Mercy Memoirs: Can we be serious please?

For real... is this really work? :) Thank you everyone at Duke PICU for letting me come experience these fun days with the patients on Mercy Ships!

Fredrick and I being a blowfish :)

This is dear Francisca- a miracle to say the least. This young teenage girl suffered from a condition called Noma. Noma is a disorder that causes sudden, rapidly progressive tissue destruction. The mucous membranes (e.g., gums, lining of the cheeks) become inflamed and develop ulcers . The infection spreads from the mucous membranes to the skin. The tissues in the lips and cheeks die. Rapid, painless tissue breakdown continues and this gangrenous process can destroy the soft tissue and bone. After multiple surgeries and some very bleak days, Francisca is healing and has blossomed into a beautiful, happy, giggly young girl. Pray for her as she will have many days of adjustment after her time here on Mercy Ships.

"My boys": From left, Daniel, Robert and Fredrick looking out at the ships in the harbor.

Daniel's tro-tro! I have had many many rides on this. We always go round and round in circles up on deck and make up cities and little places that we "are going to". Daniel is still here on board as his hand still needs healing before he can go home. A couple years ago, Daniel fell into hot oil and was badly burned. He has lost parts of his fingers and had burn contractures. If he went home now, the risk of infection would be great- and there would not be any medical followup for him in his area. So for now, he gets daily dressing changes and in the meantime, we play on Aft deck, wear out the UNO card game and watch lots of movies. He has taught me the majority of my African songs and I have taught him nursing skills :)

Daniel's friend below is Joseph. He was first seen by Mercy Ships 10 years ago for a palatoplasty. He is a kind young man and has been a great addition to the pediatric patients we have on board. His mom, Merci, and I have had some great conversations. She is a devout believer and has such a kind and gentle spirit. I have really enjoyed getting to know them.