Quick update from the team

Hey all,
Team #4, missing only five members due to weather, has arrived... or at least that is the rumor the guys heard. :) Still waiting to meet them.

Darrin, Bradley and Rob have the overnight shift tonight with four nurses.

Overall, today has been a little quieter. The team is very tired and looking forward to coming home. [And we are all ready to have you here!!!] There were two healthy babies born today, just normal, old childbirth. Rob said taking care of a healthy newborn was a nice change of pace.

Thank you everyone for the prayers. They keep the team going. God has been so faithful through this trip to provide energy, words of encouragement, strength and wisdom. Three days to go!!!

A message to NCBM #3

NCBM Medical Team #3

Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart... God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus.
I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation-the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ-for this will bring much glory and praise to God. (Phil 1:3-11, NLT)

From the gang in Clayton, NC

From Nathan, the wonderful big brother

From Ellie, just after a face plant in the snow

From Maceon, staying warm in the mountains

From Amanda and Maceon, with love and a hug

(he's so cute he had to have two pictures)

From Ben, sending you thoughts of cooler weather

From Theresa, with love

And from the rest of your family here in the States

(couldn't get pics from everyone).

We all love you. We are so proud of what you are doing there.

And we pray that God's love, power and strength

will flow through you and sustain you these last few days.

Amen

Prayer requests from the medical team.

Hello,

If you're new to this blog, I am sharing the journey of a medical relief team in Haiti (including my dear husband). They send updates and prayer requests that I pass along to the world through this blog. Please, if this post touches your heart, share it with others and ask them to join in prayer for these brave volunteers and the people of Haiti.

Thank you.

Well today was our busiest day yet.

Started off the day with a lady who was 2 months post delivery of child and now she has terrible cardiomyopathy and we had her on Dopamine and Dobutamine and there are no IV pumps or cardiac monitors. Wow! We ended up shipping her out. She had no blood pressure and was dying in front... of my eyes. I sure hope she makes it.

The day deteriorated from there and it was full when I left.

We had another patient that had tetanus. I have always heard of it and given shots to prevent it, but now I have seen it. He may not make it til morning when meds are supposed to arrive from the States to help him. he already stopped breathing once and we got him back by bagging him, and the doctor was ready to intubatebut there is not a ventilator that works. We had a new one shipped in today, but it did not arrive with all the tubes and equipment needed to run it. All I can think of is I don't know how to set up a vent. and the lab does not do ABG's, and we don't have any Resp. Therapist.

I drew lab work today and took it to the poor over worked, over whelmed lab tech and the doctor had ordered a magnesium level and the lab tech said no, no we can not do magnesium. We have very limited test available. We are in a 3rd world hosp that still can only do so much.

Please also lift up this team. The medical needs are overwhelming, yet their heart is to share the love of Jesus when they can. They are exhausted from the hours, the intense environment, the overwhelming needs that they can't possibly meet. Pray that they are able to share Jesus' love and that their hearts remain open to the opportunities God lays before them.

Amen

NCBM #3 Update - Day 6

Team update from Sheryl Cuppy (ER Nurse at Haywood Regional Hospital)

Hello, all is well here. I have so many experiences to share. It is so busy, but I am enjoying it. We are seeing a lot of everything. today we intubated a 1 yr old with pneumonia and shipped him out. Yesterday I had a MVA rollover trauma who was 18 yrs old. He got a chest tube and last night he was shipped to the USS Comfort for ruptured diaphram and a closed head injury.
The x-ray dept is a one room xr machine, and then they have to hand develop the film. NO CT's or anything else. The laboratory is a little room with 2 or 3 microscopes and it is so old fashioned. We have to hand label all the specimens (and that is not many because they can only do certain test) and take them to the lab, and then in a few hours go back to get a hand written report. The lab is being run by the Haitian women who worked here before and today I asked them if they were over whelmed and the answer was a resounding YES. they are not used to this many test. On wednesday we did a cardiac echo with a very old vaginal OB ultrasound. We got to see what we needed to see about the pts heart, and then later some other doctor asked what the pts Ejection Fraction was!!!! I just looked at him. I wanted to say come on buddy, we are in a 3rd world country with machinery that came over on the Mayflower.

Anyway, we are having a good time. We are safe. They take good care of us here. Feeding us well. We are taken by bus right to the front door and picked up and brought back to the Baptist compound. The Haitians ...are very appreciative and very nice. Everyone is so grateful.

My thoughts .....
I think the plane ride home is when the team is going to start reflecting and becoming depressed..... please ask for prayers that they are able to cope with all that they have seen and done and not have been able to do.....

AND I thank God that he put the thought in Brad's mind to take that laptop and for having the friend call him ON THE WAY TO THE AIRPORT to recommend Skype..... and we think we don't see God in action?? Only if we are not paying attention!!

Haiti Update from Rob

We did get 300 gal of feul. We use 200 a day. Keep praying about that one.

I think the horrible living conditions are the main cause of the illnesses. Many are sleeping in the open without even a tent to cover them. They are drinking out of the sewer. One of our translators (he really can't speak English, but gets mad when you don't understand him), has a horrible cough and has been taking all the food he gets here for volunteering, home to his kids.

Last night some of the employees came back in the late evening and stole alot of the water and most of the food that was here for the volunteers. Pray for peace, volunteers and new supplies. We need them and they need us.

Some of the illness is post-op wound infections because the patients are discharged and can only go home to a tent or the ground and they can't keep the area clean. Two patients with post-partum cardiomyopathy - the heart muscle weakens after pregnancy causing all the symptoms of heart failure - are currently here. One is mild and really here due to stomach problems. The other came in last night and is in critical condition. We don't have enough Dopamine to keep her BP up and don't have a ventilator. She's 32 with a 3 month old and should not have lived throught the night - pray for a miracle for her.

Sent out a girl (I assume he means to a better facility, either USS Comfort or to a hospital in the US) this morning that got the blood. She was much better. Your prayers make a difference.

I'm very tired from being up, but really just hurt more than needing to sleep, at least for now.

Thank you all for your continued prayers. Keep praying for these medical professionals, and especially for the people they are trying to help. May Jesus be glorified through their love and compassion.

Another Prayer Update from Haiti - Specific requests

Hello family and friends,

Thank you for the prayers today. Great news! The diesel got to the hospital before they lost power. YEA! The entire facility is run by diesel generator right now, so that diesel was critical! The things we don't ever have to think about here (except as a snow storm approaches...).

Anyway, the team has been getting some sicker patients today. I don't have a lot of details, but please pray. God knows the details!

• They are seeing child after child with a lot of nausea and vomiting. You can imagine, all those people living in high stress conditions in very close quarters. Any illness will spread quickly. Pray against this illness and for the kids - that they do not become dehydrated.
• Chronically ill patients. Medications for the chronically ill are not readily available (Rob mentioned this a couple days ago). Today they treated a diabetic with a blood sugar of 25-30 (often fatal). Tough situation.
• Another patient today with a bad stroke. Here in the U.S., there are meds and protocols to improve the prognosis for people who suffer strokes, but the doctors there don't have access to any of that.
• A 27 year old woman who was in a building when it collapsed. She was rescued late that night, but suffered a crushed pelvis. Surgeons operated on her pelvis yesterday, but she continues to bleed but not sure from where. Her hemoglobin is only 3.4. Normal for women is 12-16.
• The team requests prayer for mental energy. Seeing so many patients, many of whom they can't help the way they would like, is exhausting. The heat, it was 93.4 degrees today, also wears them down.

Praises too:

• Bradley, one of the team members, fell into the roll of communications with other facilities and was able to locate blood for the 27-year old mentioned above. Without the transfusion, she would have died. He also helped get a patient to the USS Comfort.
• And of course, the diesel!!!

Rob has the overnight shift at the hospital tonight. He'll be busy with the patients mentioned above. Please pray for him to have clear thoughts. God is the Great Physician. Pray that He guides all the medical team in these tough conditions. He can heal what we can't. I'll update later if I hear any more news.

Thanks, Bradley, for taking some of your precious free time to share with me... Thanks, Amanda, for sharing him for a few minutes :) Friendship... that's another praise!

Haiti Update - Please Pray

Hey everyone,

Got a quick note from Rob. Please lift their situation up in prayer. If any of the families have more information than what he's provided, please add a comment below. Thanks!

"Hey! I hope you are enjoying the cool snow. Sweating like a pig here. Stroke, fevers, sick everywhere. [**Yesterday, it was mostly just aches and pains, quick in and out. The strokes and fevers are new**]. We have pediatrics now to see the real sick kids. That helps."

Also, the hospital needed a diesel delivery today - not sure if that is resolved or not, so please pray that the fuel arrives if it hasn't already.

So many answered prayers - this group of medical professionals (and handymen) has been truly blessed by God's provision. Please don't stop praying for them or the people of Haiti.

Thank you.

Surprises!

This has been quite a day. I've experienced emotions I'm not really used to. My heart physically hurt this morning for the people of Haiti. It was almost paralyzing, not fear, not hopelessness, just an intense hurt.

I've felt a bit lonely all day. Rob told me last night that he would probably stay over at the hospital tonight, so I wasn't expecting to hear from him. Yet as the day passed, it got bettter. Tonight, as Ben and I were doing homework on the computer, the not-yet-familiar "ding" of skype calling startled me.

Rob isn't working overnight after all, so we got to talk with him. Ellie showed him her new haircut. Ben jabbered like crazy. Just us being us. It was so familiar - almost hard to believe Rob's sweating in the hot, humid Haitian weather far away.

All is well in their little corner of the world - or as good as it can be under the circumstances. The NCBM team feels quite blessed to be sleeping in the missionary home at Global Outreach (men sleep on the porch and women get the bedrooms). Tonight's exciting dinner - Rob laughed as he shared - included rice, macaroni and cheese and spaghetti. They also had salad, mangoes (every meal so far) and pineapple.

Rob recommends that anyone else coming down with NCBM bring a swimsuit, multi-vitamins with iron to give to the Haitians, and candy for the kids and the Haitian hospital workers. He confirmed that the locals really do believe that vitamins have special powers - not sure if they think they're magical or not, but they like them. As to the candy, he said it's great for getting help and building good will. (I know our own kids will work hard for candy! Why would Haitian kids be any different)

His prayer and praise report (with input from Steve and some others):

• a greater willingness among volunteers to work at night.
• continued good health for the team. They are tired, but strong.
• provision - they have rice, oatmeal, cereal and pasta, but the other food provisions need to be delivered (It's somewhere nearby, but hasn't made it to them yet. No worries).

They are thankful for:

• wonderful accommodations, much better than expected.
• a great team.
• the opportunity to meet people's needs and really make a difference.
• the chance to help.

As I listened, it was obvious from the side chatter among them that this team is becoming its own little family. They seem to be enjoying time with one another and the opportunity to serve together. I think I enjoyed listening to that as much as getting to talk with Rob.

For the NCBM #3 families:

• They have decided that Darrin packed everything but the kitchen sink - and they think he may have it stashed somewhere, too! :)
• Steve is the hardest working of them all - he's the handyman and chef (hopefully he can cook) - and from the sounds of it, doesn't get much of a break!
• Hello to Amanda from Bradley who has the overnight shift.
• The medical team is HOT! As in the weather HOT. It is quite humid and there's not much of a breeze. Rob said the way the hospital's built, they often work in courtyards, completely contained but covered with tarps. So they have shade, but no air movement at all.

I don't think I'd go quite so far to say that things are normal down there, but I do think the team has acclimated well. They are learning some of the customs and beliefs of the Haitian people, and they enjoy the opportunity to help. While they are quite tired (Rob's going to bed before 9:00???), they are not miserable or overwhelmed. That is a blessing, for sure!

God is listening to the prayers of people everywhere. Please don't stop praying! I am thankful that God brought me through the pain of this morning to the peace of this evening. He is ever faithful, and I am grateful that He listens.

Keep praying for the people of Haiti and the relief workers. There is so much still to do.

Good night.

If You Say Go

My heart is breaking today for the people of Haiti. Since posting this morning, I really can't get the verbal images out of my head. Little babies with central lines (that's some serious IV work, saved only for the worst situations) and no one to comfort them. Patients sharing up to 10 to a room, and those are the fortunate ones. Others call a tarp their hospital room.

I know that I have nothing physically to offer in Haiti right now, yet my heart simply breaks. Whoever you are, as you read this post, would you ask God what He wants you to do? Not even for Haiti, necessarily, but for hurting people anywhere? Would you ask Him what His plan is for you to touch a life and make a difference in this world? If God says go, will you go?

I am thankful that churches are banding together to serve the people of Haiti. I lift my own pastor in prayer as he seeks to discern God's plan for our church to get involved. I lift NCBM to you, Lord, as they seek more medical professionals to continue to hospital work in Petionville, Haiti. I thank you for all who are already involved.

My prayer today is beyond words. My heart grieves for people I will never know. Please listen to this song. I pray it will become your prayer.

Life in Haiti - Update #2

From Shannon, a member of NCBM Team #3

"Hiya! I am using someone's computer to send you all a quick update. Everyone is well and safe! It's hard to sum everything up, but Haiti has been very challenging and chaotic, but good things are happening too. We are wroking in an area 12 miles from the capital, so the damage is not as bad as what I had seen on the news before I left. The people literally stand beside the streets all day long trying to sell/trade whatever they have in order to survive. They ask for food or money when we drive by, but we can't help them because there would be a riot.

Most of us have been working in a hospital. There are teams from all over the world (Sweden, Italy, Japan, France, Jamaica, Canada and more). It is very unorganized because there are so many different teams and there is so much work to be done that it is difficult for anyone to organize anything.

There are always several hundred people outside the hospital waiting to get in or just hanging out because they have been discharged, but there is nowhere for them to go. We have an urgent care clinic set up outside, but it is still impossible to see all the people that need to be seen.

Yesterday was a pretty tough day for me. Another nurse and I were put in charge of about 30 post-op patients who we knew almost nothing about. So... that was quite a challenge. Almost all of them had at least one limb amputated. There is a wound care team, so we are not responsible for changing the dressings. Antibiotics and pain meds were our main priorities. It was just not a very good day. But despite all the chaos, the patients are usually smiling and grateful for the care. They are mostly lying on little mattresses in the floor or on cots without mattresses and there are anywhere from 3-10 people in a room. There is no good charting system and we have to hunt down any supplies or drugs we need.

Today was at least 10 times better. Some nurses and paramedics came to help on our hall, so it was a lot smoother. I made bags of medicine for the patients and figured out a way to write simple instructions in Creole and used a translator to tell them how to take it. I ran around getting supplies, figured out ways for people to get out of bed and move around after amputations, slipped a bunch of kids some bubble gum, and figured out how to discharge people. A lot of new things for me.

I also helped in triage. Several babies came in, mostly because they were dehydrated. Also they all had scabies because they have been in a tent together. I knew how to treat that one. I dealt a lot with them and found some formula/pedialyte/diapers to send with the mothers.

I helped a doctor sew up a huge laceration on this guy's head.

The last few hours we were there today I was working with this baby who is septic [blood infection] among other problems. He just ahd a central line put into his femoral artery and there was nobody even taking care of him. (Sorry if you guys didn't understand that). It was very hard to leave him, but one of our paramedics was staying all night, so he is going to keep an eye on him. Basically I did a little bit of everything today and I loved it.

Thank you all so much for your prayers and please continue to pray! It's really important! I hope you all are doing well and the KFBCCDC people had better be taking good care of my babies. :)"

After Rob washed and hung his laundry, he also sent an email last night. [SO thankful that Bradley took a computer!]:

"Internet at the hospital is terrible. [That's no surprise! Just happy there is internet at all!] Did a lot of administrative running and because I have the only team of primary care people, I am now also in charge of the night shift. [God is stretching him big time... not his favorite thing, to boss people around.] Had fun with a little boy whose brother is sick. I have pictures. We continue to have food and have not been kicked out of the cafeteria. The Sam's Purse group landed a helicopter here today. [He hoped our pastor was with them.] I told our group we're leaving at 7 even if we leave someone here, so I need to sleep.

They seem joyful in a strange way. Some, like Vlad, it is Jesus. Others I don't know. The way it in the areas we are in is likely how many usually live. It's a hard life. When I see kids begging for food and water it is very hard. I can't imagine my kids having to do that.

We've had a few tough patients, but not too bad. Most just need repairs to wounds or more surgery because of infection. A lot of aches and pains and PTSD. That's hard because we can't do much there with the language gap and lack of meds."

As I read their reports, I wonder how they do it.

• No medical charting means they must rely on oral communication to keep track of meds. It's not like here, where medical charts record every bathroom break, tablet of tylenol given and every bite of food eaten.
• Doctors and nurses are trained to treat the whole patient. I can't imagine the heartbreak as they look into a patient's grief-stricken eyes and knowing all they can do is offer a prayer. The truth is, there is no home to go to when they get better. There are no answers to the questions of "where is my family?"
• The babies. A dear friend of ours had a son born with a fatal heart condition. Yet, his life was so rich. Every moment of his life, his parents and nurses watched over him. He was loved, rocked, sung to, cuddled, and tenderly cared for. Such a blessed life compared to the little one Shannon wrote about.
• And the kids...

Praying today for more strength for the medical teams in Haiti. Praying also for opportunities to share the love of Jesus, through a smile, a reassuring hug, or even through bubble gum. Thank you, God, that this team sees the value in their work and knows they serve for you. Amen

Exhausting. Rewarding.

I haven't heard from Rob today. My guess is he has the overnight shift tonight.

Here are reports from two other team members:

Bradley wrote, "worked a 36 hour shift at community hospital.. I have seen a lot. Smiled a lot and had my heart broken a lot of past 2 days!!! I'm ready to bed!!! round 3 in the morning."

Sheryl wrote, "Started work yesterday. Very busy. Very tired. The work is not unusual. I am in ICU. It is ok. Have sick pts and shipped one today to Detroit. We did do chest tubes and central lines. I am very tired. The people are so very appreciative of our care. I am having the ...time of my life. I have never seen so many guns and I feel safe. The Haitians are very friendly. they blow us kisses and wave as we drive by in the buses. It is very hot here and I have sweated more than I think I ever have in my life. See you soon."

Keep praying, friends. Pray that they will have the strength to "finish strong."

Photos from Haiti

Sometimes a picture is worth 1,000 words.

This link will take you to photos of the NCBM medical teams working in Haiti.

http://www.wral.com/news/national_world/world/haiti/image_gallery/6870399/

"I don't miss Dad."

All day long, Ellie has said, "I don't miss my dad." Every time she's been asked she has given the same response. (We went to church, the grocery store, for hair cuts and to piano lessons today. She was asked often.)

I think I'm suffering a bit from the lack of sleep (high schoolers start the day way too early!), because I didn't think to explore this comment until this evening. At her request, we had just prayed for her daddy. Then she announced again that she does not miss him.

"Ellie," I spoke gently, "are you happy Daddy is gone?" "No."

"Do you wish he was here to tuck you in at night?" "Yes."

"Do you feel just a little bit sad that you don't get to see him every day?" "I'm a lot sad."

"Ellie, when you're a little bit sad and want him with you, that means you miss him."

"Oh." She got very quiet then. "I didn't know that."

Really, little one? I never would have guessed.

Haitian Orphans - an update

While the nation of Haiti is in turmoil, there are amazing things happening!

Kindy, now Elijah, is home from Haiti. He has a forever family, a warm bed, a mommy and daddy to love him. Rejoicing that his paperwork was completed so quickly.

Lovely still waits. She was supposed to come home today, but there are delays. Her family has been a tremendous voice for her and all the orphans in Haiti. Please pray for Lovely and all the other kids waiting to come home to their forever families.

I honestly don't understand how the Haitian adoption process works. News reports share stories of kids who came "home" quickly, yet others wait. But I do know that God works things out. His Word promises "that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, and who have been called according to his purpose." (Rom 8:28)

Praying today for the orphans of Haiti:

• That Lovely, and other kids with forever families, will be home soon.
• That the new orphans, those children who lost their parents in the earthquake, will be discovered and will receive love, care and support from the volunteers and other workers in Haiti right now.
• That God will provide permanent families for these kids.
• That families who separated in the chaos and confusion following the earthquake will be reunited.

Amen

NCBM #3 Day One Report

The medical team finished its first day at the hospital.

They start each day with devotional time to stay focused on bringing Christ's love to the people of Haiti. Darrin Adams says, "I ask everyone to take time to appreciate everything in your life. The areas that we pass through on the way to the hospital in Petionville were indescribable. These people basically have nothing and somehow they survive."

The surgeons went to the children's hospital to do repeat surgeries and infected wound care.

The rest of the team worked at Petionville Hospital from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The patients there are spread out in areas inside and outside of the hospital. NCBM Team #3 is conducting the initial triage and getting the patients set up based on illness or injury. Two of the team members, Bradley is one of them, are working overnight just to cover hospital needs. The team members will rotate overnight call.

Rob Dawkins shares, "There are lots of amputations here and skin infections. We are dealing with a lot of post traumatic stress and illness from all the inhaled dust. The number of people with amputations is astounding. I don't know what they will do with so many amputees." Rob is the triage department head. Humor still intact he said, "apparently you get a leadership position when you raise your hand around here." He personally asked for prayers for boldness and wisdom.

There are about 50 doctors (may be medical professionals of all types, not sure) working 10-12 hour shifts. They have some interpreters - really people who know some English - helping. Rob reports they need a lot more nurses and paramedics down there. "Lots and lots of nurses."

Rob also reports that they have a decent supply of antibiotics, but they need vitamins. They have "magic powers here." (I have no idea if that was meant as a joke or if he was serious. I think he was serious.)

Additionally, the people released from the hospital really have nowhere to go. They go to tent cities nearby, but the conditions are not good. The entire area smells like burnt plastic stink.

The team is staying in a missionary's personal home. The family obtained an emergency visa for their adopted child (or children) and left Haiti quickly. Each of the team members has a mattress to sleep on - Rob's is on the porch. They have dinner each night prepared by some local women. Tonight was beans and rice, chicken, mangoes, watermelon and coleslaw. Their situation is much better than some other medical relief volunteers who are sleeping on the roof of the hospital!

Praise report:

• The team made it safely to and from the hospital,
• The team has a "whatever it takes" attitude,
• Things are improving medically for the Haitians.

Prayer requests:

• Continued safety during the trip
• Continued improvement in cooperation among teams - so many groups from so many different countries. It takes a humble attitude to serve most effectively.
• Haitian future. There are no meds here for chronic diseases which means the chronically ill will continue to get sicker.

Thank you to everyone who is following our journey and praying for us. Please do not stop. We appreciate every single prayer lifted on our behalf and on behalf of the Haitian people.

I Wish I Could...

Since Rob left for Haiti, many people have shared, "I wish I could go." Some wish, but lack the medical background to do what he's doing. Some wish, but can't because of work, family or other obligations. Some wish, but lack finances.

I don't wish to go. Nope. I'm happy right here on planet comfortable. I'm glad he went. I will support his decision should he choose to go again. But, for me, this is the place to be.

Yet, I am reminded that while I live here on planet comfortable, it doesn't mean I can't help. I can support Haiti relief missions through a variety of reputable agencies:

• The Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/
• North Carolina Baptist Men (Rob's sending agency): http://www.baptistsonmission.org
• Lifeline Christian Mission (an Ohio area group): http://www.lifeline.org/

And I am sure there are many, many more.

Here on planet comfortable, I can live out "the great commission," which says "Go and make disciples of all nations." How? I can:

• volunteer in my local church, giving my time and talents to share the good news of Jesus with the people who attend each weekend.
• give to my local church, honoring God with the tithe and with offerings. (My church participates in global missions, particularly in Swaziland, Africa and India, in addition to supporting local mission groups).
• volunteer in the community, supporting local agencies with my time. (See my son's post about his volunteer experience over Christmas vacation).
• pray for and encourage missionaries, my church staff and leadership, and fellow Christians as we do this life together. Building relationships is essential to fulfilling Christian living.

Those people serving in Haiti are sacrificing in an incredible way. I am thankful for all the support we're receiving as Rob serves, especially all the prayer support. It's that kind of living that matters, engaging in prayer, service, support, and relationships that foster the kingdom of God. I hope as people see the difference being made by the Christian outreach in Haiti, they will recognize opportunities wherever they might be. Some will be called to the mission field like my husband, but others can serve here on planet comfortable!

Update from the "Haitian Hospital."

From Rob at 1:40 p.m. today.

"Hey! At the hospital. seeing patients in a makeshift clinic
(translate: a tarp on the ground and one above with 12 chairs
surounding it). We have seen about 6o people with 3 of us so far [that's in about 5 hours].
Most of them are dust and stress related. Using a hungarian computer,
so the keys are in a bit different places at times. Things are going
well. Mentally and emotionally doing fine so far. Were sharing
space at camp with Samaritan's Purse. Pray for peace and Gods guidance for
me and the leaders of both [NCBM and Sam's Purse]. I love and miss all of you. xoxoxo.
More tonite. Love, Treds"

Praying that God's divine plan for the nation of Haiti and her precious people will be revealed to those who work together to help them. Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. And God, thanks for that Hungarian computer. It was awesome to hear from Rob this first day in the hospital. What a blessing. Amen

What a difference a week can make!

Last Tuesday, I was supposed to post on Martha's blog. I put it off until Wednesday morning. I was just too grumpy Tuesday to write anything encouraging! No specific reason for being so grumpy. I just was. When Rob got home from work, he decided to take me out to dinner and shopping for a new refrigerator.

It was nice to get out. I think it even helped. Rob prayed for me. We looked at refrigerators and found the one we most wanted was on sale. Sweet, I thought! I'm finally getting a fridge big enough for two teenage boys and their appetites. But, no. Rob - uncharacteristically I might add - decided that we shouldn't get it.

Wednesday morning I woke up in a better mood. The kids and I seemed to be getting along better (hmmm, wonder if my mood had anything to do with that). I finally wrote the post for Martha's blog, saying "if you're like me, and you've hit the wall, rejoice! God is closer than you think... Press in to Him like you never have before. And be patient. He'll talk, when He knows we're ready to listen."

Just a couple hours later, Rob got the call asking him to go to Haiti.

I've thought back to last week many times, and I wonder. Did satan know that Rob was getting a call to Haiti? I'm sure he doesn't want Christians ministering to broken hearts there.

There are only two things that might have kept Rob home. He would have said "no" to the trip if he thought the kids and I were having a tough time. He would have turned down the trip if our finances weren't stable.

So, if satan was trying to mess with us, he didn't win. My bad day didn't linger. And we didn't buy the beautiful, shiny, BIG new refrigerator like we planned. Rob is in Haiti. Lives will be changed.

God is closer than we think... Listen. And be thankful.

Late night update from Haiti

Hey families,

Here's the plan for tomorrow.

All team assignments for tomorrow are complete. Most of the team will be going to the Pétionville Community Hospital and a children's hospital. I think the name of it is Little Girls and Little Boys Hospital if you want to google it.

We are settled into the Global Outreach Hospital which is about 7 miles from Port-au-Prince. We can see the water and some ships near Port-au Prince from our compound. We were lucky enough to have access to a house instead of the volunteer quarters. We have wireless access (thanks to the team members that brought their computers), hot water, and a pool....yes, a gorgeous pool. I didn't have time to use the pool, however, it was nice seeing the sparkling water.

We sorted out our collection of medical supplies and packed some of them for tomorrow's assignments. We anticipate a full days work tomorrow, but not a overnight shift yet because we plan on meeting tomorrow night to assess the needs of the two hospitals. Our primary objective is to maintain continuity with the Pétionville Community Hospital and assist in other locations, depending on the needs of the day.

I think everyone else is already alseep, so I better join them as we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow.

Darrin Adams

NCBM Team 3

Haiti Team Update

Here's an update from the team, compiled from various emails. They have had a busy day getting ready for tomorrow's work. Please keep them in your prayers, particularly that they will be mentally, emotionally and physically prepared for the work ahead.

Rob sent me a message about last night's service at the Ozama church, "Last night we ate with the Ozama Baptist Church. It was fun to sing praise songs in spanish. They were such caring servants and giving, it was touching. It was sacrificial giving in action."

I, Karen, am so thankful for the Christian church. These strangers opened their doors and their hearts to our loved ones. God's people coming together to make a difference for complete strangers. John 13:34-35 says, "... Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

They pulled out of the Dominican Republic early this morning, around 5:30. Breakfast involved snacks on the bus. Rob sent Ben a message, "Thanks for the jerky. It was breakfast today and is very good. I thought I might eat more today, but we made it to the house where were sleeping in time for supper."

The trip was tough, but they were able to catch up on some sleep. They also had praise and worship and devotional time. Everyone reports that they are a close group and will work well together. They met with Team #2's leader tonight and will go to the hospital in the morning. The surgeons will go to a nearby pediatric hospital. The others are going to the local hospital.

So far they have seen some damage and lots of people, but nothing too bad.

They are staying at Global Outreach, a mission in the desert, affectionately called the "Oasis." Debbie Hilliard, the team leader, describes the accommodations as luxurious. Somehow, I don't think she means Ritz Carlton luxury. :)

On a side note, many people have emailed or facebooked me to say my husband, Rob, was mentioned on HIS Radio in the Raleigh area today. I find it absolutely hilarious that my humble, quiet, behind the scenes husband has now hit internet interviews, TV broadcast and radio news. I am thankful, though, that the cause of this mission is getting news and that people are praying!

Good night, everyone. Sleep well, team!

Missional Confession

Hey, how about that title? I think it makes sense, but I'm just a little sleep-deprived (up at 3:30 Sunday morning with Rob, and then up most of last night thanks to the ferocious storm in our area. Though, glad we got the weather and not Haiti!)

Anyway, back to the post...

Two weeks ago, missionary work was not really on my radar. Our daughter, adopted from China five years ago, is our "missionary project." (That's a joke...) My husband always wanted to participate in short-term missions, but I just couldn't see us as a missionary family.

I didn't really understand how making bead bracelets with tribal women could make a difference. I could have understood, but honestly, I just went the "I'm not gonna sit in the dirt and make bracelets" route, and bought a bracelet to "help." I pushed it out of my mind without really considering the heart of the work.

God, of course, has ways of opening our eyes. This week, with my husband in Haiti, I'm learning a lot about my misinformed self. First, missionaries are just regular old people - well, maybe not regular. It takes a huge heart to become a missionary. I used to think they were a different breed, not sure exactly, but somewhere outside the regular flow of society. (Don't throw tomatoes at the screen... I'm just being honest.)

Missionaries are CALLED to do the work they do. It's not just a job. It's not just an adventure. It's an incredible, passionate heart desire to touch the hearts of hurting, lost people somewhere out in the world. It's a drive - coming from deep within - to use skills, talent, passion, gifting to touch broken hearts and offer the healing love of Jesus.

I used to think that my contributions to my local church was enough. Not sure exactly why I thought that... It's not like my few dollars each month could actually support a mission project (if it's all someone has to give, that's one thing. But my family could do more, and I know it). Really, mission work is costly. To work in third world countries or remote areas, missionaries need supplies. Those supplies aren't readily available at the local Lowe's or Target. No. Those supplies have to be shipped in. Expensive!

My husband's trip is largely being funded by the NC Baptist Men (http://ncmissions.org). To travel requires plane fare to the Dominican Republic and back, bus expenses for travel to Haiti, food, medical supplies (some generously donated, but the need is far greater than the donations), insurance. We are fortunate. Since he is a physician, we can afford the cost of that plane ticket without destroying the budget. Most in missions don't have such a good "regular" job here at home.

My eyes are wide open now. I don't know the next step for our family. I think God is okay with us getting through my husband's first trip before we make any more decisions. (Not to mention, my husband and I are only communicating through another traveler's twitter. Not the best venue for deep conversation.)

I do know that I appreciate mission work in a new way. I know my prayers for missionaries won't be the surface prayers I've offered in the past. Whatever God has for us next, I look forward to it. Adventure, sacrifice, opportunity to change lives. Whatever it is, we will go where He sends us. We will do what He asks.

Thank you, God, for your patience with me. Thank you, for the opportunity to make a difference today in Haiti. Thank you, for the great commission. I understand "Go into all the world..." now (or at least I'm beginning to). I look forward to the plans you have for us, whatever they are!

Made it to Haiti

Entering Haiti

"We have crossed the border into Haiti. This place is a different world."

More help for Haiti

I never expected my blog to become a voice for Haiti. I'm thankful that God is allowing me to use my little corner of the web-world to share about His work in Haiti. :)

My pastor, Matt Fry, leaves for Haiti today. He's traveling with other pastors to lay the groundwork for long-term help for Haiti. While the focus now is on clean-up and medical care, emergency food provision and security, soon, the nation of Haiti will need to rebuild. It's my prayer that the church will come together in unity, generously providing for this hurting nation.

Please join me in prayer for all the relief workers in Haiti. Pray for safe travel (my husband's team is traveling 10 hours by bus today to start working this evening), energy, strength to endure, and an ability to focus. Pray for the flights to and from Haiti to go smoothly, without delays. Pray for provisions to continue to arrive. The needs are far beyond what anyone on the island can provide.

Pastor Matt, we pray that your trip will be safe and productive. I pray you will have sustained energy to be the hands and feet of Jesus as you travel. May this trip be the beginning of wonderful friendships and partnerships in Haiti.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen (Eph. 3:20-21)

Worshipping in Santo Domingo

I just have to say, technology is such a blessing when used to build up the body of believers. Thanks all for your prayers for the "Team in Haiti." :)

This morning, not-so-bright and early, NBC-17 was at RDU to interview members of the team traveling to Haiti from the Raleigh area. You can read/watch at MY-NC.

The official "logo" of the medical disaster relief team.

With this shirt on, they have the ability to work in Haiti. It reminds me of a song, "Covered by the Blood." Just as this t-shirt provides safety, security, and freedom so the people of Haiti can receive relief in love, Jesus' blood covers our sins when we accept Him as Savior, providing safety, security and freedom in love.

The team assembling in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Except for the setting and the sleepiness (those flights were really early this morning), it sounds pretty much like a Sunday around here. The team went to the grocery store for supplies to take into Haiti tomorrow. Their church host, Iglesia Bautista Ozama near Santo Domingo, DR, had a banquet and service this evening.

Here's the team!

Their whole experience today reminds me of the Acts 2 church. Acts 2:42 says, "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." God's church is the same in North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, the Dominican Republic and in Haiti. As we worship Him, joining together in fellowship and prayer, He gets the opportunity to do great things.

My prayer tonight is that this team will be united in spirit and purpose as they go forward into the "battlezone." I pray that God will bless their efforts, keep them strong, and protect their hearts when they confront enormous obstacles. I pray for God to move miraculously through the little hospital in Petionville, so that Jesus is glorified. And I pray that these faithful servants will get to praise God for "adding to their number daily those who are being saved."

May God bless the team with good sleep tonight and safe travel (10-12 hour bus ride) into Haiti tomorrow. They take off at 5:30 tomorrow morning.

How do you really feel? Really?

As Rob prepared for Haiti, people asked about me. How are you really doing with all of this?

Really? I am completely at peace.

Before Rob signed on to go, the kids and I prayed. What a privilege to pray out loud with my kids for their dad. I asked them to pray about whether he should go. Instead, my older son prayed for all the medical missionaries going to Haiti. My daughter asked God not to let her daddy miss her too much. My tenderhearted son prayed for his dad's safety - I know he wants his dad here with him, but he knows there's a bigger plan.

Driving Rob to the airport this very early morning, I was completely calm. Totally in awe of an amazing God who gives us such opportunities to shine the glory back on Him where it should be.

God prepared my husband for this trip. He gave him the desire to be a physician. He gave him this amazing personality that can compartmentalize when needed without shutting down. I have no idea how Rob's brain works, that's for sure, but I know it's a special gift. God gave Rob a passion for medical missions. I'll stick with the bed - and for the next 10 days sleep in the middle - thanks!

Some things weigh on my heart, of course. I don't think it's possible to be human and not hurt for the people of Haiti. They did nothing to deserve such devastation, yet the earthquake came. For the most part, they don't have twitter, facebook, email, texting to find their loved ones. I can't imagine their fears and loss. I can't imagine their pain: physical, emotional, mental. Their world may as well be the moon. Nothing is where it should be. Landmarks are gone. Gathering spots, gone. Shelter, food. Gone.

My heart aches, in the deepest place, for my husband as he faces the toughest assignment of his life. He will have to make really tough decisions, and I hurt for him. (Compartmentalizer or not, I know he will have moments that he struggles). He will see more death in 10 days than in years of practicing medicine here. I hurt for him. He will work long, tiring hours without much chance for rest. My heart aches for him.

Our job, here, is to pray, without ceasing. Our job is to intercede for these missionaries, asking God to provide the strength, the peace, the calm, the focus and the rest they need. Our job is to trust that God, the creator of heaven and earth, will shine his love on the people of Haiti through his people. God created Rob for this. He will most certainly take care of him. And we will pray.

Petionville, Haiti

At 5:00 this morning, Rob and his medical supplies arrived at RDU airport headed to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The group meets each other today. They will rest up before heading to Haiti tomorrow.

A big thanks to the C3 Church family for your prayers as Rob travels and providing dressings and tape so desperately needed for wound care. Thanks also to Horizon Family Medicine for providing other medical supplies, making a ton of calls to reschedule Rob's patients, and your prayers. Special thanks to Mark Nelson for the travel bags. They hold a lot of stuff!

The big green bag is filled with dressings and tape

Monday, the team will head to Haiti. It's our understanding, that they are staying at a mission and driving into the hospital each day.

Petitionville (Pay-shun-ville), Haiti

Somewhere in this small town on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince is the 25 bed hospital where the team will work. They anticipate treating about 250 patients a day in the hospital and in tents nearby.

Praying today for safe travel for the team as the members make their way from Texas, Montana, Charlotte and Raleigh, NC to the Dominican Republic.

Join me in praying for the team:

Charlotte group:

Darrin Adams, Candler NC EMT- Paramedic;

Shannon Brooke, King NC RN

Sheryl Cuppy, Waynesville NCRN - Emergency Room Nurse

Kelly Greene, Boone NC, L&D nurse

James Johnson, Spruce Pine NC,auto-mechanic

Bradley Jowers, Franklin NC EMT-P

DanielMenser III, AdvanceNC, Nurse Anesthetist

Raleigh:

Robert Caudle, Raleigh NC, Orthopedic Surgeon

Robert Dawkins, Jr. Clayton NC Physician

Debbie Hilliard, Clayton NC EMT, Firefighter, Captain

Steven Wynn, New Bern NC, Handyman

Other areas:

Linda Gibson, College Station TX, Nurse Anesthetist

Kathleen Wilson, Kalispell MT, Physicians Assistant

Douglas Duncan, Marshall TX, Orthopedic Surgeon

What to expect in Haiti

This report was just sent to Rob this morning. He is part of Team 3, going to relieve Team 2. Here's what he'll be doing in Haiti. Please pray.

Below is a description of the today’s work by Team 2. (By the way, Team 1 made it home safely.)

This AM I started by rounding on the post op ward checking everybody from the night before. Most were doing OK but needed dressing changes, pain medication, IV changing or other needs tended to The nursing staff on the "post op" ward was one single PA who was over about 50 patients for the evening. We needed to try to get as many out of the hospital as possible due to the planned surgeries for today--not much different than what it is at home except in difference surroundings :-).

so many amputations it just is horrible. Many had to get amputated because there wasn't the equipment and people available to try to fix their fractures. That just sickens me. Now they are without a major limb simply because they didn't have what needed to fix it at the time. Unbelievable.

The tent city outside is growing daily with people we can't keep inside and who have to be "discharged" Additionally many are afraid to go home or don't have a home to go to.

After that I decided I really needed to try to get organized a bit. I spent so much time yesterday looking for things I needed. I think some of the other staff felt the same way because I saw make shift shelves going up made from concrete blocks and a desk top. I went to the supply area where I was working and started cleaning when a MD from Sweden who was in the room next door came into the supply room she thought that it might make a decent patient room and could help alleviate the overcrowding in their room. So I agreed to try to clean it up and add one additional room for patients. At this point, skill sets aren't as important as doing what is needed. So I found a broom, donned some gloves and spent about an hour cleaning up this supply room for patients.

After a quick break for lunch I spent most of the afternoon in the intensive care unit. the folks there really needed a break. We had a woman with a hemoglobin of 2--pretty much as inconsistent with life as you can get and still be alive. They had somehow procured blood for her-one of the volunteers here gave some--and I got that started. Several post op patients came in as well. We had a woman with tetanus-we were watching--very ill but stable, a woman with a complicated C-section and her baby and various other folks who needed a little extra attention. It was really amazing to me what we were doing caring for these patients in the midst of this disaster.

Later this afternoon I walked by a room where a elderly quite sick looking man was calling out and no one seemed to hear him. I went in and immediately recognized him from yesterday. Yesterday he was laying in on the ground in the hospital foyer covered up but just barely with no clothes on. Next to him was a sign which was so eerie to me : NPO, IV fluids only, DNR. He has sustained a spinal cord injury and there was really nothing to do for him. He had no family with him. Today he just wanted something to drink. So I spent about 5 minutes just giving him sips of water.

I think most of you know where I am going with this. Jesus says we need to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty and help those in need. It might have been the most important things I really did all day long.

Many people are here helping in many good ways--giving of their hearts and souls, body and talents. So be encouraged, the world is reaching out to Haiti.

Finally, I met up with Romel today. It was an emotional meeting. His family’s house and he and Fregga's house are completely destroyed and they are living on the street. He is very discouraged about what the future holds. I reassured him we are there to assist them in rebuilding their lives. These are people we know and who are affiliated with our ministry directly who we need to be in a position to help once there is a system in place to do so. Real individual people who are affected.

Our team is spread out throughout the hospital, paramedics doing triage, dressing changes, and other things. The two docs are manning the post op and ICU's with me and others. The two nurses are at a different hospital helping out with many ortho and neuro patients there. All are representing NC Baptist Men well in this effort.

Half our team is staying the night to help relieve some of the night staff and will return in the AM. I am going home to be available to return to relieve them in the AM.

Thanks so much for all your prayers. They are really holding me up. The Lord prepared me so that I can do what needs to be done without a lot of emotional response at this point but those who are close to me, you probably will bear much of that burden when I return. thanks again.

Under His crushing mercy.

April

A Knight in Shining Armor

For as long as can remember, my husband has wanted to go on medical missions trips. I always pointed out the danger, the unknown, the consequences for our family if things didn't go right.

I said no.

For years.

Then something happened. I'm not sure if I can explain it, but I'll try. (Wives out there, please read this not thinking of me and my husband, but of you and your husband.)

Men like adventure.

I know, I know... so do women. But for men, adventure is a really a big deal. They like fast cars (even if they drive the minivan). As kids, they dream of becoming firefighters rescuing the world, super-heroes, and Army guys (or Marines - that's for Curtis). They want to be knights in shining armor. They dream of slaying dragons, and stuff like that.

Dads like to wrestle with their kids, toss them up in the air, and knock over blocks. They make monster noises. They growl. They build tunnels with couch cushions.

Then comes wife. Calm, conservative, safe. And what happens? The chivalrous knight dutifully removes his armor and tucks it in the back of the closet. Every once in a while, he might take a peek at it, wistfully wishing he could wear it again. Sigh.

No dragons to slay. No world to save. Complacency sets in.

We wives wonder why. What happened to that fun, bright guy I married? Why doesn't he laugh anymore? Whatever happened to that twinkle in his eye?

Can you guess where I'm going? Yep. It's up to us!

It's up to us to listen to our husbands, not just their words, but their hearts. It's up to us to care more about their dreams than about our practical selves. It's up to us to honor them for who they are and not force them to be who we want them to be.

My husband leaves for Haiti in a couple days. He's excited to go. Not because it sounds fun, that's for sure. He's learned a lot about what to expect, and it won't be easy. Yet, his eyes twinkle. He plans. He prepares. He prays.

I am concerned. Haiti isn't particularly stable right now. He's about to see suffering that he can't really comprehend. I want him to keep him home, safe. But more than anything, I want him to live the life he is meant to live. Go slay the dragon, good knight.

Clip art courtesy of Melissa Snell, copyright © 1998-2009 Melissa Snell.

Heart Surgeon

Rob was 10 years old, a time when kids dream of becoming President. He watched a documentary about open heart surgery. And he decided right then and there that he'd be the president's doctor. Not the president, but the man responsible for his heart and his health.

He never changed his mind... on the doctor part, anyway. He just seems to have known since that documentary that he was meant to be a doctor. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" Somehow, Rob tuned into that plan very young. I've never been so certain of my own calling.

Through our 20 years of marriage, it's been my honor to stand by his side. I've assisted as he provided care at a car accident, literally taking the shirt off his back to apply pressure to a wound. In China, getting our own daughter to bring her home, our hotel room became a mini-medical clinic as Rob examined baby after baby treating upset tummies, fevers and rashes.

He has called me to pray for families about to receive life shattering news. He has asked for prayers for wisdom when a baby is sick and he doesn't have any good answers. He has requested that I pray for hurting marriages that are literally making the family physically ill. His heart for his patients goes way beyond their physical health.

When the earthquake hit Haiti last week, he immediately wanted to go. It wasn't a question of if. Rather we asked how? when? Monday night, many churches gathered at C3 to pray for the people of Haiti, the relief workers, the medical professionals and the orphans. In our prayer circle, I asked God to open the door and show us the way.

God answered fast. Rob got two calls for mission trips yesterday. One came from our own C3, a missions and outreach trip with people he already knows. Traveling into that destruction with friends sure sounds appealing. The other call came from a Christian medical missions group with a hospital in Haiti. Going to Haiti to provide medical relief with people he doesn't know, but doing exactly what God designed him to do.

We had about an hour to decide. Time to pray - he prayed between patients. The kids and I prayed here. Friends prayed.

God spoke clearly. With total peace and a strong sense of anticipation, we knew he should go with the medical mission group. It was exactly what we asked God for on Monday night: the opportunity to minister to hurting hearts by ministering to broken bodies.

He's not the heart doctor to the president like he dreamed as a boy. Rather, he is a heart doctor for God, ministering not just to patient illnesses, but to their hearts.

Please join me here these next couple weeks as Rob journeys to Haiti. Join us in praying for the people of Haiti he will soon meet. Ask God to prepare him to minister to the broken hearts as he ministers to physical wounds. We know God prepared the way, and we can't wait to see what He will accomplish, through Rob's hands and heart.

Thank you.

Find a penny...

The past few weeks, I have found a surprising number of pennies on the ground. It seems there's one waiting for me everywhere I go. It got me thinking...

• Pennies aren't worth much (maybe that's why there are so many on the ground, ignored, but that's another thought), yet when I find one, I feel a little bit like a kid. Like I've discovered a treasure.
• Pennies aren't very fancy. Most that I find are a dull brown. A bit beat up. But they still work the same as any other penny.
• A bunch of pennies, used together, make a difference. When we were adopting our daughter, we "saved every penny," literally. They added up to more than $100 over the course of a year. That's some spending power.

We're a lot like pennies. Most of us aren't very fancy. For the most part, we don't cost much - friendship is absolutely free. And together, we can make a big difference in the world. Our church is sponsoring a medical supply drive for Haiti. No person, alone, could easily fill the trailer with supplies, but together, we can. And we are!

Like the church of Acts 2:42-47, if we "devote [ourselves] to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer," "praising God and enjoying the favor of all people," we will make a difference.

Let's not ignore those "pennies" out there, who don't know Jesus. Getting the chance to introduce another "dull penny" to new life in Christ, that's the real treasure. That's worth getting excited about!

ANSWERED PRAYER!!!

Little Lovely is coming home.

Update from a friend:
"from Janelle- UPDATE: Haiti Secretary Napolitano has announced humanitarian parole for orphaned Haitian children.Please see the attached documents, which detail the announcement and fact sheet.Our gratitude goes out to everyone, including the Secretary, who contributed to this very good news for the orphaned children of Haiti. ...All of our best wishes, Tom DiFilipo, President & CEO Rebecca Harris..... YAHOOOOOO!"

Praising God tonight for answered prayer! Praying for Lovely and her family as they finally reunite. Praying for all the orphans in Haiti, those who live in orphanages and those who lost their parents in the earthquake, that God will comfort them, care for them, and show His love to them. Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness.