We start Zulu classes tonight! It has been one of those things that has been postponed then canceled and then restarted so we are looking forward to actually getting started in an official way. Language, as you know has been a bit of an issue. For me it especially hard to help a mother fill out an antenatal card for the clinic if we don't speak the same language, so I hope in learning Zulu it will at the least familiarize my ear to the different sounds of the other languages that come into the clinic. Speaking of the clinic, for those of you that don't know I work in the antenatal clinic that is held at the community center 2 days a week. Antenatal s the same as Prenatal, so the ladies come and get checked by a midwife and have their blood work done before they deliver at a far away hospital. The problem that has been reoccurring at this clinic is that we haven't been able to keep a steady nurse to do the blood work. Govt hospital nurses are over worked and understaffed and underpaid, so no one seems to be able to spare anyone. And it s actually very dangerous to continue with antenatal care without having blood work done, several problems could be present that the mother or the hospital would not be aware of, the scariest of which is HIV. So instead it looks like the clinic will have to close until we find someone to do blood.
Even though I get queasy at the sight of blood, I wish that I was qualified. I know that is not what I am here for but it is so awful for these moms who will have to either travel far to the hospital to get their blood workup or they will go to another clinic that is not so nice. . . or they won't go at all and end up with a baby that is infected with something. I just wish I knew more. . .on a daily basis. Or had more helpful skills, I know I have resources and education and that is more than the average Precious or Soley (common names here) but it s a challenge to feel that inadequacy and then know what to do with it. I won't be taking on anymore degrees at least not at this stage but I can pray and use what I do know to do the little that I can and ask Jesus to multiply it. So really its not me at all, people don't need me, they need Jesus the one who can supply for their every need, the one who feeds 5000 people with 5 loaves and 2 fish. I am not trying to preach, just thinking out loud or. . . through my fingers I guess. It is helpful to reflect a little in these quiet moments when Keira is sleeping, thanks for listening. . .or reading I mean. Until next time,
Love Chrissy
The Davies Update: Our journey of hope in South Africa...telling a different story!
3 comments:
Hi Trev & Chrissie Sorry to hear about the clinic, that is bad news for you at the moment as that was the place for you to connect with the moms wasn't it? But we believe that God has a plan and pray that He will reveal it to you soon.
Sounds like your 'cell group' is going to be really interesting and we will continue to pray for you all as you work with these difficult issues. Lots of love to you all.
I think about the feedings a lot myself these days, Chrissy. Bless you as you bring your little and watch Jesus make miracles with it. I look forward to your stories.
That is sad news about the clinic closing Chrissy! I will pray for God's hand in the situation and that you will continue to be able to do what God is calling you to. I love you and miss you friend!!!
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