Reflections from Mama and Papa McCarville

We were so lucky this month to have the opportunity to host my parents here in Chiri for a one-week visit. The fact that they made the challenging trip out here to share in our experiences was extremely special to us. And the fact that they now understand what our life is like here will make it easier to share experiences when we come home. We thank them for this wonderful gift, and hope that they had a memorable time. But instead of having me telling you about their visit… why don’t I have my parents do it…

We have just returned from our trip to Ethiopia and although we spent a lot of time on airplanes and experienced the frustrations of being in Africa, we are so glad we went. The highlight, of course, was seeing Erin and Jeff and to experience with them their daily routine – a life that is so profoundly different and more challenging than anything we experience in this country.

But in addition to the time spent with Erin and Jeff we had the powerful and moving experience of seeing first hand what they are doing at the Chiri Health Center. The extremely poor community the Center serves has a population of 100,000 – this clinic is the only facility for miles where the people can get not only basic medical care but also treatment for serious injuries and terrible diseases. Whether they come with broken bones and a severe machete wound or arrive for TB treatments, basic vaccinations or the malnutrition program, they walk for miles often carrying their children and wait hours for treatment. Simply put - if the clinic were not there, many would die.

As we enjoy the comfort and security of the health care system we have, we need to be continually reminded of the needs of people like we saw in Ethiopia and find ways to support them and provide the resources so that at least the most basic medical care is available.

Lalmba is doing just that – they are on the ground with dedicated people providing care to those in need – it truly is “A Place of Hope”.

Mark and Kathy