed to get expert help and was sent to Cape Town, where Dr. Tertius lives, and where the Mercy Ships South Africa National Director, Brenda van Straten, could sponsor him for a medical visa.
He saw a specialist in Cape Town. His tumors were removed and they grew back, almost over-night. The cancer is very aggressive.
Finally, he had to make the hard decision to have the leg amputated above the knee to prevent grown glands and spreading.
Brenda has been his sponsor, advocate, and champion to the insurance company, the country of South Africa, and to many of us who have helped pitch in. She and several others here in Cape Town such as Trudi Venter and members of both of their churches have been faithful prayer warriors on his behalf.
God has been so good through this whole thing, especially with helping Osman deal with the loss of his leg.
He also learned that his future with Mercy Ships is not possible (due to Malta maritime regulations) and as a result, he cannot send money home to help his mom and family because of not working on the ship.
He also has the loss of future income earning in Sierra Leone because his leg prevents him from doing plumbing and HVAC work.
That is a lot for one person to go through in 3 short months.
He also learned that his future with Mercy Ships is not possible (due to Malta maritime regulations) and as a result, he cannot send money home to help his mom and family because of not working on the ship.
He also has the loss of future income earning in Sierra Leone because his leg prevents him from doing plumbing and HVAC work.
That is a lot for one person to go through in 3 short months.
God
has provided his insurance for the procedures. Mercy Ships has agreed
to help him get to a point where he can return home. God provided a
prosthetic company that went out of their way to contact the prosthetic
provider in Freetown to understand their capabilities to support a
variety of legs. This way they could help identify a leg that Osman
would use to actively work and it could be serviced there if needed.
God has provided many people in his life that want to help him in some way. God worked in a mighty way with South African Immigration who normally send a person home after they have been stabilized and can travel. He heard that his visa has been approved through Feb 2020, this is almost UNHEARD OF. They also opened the door if he needed more time for treatment and recovery.
He also heard from Brenda that through the efforts of many, the insurance broker TTc has graciously agreed to fully fund a prosthetic leg that will allow him to walk and work in jobs that don’t require ladders or where balance is critical. It is a fully functional leg, nothing fancy, but more than would be available to him through Sierra Leone or basic insurance funding.
God has provided many people in his life that want to help him in some way. God worked in a mighty way with South African Immigration who normally send a person home after they have been stabilized and can travel. He heard that his visa has been approved through Feb 2020, this is almost UNHEARD OF. They also opened the door if he needed more time for treatment and recovery.
He also heard from Brenda that through the efforts of many, the insurance broker TTc has graciously agreed to fully fund a prosthetic leg that will allow him to walk and work in jobs that don’t require ladders or where balance is critical. It is a fully functional leg, nothing fancy, but more than would be available to him through Sierra Leone or basic insurance funding.
New Beginning-With Your Help
First, he has an immediate need for support to pay for the extra parts and maintenance required on his new leg. The prosthetic team here contacted the organization in Sierra Leone to establish what they know and can do.
The group here will train Osman on preventative maintenance, replacement of common pieces that break over time, such as a suction ball. Additional parts are also listed that he will need to take to Sierra Leone to prolong the life of his new leg. The total costs of these components are $8,000.
First, he has an immediate need for support to pay for the extra parts and maintenance required on his new leg. The prosthetic team here contacted the organization in Sierra Leone to establish what they know and can do.
The group here will train Osman on preventative maintenance, replacement of common pieces that break over time, such as a suction ball. Additional parts are also listed that he will need to take to Sierra Leone to prolong the life of his new leg. The total costs of these components are $8,000.
Osman
is full of hope and has a strong desire to continue to serve God, be
responsible as an in-come earner, desires to help his family, especially
his elderly mother and youngest sister. In order to do that he has
identified several career options available to a person who is extremely
mechanically inclined, has very good math skills, and wants a career
that provides stable income in Sierra Leone or that is in demand in another country.
He has identified two career areas that meet the requirements for growth potential and employability in multiple countries and Sierra Leone. They are with the estimated costs of tuition and living expenses:
• Biomedical Technician-an excellent program that Mercy Ships sends the crew to is available in Dallas Texas. Cost with housing $40,000.
• Prosthetic Technician-an excellent program, with the most widely recognized certification, is in Oklahoma. Cost with housing $20,000.
He has identified two career areas that meet the requirements for growth potential and employability in multiple countries and Sierra Leone. They are with the estimated costs of tuition and living expenses:
• Biomedical Technician-an excellent program that Mercy Ships sends the crew to is available in Dallas Texas. Cost with housing $40,000.
• Prosthetic Technician-an excellent program, with the most widely recognized certification, is in Oklahoma. Cost with housing $20,000.
Finally,
Osman wants to seek God’s direction on how to keep the Wheelchair for
Africa program going. It could be in conjunction with Mercy Ships or as
a separate ministry.
He still has a very strong place in his heart for those who cannot earn a living or live life with the same degree of freedom that others have, especially in the poor countries of West Africa. He will be praying about:
• Clear direction
• Help from a team to form a non-profit
• Direction on when/where in the world this might be
• Funding to reproduce the ministry in countries and have them become self-supported as they provide wheelchairs for those in the most need.
He still has a very strong place in his heart for those who cannot earn a living or live life with the same degree of freedom that others have, especially in the poor countries of West Africa. He will be praying about:
• Clear direction
• Help from a team to form a non-profit
• Direction on when/where in the world this might be
• Funding to reproduce the ministry in countries and have them become self-supported as they provide wheelchairs for those in the most need.
How can you help?
1. Pray for Osman as he continues the painful process of preparing to receive and use his new leg.
2. Pray for God’s direction on careers and other alternatives. His foremost desire is to be obedient.
3. Pray about funding and God’s provision.
4. Give what you feel led to provide. This is best done through the Mercy Ship Crew funding site. The address for his donor page is:
https://
5. Post this on your Facebook page and/or LinkedIn pages.
6. Give praise for all that God has done and provided.
This whole thing continues to be “a God thing”, a demonstration of His gracious and caring support of His children.
Thank you for reading through this and for any help you can provide.
If you have questions or have ideas please contact me. My personal email is jon.heinrich3103@gmail.com
1. Pray for Osman as he continues the painful process of preparing to receive and use his new leg.
2. Pray for God’s direction on careers and other alternatives. His foremost desire is to be obedient.
3. Pray about funding and God’s provision.
4. Give what you feel led to provide. This is best done through the Mercy Ship Crew funding site. The address for his donor page is:
https://
5. Post this on your Facebook page and/or LinkedIn pages.
6. Give praise for all that God has done and provided.
This whole thing continues to be “a God thing”, a demonstration of His gracious and caring support of His children.
Thank you for reading through this and for any help you can provide.
If you have questions or have ideas please contact me. My personal email is jon.heinrich3103@gmail.com
Saturday, September 14, 2019
Surgery week one Dakar
Greetings from deck 6.
I am currently sitting on deck six reflecting on my week. The sun is shinning through the window next to me, looking out over the dock. Currently the view is of empty tents and an empty dock. Earlier this week the tents were full of our first surgical patients. Mothers and Fathers, daughters and sons, sisters and brothers, all patiently waiting in the heat of Dakar. Waiting with the one thing we desire to bring to all. Waiting with hope. Each one waiting for their turn with the doctors and nurses to find out if they get the final approval for their surgery. Hope fills the air, and we pray it fills their hearts as well. Slowly, throughout the week, one by one the approvals come, filling the surgery schedule one case at a time. And then, their incredibly brave adventure continues.
Each person is brought up the gangway to world they have never known, filled with people they have never met, with the hope that just maybe it really will be true. Maybe, just maybe they really will get FREE surgery and finally be free from that thing that has plagued them. That thing that has made them feel different, rejected, less than, or an outsider even among those who know and love them.
Each person is brought on board, navigating a maze of hallways and stairways and finally admitted to the hospital. Down, down they go into the belly of the ship, to the hospital deck. A new world. So brave. So many people, machines, tests, and doctors. They are met with open arms, smiles, a reassuring touch and kindness. For some it is a first. To not be stared at , but to see others like themselves. New friends made while waiting together in the tent, or on the bus. They are settled in a bed, given good food to eat and told to wait a little more. But then it happens. Their turn comes.....
They are led, or if they are too small, they are carried down the long passageways to the O.R. door. It must be such a scary moment. It must take such courage and strength to pass through that door. Some do it boldly with a smile on their face, others timidly with a tear on their cheek. With each step, more hope. Could this really be it.
The room is like nothing many have seen before. The large overhead lights, the draped tables, people in gowns and masks. The interpreter in the room becomes their life line.Often the one person in the room who speaks their language. They are laid on a table and reminded what will happen, and then the mask comes down and sleep overtakes them.
When they awake....it is a new world. Sometimes a new battle. A battle of recovery, battles with pain, and battles of disbelief. For hope has paid off. The surgery really did happen. Smiles emerge. burdens are lifted. Hope of a different future rises in their hearts, and in the hearts of those who love them.
This is what it is all about. This makes it all worth it. The hard parts.
Being far from home when hard times come. Being here when you wish you could be there for your friends back home. When friends face loneliness, hurricanes, and even death. It is in those painful moments that I must cling to hope of my own. The hope that it will all be worth it. That lives are changing. That seeds are planted. That God will have his way. That is where I place my hope. In God. In God I will trust.
I will trust him for the patients that have come, and for the many that have not yet arrived. I will trust him for their souls. I will trust that he can use the smallest things. A kind word, a look, a smile or a hug. I will trust that he can help me through the hard days with my own patients. Through the fevers, the vomiting and the stitches. I will trust that when I feel like I am at the end of myself and I don't know if I can take another step, HE will hold onto me. HE has a plan for it all. He loves them all more that I do. He is the author of Hope. And HE alone will finish it all.To Him alone be the glory.
I am currently sitting on deck six reflecting on my week. The sun is shinning through the window next to me, looking out over the dock. Currently the view is of empty tents and an empty dock. Earlier this week the tents were full of our first surgical patients. Mothers and Fathers, daughters and sons, sisters and brothers, all patiently waiting in the heat of Dakar. Waiting with the one thing we desire to bring to all. Waiting with hope. Each one waiting for their turn with the doctors and nurses to find out if they get the final approval for their surgery. Hope fills the air, and we pray it fills their hearts as well. Slowly, throughout the week, one by one the approvals come, filling the surgery schedule one case at a time. And then, their incredibly brave adventure continues.
Each person is brought up the gangway to world they have never known, filled with people they have never met, with the hope that just maybe it really will be true. Maybe, just maybe they really will get FREE surgery and finally be free from that thing that has plagued them. That thing that has made them feel different, rejected, less than, or an outsider even among those who know and love them.
Each person is brought on board, navigating a maze of hallways and stairways and finally admitted to the hospital. Down, down they go into the belly of the ship, to the hospital deck. A new world. So brave. So many people, machines, tests, and doctors. They are met with open arms, smiles, a reassuring touch and kindness. For some it is a first. To not be stared at , but to see others like themselves. New friends made while waiting together in the tent, or on the bus. They are settled in a bed, given good food to eat and told to wait a little more. But then it happens. Their turn comes.....
They are led, or if they are too small, they are carried down the long passageways to the O.R. door. It must be such a scary moment. It must take such courage and strength to pass through that door. Some do it boldly with a smile on their face, others timidly with a tear on their cheek. With each step, more hope. Could this really be it.
The room is like nothing many have seen before. The large overhead lights, the draped tables, people in gowns and masks. The interpreter in the room becomes their life line.Often the one person in the room who speaks their language. They are laid on a table and reminded what will happen, and then the mask comes down and sleep overtakes them.
When they awake....it is a new world. Sometimes a new battle. A battle of recovery, battles with pain, and battles of disbelief. For hope has paid off. The surgery really did happen. Smiles emerge. burdens are lifted. Hope of a different future rises in their hearts, and in the hearts of those who love them.
This is what it is all about. This makes it all worth it. The hard parts.
Being far from home when hard times come. Being here when you wish you could be there for your friends back home. When friends face loneliness, hurricanes, and even death. It is in those painful moments that I must cling to hope of my own. The hope that it will all be worth it. That lives are changing. That seeds are planted. That God will have his way. That is where I place my hope. In God. In God I will trust.
I will trust him for the patients that have come, and for the many that have not yet arrived. I will trust him for their souls. I will trust that he can use the smallest things. A kind word, a look, a smile or a hug. I will trust that he can help me through the hard days with my own patients. Through the fevers, the vomiting and the stitches. I will trust that when I feel like I am at the end of myself and I don't know if I can take another step, HE will hold onto me. HE has a plan for it all. He loves them all more that I do. He is the author of Hope. And HE alone will finish it all.To Him alone be the glory.
Saturday, July 27, 2019
Two homes
Greetings from Las Palmas Gran Canaria.
I arrived safely back on ship nearly a week ago now. It has been a busy week of unpacking, getting brought up to speed on the health of the crew, seeing a bit of what the island has to offer, and catching up with friends.
I arrived Saturday after nearly 2 days of travel. After little to no sleep on the planes I was quite ready to sleep. However, since I arrived at 2 in the afternoon, I forced myself to stay awake and went to bed at a normal bedtime for this time zone. I was able to sleep straight through the night and has experienced very little jet lag as a result. One very nice surprise for me was a bunk change. Sadly one of my cabin mates will be leaving in a few weeks, so she decided to switch bunks with me knowing I wanted the back space of the cabin. So when I arrived she had already moved and it was empty and ready for me to move in. What does that mean for me....it means a little more space, a little more privacy, and best of all......a window! I am so excited. I finally have a space with a window. It lets in so much natural light and is just wonderful. I may even have to get a plant.
I also arrived to 2 boxes of Christmas presents that my sister sent in January that had finally made there way to the ship. The arrived in April after I left and have been waiting for me. What fun. Christmas in July!!
This week I spent time with the outgoing nurse Jacqui, who has been caring for the crew during the last sail and shipyard. She brought me up to speed on all I needed to know. The bumps and bruises that have occurred and what might be ahead. She has done a great job caring for the crew. I am so thankful she was here so I could go to the states and take care of things.
Some of my week was spent seeing a bit of Las Palmas. The waterfront here is really lovely and has a long boardwalk that is several miles long. Full of shops, restaurants and people of all walks of life. It is a great place to sit and enjoy the breeze coming in off the ocean, people watch, or savor the incredible flavors of gelato as you stroll down the brick lined promenade.The other night I stood and watched as a man used a rope to make hundreds of soap bubbles that blew across the boardwalk in the cool evening breeze. It was a show stopper as children of all ages stopped and watched in delight as the bubbles drifted down the boardwalk. It didn't matter the age, size, race or religion, as many stopped with the same smile of delight, and often ran to catch the bubbles. I was unable to catch the smiles but a friend managed to catch the beauty of the bubbles along the building as seen below. It has defiantly made the off hours enjoyable.
 |
| The boardwalk in Las Palmas covered in bubbles |
Finally this week has been about catching up with friends I have not seen for months. Sharing coffees, meals, and walks near the ocean. Talking about the good things and the hard things of life. What did you do this summer has been a frequent conversation, followed often by the real, so how are you doing? How are things with you and the Lord. It has felt like coming home.Yesterday the families came home. Now that the ship is in the water, the kids are allowed back on board and so yesterday was home coming. Once again you hear the sound of children, laughing, crying, playing. Some of them happy to see you and some of them shyly hiding behind moms legs. All of them making it feel more like home.
 |
| Coffee on the boardwalk with Jen |
It never ceases to amaze me how two places on opposite sides of the world, with completely different cultures ,and completely different people can both feel like home. Leaving Virginia was hard. It felt like leaving home. Leaving what is familiar and comfortable and easy. The people I love.People who spent all Spring and most of the summer pouring their love and kindness out on me.
 |
| Milkshakes with Mom at the Pink Cadillac |
 |
| Sandstone falls with my sister Christy |
 |
| Mt Airy with my good friend Patty |
 |
| Summer Camp with the gang |
And yet stepping on the ship immediately feels like coming home. It feels right, familiar, and everywhere I turn is someone I love doing something I admire, for no other reason than their love of the Lord. Oh how I love this place. The first week has been filled with watching friends work hard, in the heat, with no air conditioning, walking up 72 steps on scaffolding to enter a hot ship and give their all. Three lovely kind men met me at the bottom the day I arrived and carried my three 50 pound bags (23kg) all the way to top for me.
 |
| The tower of terror...72 steps up the scaffolding to enter the ship in dry dock. |
These volunteers in shipyard are in class all their own. Many will never see Africa, will never see the patients they are working so hard to prepare for. Yet they work with a drive and a passion that is so admirable. Some skip meals, others skip fun trips to town, others work late into the night, so one more thing can be finished, one more goal accomplished, or so the next thing can be started, all with the patients in mind. This ship, this organization, this pack of people that God has called together from around the world is just amazing. I still have to pinch myself that I get to be a part of it. Thank you all for helping me do that! In the end I can truly say....there really is no place like home.
Monday, May 20, 2019
Koumba
For the last 16 years, Koumba has been serving in her village, bringing new life into the world as a midwife.
The thirty-nine-year-old estimates that in the years she’s been working, she’s helped to birth over 100 babies — some of whom she’s watched grow up and leave the village in search of higher education and job opportunities.
Her journey began when Guinean doctors from bigger cities came to her village with the goal of passing on medical training to several locals. She, along with two other women, received free training in the art of midwifery — a gift that she says changed the direction of her life. She went on to run a clinic, the only one in her village, where she became the go-to woman for all childbirth-related issues.
Koumba takes great pride and fulfillment in her role, and in her ability to pass on her training to the next generation of midwives. With six children of her own, it’s easy to tell that Koumba’s love for others runs deep and that she wears her compassionate heart on her sleeve.
“I don't really make any money, but I'm given a better gift. I help mothers give birth,” Koumba said. “When I see a mother holding her healthy baby, it's a very big blessing for me.”
But about five years ago, Koumba’s future took an unexpected shift when she noticed a lump starting to develop on her neck. It continued to grow, eventually evolving into a large goiter and constricting her airways.
Even with her years of medical experience, Koumba couldn’t access the surgical care she needed. Without an operation, she was fearful that she might be forced to face an early death. Her growing goiter made it more difficult for Koumba to do the work she loved as she grew tired and breathless more easily.
She remained endlessly positive in the face of her fear, a feat that she mainly credits to her husband.
“He would always tell me, ‘We’re going to be all right. God will help us. Don’t be afraid,’” she said.
When they heard that Mercy Ships was coming to Guinea, Koumba was confident that this was the answer to her family’s long-time prayer.
While waiting on the dock to board the Africa Mercy, Koumba was thrilled — but her joy revolved not around herself, but her fellow villagers back home.
“My whole village is praying for me — they all want me to get healed
"When I see myself in the mirror, I see peace. I'm so beautiful," she said.
During her time in the wards, Koumba would get up from her bed and dance — laughing and celebrating. The dancing never really stopped and her joy continued to shine throughout her time on the ship, culminating in a “thank you” speech on her last day.
"This surgery has brought me so much happiness,” she said. “I can move without pain now. When I go back to the village, I'll be able to work more than before… I gave help, and I received help. This is happiness."
Her whole village is waiting for her return, and Koumba’s not going to disappoint them. She’d planned her homecoming even before walking up the gangway. Koumba plans on buying a new dress and surprising everyone.
Once the dust settles around her big return, Koumba is looking forward to returning to her calling. She wants to continue bringing new life into the world, and while she works, Koumba says she’ll never tire of telling her story.
Written by Rose Talbot
Photography by Shawn Thompson
Edited by Haley Hoar
Used with permission from Mercy Ships
The thirty-nine-year-old estimates that in the years she’s been working, she’s helped to birth over 100 babies — some of whom she’s watched grow up and leave the village in search of higher education and job opportunities.
Her journey began when Guinean doctors from bigger cities came to her village with the goal of passing on medical training to several locals. She, along with two other women, received free training in the art of midwifery — a gift that she says changed the direction of her life. She went on to run a clinic, the only one in her village, where she became the go-to woman for all childbirth-related issues.
Koumba takes great pride and fulfillment in her role, and in her ability to pass on her training to the next generation of midwives. With six children of her own, it’s easy to tell that Koumba’s love for others runs deep and that she wears her compassionate heart on her sleeve.
“I don't really make any money, but I'm given a better gift. I help mothers give birth,” Koumba said. “When I see a mother holding her healthy baby, it's a very big blessing for me.”
But about five years ago, Koumba’s future took an unexpected shift when she noticed a lump starting to develop on her neck. It continued to grow, eventually evolving into a large goiter and constricting her airways.
Even with her years of medical experience, Koumba couldn’t access the surgical care she needed. Without an operation, she was fearful that she might be forced to face an early death. Her growing goiter made it more difficult for Koumba to do the work she loved as she grew tired and breathless more easily.
She remained endlessly positive in the face of her fear, a feat that she mainly credits to her husband.
“He would always tell me, ‘We’re going to be all right. God will help us. Don’t be afraid,’” she said.
When they heard that Mercy Ships was coming to Guinea, Koumba was confident that this was the answer to her family’s long-time prayer.
While waiting on the dock to board the Africa Mercy, Koumba was thrilled — but her joy revolved not around herself, but her fellow villagers back home.
“My whole village is praying for me — they all want me to get healed
"When I see myself in the mirror, I see peace. I'm so beautiful," she said.
During her time in the wards, Koumba would get up from her bed and dance — laughing and celebrating. The dancing never really stopped and her joy continued to shine throughout her time on the ship, culminating in a “thank you” speech on her last day.
"This surgery has brought me so much happiness,” she said. “I can move without pain now. When I go back to the village, I'll be able to work more than before… I gave help, and I received help. This is happiness."
Her whole village is waiting for her return, and Koumba’s not going to disappoint them. She’d planned her homecoming even before walking up the gangway. Koumba plans on buying a new dress and surprising everyone.
Once the dust settles around her big return, Koumba is looking forward to returning to her calling. She wants to continue bringing new life into the world, and while she works, Koumba says she’ll never tire of telling her story.
Written by Rose Talbot
Photography by Shawn Thompson
Edited by Haley Hoar
Used with permission from Mercy Ships
Thursday, April 18, 2019
Valerie & Edith
So I have been in the states for almost two weeks now. Time is going by so quickly. It has been a time of blessing. Time spent visiting churches and small groups. Being welcomed by so many and feeling loved. Indulging in a few of my favorite foods. Today I was able to enjoy the simple pleasure of mowing the grass. A first in quite some time.
Although I am here in Virginia, a large part of my heart remains in Guinea. Over there the opportunity to help others continues. Facial tumors are being removed, leaky bladders are being repaired, and heart and souls are being transformed by the love and compassion of God. It is Easter week. A time to reflect on Christ. On who he is, why he came, and what that means to my everday life. And what that means for yours as well. Who do you say he is?
I hope this week you spend some time answering those questions in your heart. Do you know how much his coming really meant. Do you know the transformation power that is available to us because of his choice? I pray you do. I know that today, in Guinea, because of Christ and he command to love others, there are some that do. Sometimes one of the stories here really just hits you a little harder than some of the others.
This is one of those stories. I am thankful for the video to help you see better than my words could. clink on the link below for a short video.
Thank you to all of you that help make this story possible .
Video used with permission from Mercy Ships.
Thank you for your ongoing prayers for me as well. I love you.
Although I am here in Virginia, a large part of my heart remains in Guinea. Over there the opportunity to help others continues. Facial tumors are being removed, leaky bladders are being repaired, and heart and souls are being transformed by the love and compassion of God. It is Easter week. A time to reflect on Christ. On who he is, why he came, and what that means to my everday life. And what that means for yours as well. Who do you say he is?
I hope this week you spend some time answering those questions in your heart. Do you know how much his coming really meant. Do you know the transformation power that is available to us because of his choice? I pray you do. I know that today, in Guinea, because of Christ and he command to love others, there are some that do. Sometimes one of the stories here really just hits you a little harder than some of the others.
This is one of those stories. I am thankful for the video to help you see better than my words could. clink on the link below for a short video.
Thank you to all of you that help make this story possible .
Video used with permission from Mercy Ships.
Thank you for your ongoing prayers for me as well. I love you.
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Julienne
The story of Julienne
Thank you for being part of her story.
this video used with permission from Mercy Ships.
Special thanks to the talent that made it possible for us all to see part of the story.
Saturday, February 16, 2019
Hope
So, I was not sure what I wanted to blog about today. How real should one get? How much of yourself to you expose? But then we are called to share life together. To be real together.
As wonderful as the ship is, we are flawed, broken people. Forgiven, but stilled flawed. We will never do everything right. We bump up against each others edges. We irritate, we comfort. We learn from each other. We fall short. There will never be enough time, enough ships, enough people or enough resources to meet all the need. Because of that, it is important to be able to think about hope.
Many of our patients spend a large portion of their lives in longing. Longing to be whole. Longing to be included. Longing to not be rejected, or despised. For different reasons, many experience isolation due to their medical problems. People tell them they are not welcome, they are cursed, that they or one they love should just die, or worse be killed.
As wonderful as the ship is, we are flawed, broken people. Forgiven, but stilled flawed. We will never do everything right. We bump up against each others edges. We irritate, we comfort. We learn from each other. We fall short. There will never be enough time, enough ships, enough people or enough resources to meet all the need. Because of that, it is important to be able to think about hope.
Many of our patients spend a large portion of their lives in longing. Longing to be whole. Longing to be included. Longing to not be rejected, or despised. For different reasons, many experience isolation due to their medical problems. People tell them they are not welcome, they are cursed, that they or one they love should just die, or worse be killed.
Enter Jesus
From the moment they arrive it is our goal to introduce our patients to one who knows exactly how they feel.
3 He was despised and rejected by mankind,
a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.
Like one from whom people hide their faces
he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Isaiah 53:3
a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.
Like one from whom people hide their faces
he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Isaiah 53:3
Long before the first cut of the scalpel, or the first bandage change, our patients begin to experience the love of Christ flowing through these flawed vessels. Through the broken cracks, the light shines through. For most, it is a light they have never seen. It is surprising, unexpected and even hard to believe. They experience someone looking them in eye, reaching out to touch them, kindness, compassion, and yes even love. Often they become aware Slowly the guard comes down, hearts open and smiles appear. Slowly hope is born. Hope for something different. Hope for a different look. Hope for a different walk. Hope for a different life. And sometimes by God's grace alone, hope for a different eternity.
Hope is so important. Not only for our patients but for us as well. It is likely that each of us have something we are hoping for. It may be a new job, a spouse, a child or something only known to your and God. I want to encourage you to keep hoping. God has not forgotten you. This week I am studying in Genesis and have been reminded that Sarah waiting 90 years to be a mother. Even years after God promised her motherhood she waited. She got tired of waiting. She tried it her own way with not the best results. In the end, God was faithful. Friends, do not give up, and do not try to resolve it your way. Trust God. He has a plan. You are part of that plan.
I was reminded this week of my own deferred hope. Something that has been making my heart sick. Waiting for years for someone I love to choose to follow God. To surrender to Him, to see His way is the only way worth walking. How I long for it, and wait, and wait and wait. All the circumstances around me say it will not happen. But God. He reminds me of hope. He renewed my hope this week through a friend who has been waiting on the same desire. We spent an afternoon sharing our hearts, our fears, and our longings for our loved ones.Years of wishing and wanting and disappointment. Both feeling a bit sad and maybe a little hopeless, a little sick. But then God......in the way only He can, shows up. Just a few hours later, about 12 to be exact, she was able to share with me that on that very night, her loved one stepped into the kingdom of eternity. The walls came down, the seed sprouted and belief and faith were born in a new heart. Praise God. I am so thankful. Thankful for the joy that my friend and her loved one can now share. Thankful for her hope fulfilled. Thankful that another soul knows the one who made them. And I am truly thankful that the Lord let me have a glimpse and a reminder that it is never too late. That He is on the throne. That we can put all our hope in Him. I will keep praying and keep hoping.
Praying for you and yours.
Saturday, January 19, 2019
No pictures please
This week has been crazy busy. Lots of people with colds and sinus stuff. Not surprising as it is the time of year that the Harmattan is blowing. Fortunately we don't get it here very bad, but there is a lot of dust in the air and it is dry season as well. Many suffering from allergies as well. My real challenge has been all the other crazy things that have coming through the clinic. It has kept us on our toes to say the least.In the last couple of weeks I have been dealing with many strange things. Wounds that don't want to heal , that seem simple but just don't heal. Infections that are resistant to medications, broken bones from sports injuries, torn muscles in healthy young people,someone who was hit by a motorcycle and stroke like symptoms in a young healthy 30 year old. There have been many other strange things as well. I ask for your healing prayers for all of these and more. I also ask you to pray for me and the Crew Physician Alex as we strive to care for all of these in a challenging environment that sometimes lacks the tools we are accustom to .
On a higher note this week I had a very unique opportunity to go and tour the American Embassy here. Due to our government shut down it was a scaled down version with no parties or frills, but I enjoyed it very much. A group of about 40-50 of us took 1/2 a day off and caravaned to the Embassy. Security was high and impressive as we passed through multiple layers of security to enter the compound. For obvious reasons I will not share the details of that.
Our host we very welcoming and apologized for not being able to host us properly due to the government shut down. We did however get to hear from many of the different people working there, and learn about what they do and why they do it.
We heard from representatives from the Military, CDC, USAID, Security, and others. All in all about 10 different agencies that interact within the embassy. We learned more about the history of Guinea and how young the current government is and how well it is doing in spite of challenging circumstances. It was very encouraging. We learned that the some of the doctors and nurses that were trained by the US and others during the Ebola Crisis here, are now in Democratic Republic of Congo helping and teaching others with the current Ebola Crisis there. It made me proud to know that America has been part of helping there.
It was also nice, if even for a few hours, to feel like I was home. Inside the Embassy it felt like you were in America, with all things familiar. The building itself, the light fixtures, the furnishings, the carpet, all felt familiar and did not look or feel like what you normally see here in Africa. I was also proud to note that it was all done in simple taste, not over done or showy. We were allowed to see the office of the American Ambassador who did not happen to be there, and even His office was very simple and humble. It made me proud in a place where government power and money is often abused and used for ones own interest.
Different things stood out to different people as we chatted about it after our visit. Little things that looked like home. Art on the walls. Marines in uniform standing their posts. carpet on the floors. Pictures of America on a wall in the back of the room. A bathroom sign with a wheelchair and braille on it just like home. Pictures of the president and vice president hanging the wall. And of course, flying high in the center of the courtyard, flapping perfectly in a gentle breeze, the American flag. That was one of my good moments too.
Sadly due to security we were not allowed to take pictures, so you will just have to imagine. But it was a neat trip and I feel honored to have been allowed such a privilege.
Until next time, thanks for your prayers and support. Keep praying. This surgery block will be large head and neck surgeries and plastic surgeries. Pray for the surgeons, the patients and their families.
On a higher note this week I had a very unique opportunity to go and tour the American Embassy here. Due to our government shut down it was a scaled down version with no parties or frills, but I enjoyed it very much. A group of about 40-50 of us took 1/2 a day off and caravaned to the Embassy. Security was high and impressive as we passed through multiple layers of security to enter the compound. For obvious reasons I will not share the details of that.
Our host we very welcoming and apologized for not being able to host us properly due to the government shut down. We did however get to hear from many of the different people working there, and learn about what they do and why they do it.
We heard from representatives from the Military, CDC, USAID, Security, and others. All in all about 10 different agencies that interact within the embassy. We learned more about the history of Guinea and how young the current government is and how well it is doing in spite of challenging circumstances. It was very encouraging. We learned that the some of the doctors and nurses that were trained by the US and others during the Ebola Crisis here, are now in Democratic Republic of Congo helping and teaching others with the current Ebola Crisis there. It made me proud to know that America has been part of helping there.
It was also nice, if even for a few hours, to feel like I was home. Inside the Embassy it felt like you were in America, with all things familiar. The building itself, the light fixtures, the furnishings, the carpet, all felt familiar and did not look or feel like what you normally see here in Africa. I was also proud to note that it was all done in simple taste, not over done or showy. We were allowed to see the office of the American Ambassador who did not happen to be there, and even His office was very simple and humble. It made me proud in a place where government power and money is often abused and used for ones own interest.
Different things stood out to different people as we chatted about it after our visit. Little things that looked like home. Art on the walls. Marines in uniform standing their posts. carpet on the floors. Pictures of America on a wall in the back of the room. A bathroom sign with a wheelchair and braille on it just like home. Pictures of the president and vice president hanging the wall. And of course, flying high in the center of the courtyard, flapping perfectly in a gentle breeze, the American flag. That was one of my good moments too.
Sadly due to security we were not allowed to take pictures, so you will just have to imagine. But it was a neat trip and I feel honored to have been allowed such a privilege.
Until next time, thanks for your prayers and support. Keep praying. This surgery block will be large head and neck surgeries and plastic surgeries. Pray for the surgeons, the patients and their families.
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
Traveling North
Recently I took a trip up North for a weekend away. It was a wonderful trip that allowed me time with friends, a chance to relax, and to see more of what Mercy Ships is involved in.
The trip took 5 hours by car to arrive at our destination. We stayed at a small hotel in Kindia. The drive was filled with lots of traffic, pot holes that could swallow a small car, and the love and laughter of good friends.
As we left the city and the traffic one would expect to be able to drive faster and enjoy the freedom of the open road. However, here in Guinea as you leave the city the roads become peppered with large potholes that make travel slow, bumpy and sometimes dangerous. I was thankful for the skills and caution of our hired driver who skillfully avoided many of the hazards. This often included vehicles traveling towards you on the wrong side of the road as they attempted to avoid potholes on their side of the road. In the end we arrived quite safe and sound and with good stories of the sites along the way.
Suffice to say things are quite different here in Africa. It was not uncommon to see motorcycles driving down the road, weaving in and out of traffic with only inches to spare. Most often the drivers do not have helmets and often carrying multiple passengers. I think the record here is 5 adults on one motorcycle. It is very common to see families travel this way, including mom and dad a several small children. Sometimes even infants in moms arms. Child seats are pretty much non existent here. Like I said quite different.
Another thing you see is animals. Lots of animals. By the road and in the road, and you better not hit them. It is understood that fences do not really happen here and livestock can wander to wherever the next grazing spot might be found. So, the road will often contain goats, sheep, or cattle. They may or may not be accompanied by young shepherds.There is also the occasional chicken or duck in the road. So they become yet another obstacle in the road to be avoided. Most of them seem to know that the cars and motorcycles are dangerous and mostly stay out of the way, mostly.
There are also very few rules for driving. Lane markers are really not there and if they are they are really more of a suggestion. It is not uncommon for cars and motorcycles to be traveling the wrong way and headed at you on your side of the road in an attempt to avoid heavy traffic on their side of the road. All of this together adds up slow driving. So our trip north which is 133 kilometers (82 miles) took 5 hours. This is Africa.
I hope I don't sound like I am complaining. Just trying to give you a picture of what it is like here. The trip was well worth it . The reward was 2 days in a nice, quiet, inexpensive hotel. It was inside a walled compound so reasonably safe, and had a restaurant on premises. I shared a room with a friend from the ship, which turned out to mean we also shared a bed. We were thankful that it was a King size and we had plenty of room for both of us. Our room was quite spacious and we had a mosquito net so we slept quite soundly without fear of little visitors in the night.
Our meals were quite nice. Very affordable, delicious and I was even able to order my own meal in French. Learning French has proved to be quite difficult for me but I continue to try and am learning a little. I was please when I got my food and it was actually what I thought I had ordered. Success! Dinner was filet de poisson and palm fritte ( fish and chips.)
Breakfast was Cafe' Ole, Pan and omelette. ( Coffee with milk, bread and omelette. All quite delicious.
The next two days were spent exploring the local area. There are several different waterfalls in the area and we were able to visit two of them. The first one had a pool at the bottom that was very shallow, but the falls were quite lovely. We spent several hours there enjoying the sound of the water, the jungle and soaking in some sunshine.
The second waterfall was much larger and had several pools large enough for swimming. The water was quite cool and a bit of shock when you first jumped in. We had a lot of fun swimming and splashing around. It was nice to get away from our responsibilities for a while and just relax. Lunch followed at a little local restaurant nestled in the trees next to the river. We had more fish and cold drinks and great conversation with our driver. He spoke great English and talked to us about his country, his family and we shared about the ship. It was a really great day.
We returned to the ship in the same way traffic, potholes and livestock oh my...This time we made it in four hours which was pretty amazing as we traveled back on New years eve. The traffic in town was really crazy but our driver delivered us safely back. We had one more day to rest as the New Year was wrung in on the ship. We had open mic night in the cafe and a dance party in between acts. The new year came with fireworks in town that could be seen from deck 8. At least that is what I heard, as I was in my bed by 10pm bringing the new year in deep in sleep. :)
We did have a side trip to the agriculture site while in Kindia, but that is a story for another day.....
Happy New Year.
The trip took 5 hours by car to arrive at our destination. We stayed at a small hotel in Kindia. The drive was filled with lots of traffic, pot holes that could swallow a small car, and the love and laughter of good friends.
As we left the city and the traffic one would expect to be able to drive faster and enjoy the freedom of the open road. However, here in Guinea as you leave the city the roads become peppered with large potholes that make travel slow, bumpy and sometimes dangerous. I was thankful for the skills and caution of our hired driver who skillfully avoided many of the hazards. This often included vehicles traveling towards you on the wrong side of the road as they attempted to avoid potholes on their side of the road. In the end we arrived quite safe and sound and with good stories of the sites along the way.
 |
| Main lanes of highway leaving town |
Suffice to say things are quite different here in Africa. It was not uncommon to see motorcycles driving down the road, weaving in and out of traffic with only inches to spare. Most often the drivers do not have helmets and often carrying multiple passengers. I think the record here is 5 adults on one motorcycle. It is very common to see families travel this way, including mom and dad a several small children. Sometimes even infants in moms arms. Child seats are pretty much non existent here. Like I said quite different.
 |
| Photo by Marina Schimd |
 |
| Photo by Marina Schmid |
 |
| Photo by Marina Schmid |
Another thing you see is animals. Lots of animals. By the road and in the road, and you better not hit them. It is understood that fences do not really happen here and livestock can wander to wherever the next grazing spot might be found. So, the road will often contain goats, sheep, or cattle. They may or may not be accompanied by young shepherds.There is also the occasional chicken or duck in the road. So they become yet another obstacle in the road to be avoided. Most of them seem to know that the cars and motorcycles are dangerous and mostly stay out of the way, mostly.
There are also very few rules for driving. Lane markers are really not there and if they are they are really more of a suggestion. It is not uncommon for cars and motorcycles to be traveling the wrong way and headed at you on your side of the road in an attempt to avoid heavy traffic on their side of the road. All of this together adds up slow driving. So our trip north which is 133 kilometers (82 miles) took 5 hours. This is Africa.
I hope I don't sound like I am complaining. Just trying to give you a picture of what it is like here. The trip was well worth it . The reward was 2 days in a nice, quiet, inexpensive hotel. It was inside a walled compound so reasonably safe, and had a restaurant on premises. I shared a room with a friend from the ship, which turned out to mean we also shared a bed. We were thankful that it was a King size and we had plenty of room for both of us. Our room was quite spacious and we had a mosquito net so we slept quite soundly without fear of little visitors in the night.
 |
| comfy sleep |
 |
| roomy bathroom |
 |
| headed to my room |
Our meals were quite nice. Very affordable, delicious and I was even able to order my own meal in French. Learning French has proved to be quite difficult for me but I continue to try and am learning a little. I was please when I got my food and it was actually what I thought I had ordered. Success! Dinner was filet de poisson and palm fritte ( fish and chips.)
Breakfast was Cafe' Ole, Pan and omelette. ( Coffee with milk, bread and omelette. All quite delicious.
 |
| a nice place to eat at the end of the day |
The next two days were spent exploring the local area. There are several different waterfalls in the area and we were able to visit two of them. The first one had a pool at the bottom that was very shallow, but the falls were quite lovely. We spent several hours there enjoying the sound of the water, the jungle and soaking in some sunshine.
 |
| Bride's veil falls Kindia |
 |
| Bride's Veil Falls |
 |
| Me at Bride's Veil falls |
 |
| Shallow enough to walk all the way across |
The second waterfall was much larger and had several pools large enough for swimming. The water was quite cool and a bit of shock when you first jumped in. We had a lot of fun swimming and splashing around. It was nice to get away from our responsibilities for a while and just relax. Lunch followed at a little local restaurant nestled in the trees next to the river. We had more fish and cold drinks and great conversation with our driver. He spoke great English and talked to us about his country, his family and we shared about the ship. It was a really great day.
 | |
| My onboarding buddies and me in the pools |
 |
| a little lunch in the trees? |
 |
| A peaceful lunch next to the river |
 |
| He leads me beside still waters |
We returned to the ship in the same way traffic, potholes and livestock oh my...This time we made it in four hours which was pretty amazing as we traveled back on New years eve. The traffic in town was really crazy but our driver delivered us safely back. We had one more day to rest as the New Year was wrung in on the ship. We had open mic night in the cafe and a dance party in between acts. The new year came with fireworks in town that could be seen from deck 8. At least that is what I heard, as I was in my bed by 10pm bringing the new year in deep in sleep. :)
We did have a side trip to the agriculture site while in Kindia, but that is a story for another day.....
Happy New Year.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)