Exciting and Turbulent Times

Each time I post I recognize that I am reporting on conversations that seem to be going in many directions from Bethany Kids itself and the medical work taking place there, to the opportunities to expand through the education of local surgeons to practice around Kenya and East Africa (and possibly beyond), to the suggestion of the takeover of a hospital in Mombasa to set up a satellite clinic, to the discussion about Joytown and the improvements that are required there, to the expansion of the existing facilities at Bethany which is associated with Kijabe Hospital.

I understand that this sounds like a lot of different directions in which it is not possible to go everyone at once. However, as I sit around the table, join these groups on tours and visit the hospital, I am in awe of the inspiration, dedication, and the creativity of ideas that are shared. The partnership between IF (spina bifida hydrocephalus), Samaratin's Purse, Africa Inland Missions, etc. spark interesting ideas about how to improve care and make a larger impact on the children here.

Bethany is coming to a point where change is necessary in one way or another. As I mentioned in my previous visit to the ward, children and mothers are occupying every available bed in every room and hallway. Increased capacity is required to service these children from all over east Africa: Kenya, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and possibly beyond. This may come in the form of an expansion to the existing facility to add more wards and beds. The problem there is that the building and land is actually owned by Kijabe Hospital and not Bethany. Another option is the purchase of land and the building of an autonomous facility. That requires more than simply money.

Expanding the capacity by using other hospitals such as Mombasa is an option to alleviate the overwhelming numbers. The takeover of Joytown could also provide another medical location attached to the school so that children can receive medical attention and schooling during the rehab process. There are many options and they are all being explored. The reality is expansion is required in order to continue to meet the needs. Careful consideration and evaluation is on-going. From this perspective, it is an exciting time for me to be here to take part in the discussions, especially the ones involving schools and education.

Thank you for your on-going prayers of support.