We are so thankful for freedom and independence! Personally, for Scottie's recovery and ability to once again do everything on his own; publicly, for our ability as a people to live in a democracy in a land of plenty.
On Saturday morning, we plan to visit the Mosop Orphanage, which is a different one than last year's, Umoja. The Mosop Orphanage is about 30 minutes away, as opposed to just a few minutes, but it will be nice to get a flavor for something a little different. The kids have brought lots of goodies, including "Silly Bands," and they are very excited to play with the children. We're also hoping to hike down to the hydroelectric dam, on the Nangores River, on Saturday afternoon.
On Sunday, for the For the Fourth of July, we are planning to join in the celebration at the Kipange, (an open-air gathering place, kind of like a big carport with vaulted ceiling) . Two basketball goals are set up there, and it's a fun place to burn off energy. Last year, we missed the festivities, as we were on safari. Apparently, there will be a cookout with games and water balloons. Also on Sunday, I will yet again, attempt to play in the Praise Band here. Last week, I figured out that when I stand next to someone who's really good, they are able to drown me out :) Russ White usually leads, (though I believe they take turns). Yes, he is a man of many talents!
On Monday, July 5th, we're beginning our trek home. John or Gerald will take us back to Nairobi, where we hope to visit the Giraffe Center along the way. We'll stay at the Mennonite Guest House that evening and leave very early on Tuesday morning for the airport. We're still planning on going home via an extended stay in London, (We looked into rescheduling our flights, but due to World Cup Soccer, Wimbledon and our last minute changing of plans, the tickets were astronomical!). We plan on meeting Mom over there, so please pray for her safe travels as well. We will part ways with Marcie in Amsterdam, as she will continue on to Atlanta to meet her husband, Bruce. Please pray for all of us in our many travels.
We hope that you all have a safe and relaxing weekend, and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, too. Thank you again, for all of the uplifting words of encouragement. We love and miss you all! Ave, Scottie, Wallace, Glenn, Hugh and Marcie
"Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God."
1 Peter, 2:16
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Make a Joyful Noise
Well, it looks like we've finally turned the corner. As of last night, Scottie is now eating normally again. He had some of Janet's chicken chipatis & ugali chips with guacomole and salsa, (basically, soft tacos and chips) and fresh pineapple & bananas. He said it was the best meal he can remember eating in a long time. As of Monday, he even began Morning Reports and Rounds. He gave a lecture on Monday (on Necrotizing Enterocolitis), another one today (on Patent Ductus Arteriosus) and will give one on Friday (on Perinatal Asphyxia). He is basically back in the swing of things, except he has not been taking call. He's definitely moving slower, but feeling ever so blessed for all of the answered prayers. Please keep them coming for a complete recovery.
As mentioned earlier, Janet is with us again this year, as is Cecilia. Janet picked right back up where she left off, making Scottie meals that are gluten-free and smiling every step of the way. Since last year, she has had a baby; a boy, Emmanuel. He is adorable, and the kids and I have really enjoyed getting to know him.
Cecilia is helping with the household chores, freeing us to get involved in missions. Cecilia, like Janet, is so dear to us, and it has been a true joy to spend time with both of them again. It's hard to believe our time together is nearing and end. We thank God for bringing them into our lives, and once again, it will be hard to say, "good-bye."
Additionally, it has been a treat to reconnect with Peter Ronoh, the man who made such awesome swords for Hugh last year. He is still always sporting a huge smile and no shoes. When we first saw Peter this year, Hugh spotted him from about 50 yards away and ran with open arms into his, screaming (in Hugh style) "Peeeteeer!". Watching this bond of friendship reunite in such an unrehearsed, heart-warming way, is a memory I will never forget. Peter immediately turned to the man he was talking to and said, "This is my friend. Hugh, from America." Since then, naturally, Hugh has persuaded Peter to make him a "Rungu." Decorative as it is, it is still a weapon. Hugh is delighted.
In terms of getting involved in the hospital community, we're trying to immerse ourselves into the community as best we can this year, given our set of circumstances. The girls and I have gone to the NICU and rocked babies; We're planning a trip to the orphanage, and the kids went around the hospital today, performing a puppet show. Last year, they used church-borrowed puppets (brought over by the Hollands) and an ipod dock to do the show. This year, however, they had the missionary children in their art class make sock puppets, (by sewing on yarn and buttons), and they decided to sing for the music. Of course, they felt the need for "back up music," so they persuaded me to play the guitar. To introduce themselves to the patients, Janet and Cecilia helped us write down what the kids wanted to say to the patients (in Kipsigis), and the kids were going to try to recite it. As you can imagine, with our southern accents, it was quite comical. Needless to say, between the dancing socks, the button eyes getting stuck in some of the performers' hair, the in and out of the children's singing voices, the poor guitar playing and the communication gap, it was like Johnny Goodnight's. Cheering up the patients was not an issue! The "traveling minstrels" visited the Pediatric & Opthamology Wards, and did an "outdoor performance" by the courtyard as well. They had a great time and really brought some smiles to the faces of some very sick people.
Not much more today, but we'll post again soon.
All our love, Ave, Scottie, Wallace, Glenn, Hugh & Marcie
"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord."
Psalm 100:1
As mentioned earlier, Janet is with us again this year, as is Cecilia. Janet picked right back up where she left off, making Scottie meals that are gluten-free and smiling every step of the way. Since last year, she has had a baby; a boy, Emmanuel. He is adorable, and the kids and I have really enjoyed getting to know him.
Cecilia is helping with the household chores, freeing us to get involved in missions. Cecilia, like Janet, is so dear to us, and it has been a true joy to spend time with both of them again. It's hard to believe our time together is nearing and end. We thank God for bringing them into our lives, and once again, it will be hard to say, "good-bye."
Additionally, it has been a treat to reconnect with Peter Ronoh, the man who made such awesome swords for Hugh last year. He is still always sporting a huge smile and no shoes. When we first saw Peter this year, Hugh spotted him from about 50 yards away and ran with open arms into his, screaming (in Hugh style) "Peeeteeer!". Watching this bond of friendship reunite in such an unrehearsed, heart-warming way, is a memory I will never forget. Peter immediately turned to the man he was talking to and said, "This is my friend. Hugh, from America." Since then, naturally, Hugh has persuaded Peter to make him a "Rungu." Decorative as it is, it is still a weapon. Hugh is delighted.
In terms of getting involved in the hospital community, we're trying to immerse ourselves into the community as best we can this year, given our set of circumstances. The girls and I have gone to the NICU and rocked babies; We're planning a trip to the orphanage, and the kids went around the hospital today, performing a puppet show. Last year, they used church-borrowed puppets (brought over by the Hollands) and an ipod dock to do the show. This year, however, they had the missionary children in their art class make sock puppets, (by sewing on yarn and buttons), and they decided to sing for the music. Of course, they felt the need for "back up music," so they persuaded me to play the guitar. To introduce themselves to the patients, Janet and Cecilia helped us write down what the kids wanted to say to the patients (in Kipsigis), and the kids were going to try to recite it. As you can imagine, with our southern accents, it was quite comical. Needless to say, between the dancing socks, the button eyes getting stuck in some of the performers' hair, the in and out of the children's singing voices, the poor guitar playing and the communication gap, it was like Johnny Goodnight's. Cheering up the patients was not an issue! The "traveling minstrels" visited the Pediatric & Opthamology Wards, and did an "outdoor performance" by the courtyard as well. They had a great time and really brought some smiles to the faces of some very sick people.
Not much more today, but we'll post again soon.
All our love, Ave, Scottie, Wallace, Glenn, Hugh & Marcie
"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord."
Psalm 100:1
Friday, June 25, 2010
Hakuna Matata (Kiswahili for No Worries)
From the looks of this photo, it is clear that Scottie is either on the mend or highly drugged. I note this based on the pink "Snuggie" and equally pink blanket he is confidently sporting.
It is Friday, four days post-op., and he is eating rice and peanut butter crackers, (gluten free, of course!) . We'll continue to pray a speedy recovery and a hearty appetite. He has nearly 15 pounds to put back on, so it will be a challenge. Tomorrow is our anniversary. Most folks around here have gone on safari for the weekend, including Marcie. (We decided to cancel ours this year for fear of being too far from Tenwek and having the stitches accidently come undone with the jostling of the jeep. Additionally, I am still not jazzed up about safari this year, given my experience with last year's food poisoning escapade.) We'll be "chillin" this weekend. Love to all, Ave & co.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Ndovu (Elephant in Kiswahili)
Ndovu is the name of our apartment. The "elephant in the room" is Scottie. He came back late this morning, shuffling as he walked and without the IV! He's had chicken broth and clear liquids and is slowly on the mend. Please continue the recovery prayers.
The girls taught another art class today, and their "theme" was the story of Noah and the Ark. They had nine children today, and from the few minutes I stepped in to observe, it looked like they had it under control. Even Hugh had a great time. They read the scripture, helped the kids paint pictures and finished up with face painting. They're really enjoying their "ministry."
Tonight, we're planning to watch the US play Algeria in World Cup Soccer and take it easy. Scottie should get stronger each day, and I know Marcie is ready to get back to the NICU here. Personally, I'm looking forward to not sleeping on a gurney tonight. Until next time, all our love, Ave & co.
The girls taught another art class today, and their "theme" was the story of Noah and the Ark. They had nine children today, and from the few minutes I stepped in to observe, it looked like they had it under control. Even Hugh had a great time. They read the scripture, helped the kids paint pictures and finished up with face painting. They're really enjoying their "ministry."
Tonight, we're planning to watch the US play Algeria in World Cup Soccer and take it easy. Scottie should get stronger each day, and I know Marcie is ready to get back to the NICU here. Personally, I'm looking forward to not sleeping on a gurney tonight. Until next time, all our love, Ave & co.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Wolu Jehova Sautikyok (Kipsigis for God is Answering Our Prayers)
It is evident that God is answering all of our prayers. It is also clear that it's on His time. Last night, I slept on a gurney next to Scottie in the hospital, as once again, Marcie held down the fort. Scottie had a minor delay in responding to weaning himself from medical treatments, but as of this morning is on the mend. It was a long and restless night, but today he is slowly walking down the halls (with his IV drip), coming off the morphine and becoming more independent again. He made me laugh when he said he was tired of all the "redundant hospital gown!" (a play on "redundant tissue," referring to the surgery). Our prayer is that he can possibly sleep at the apartment tomorrow, if he can get off the narcotics and be a bit more mobile. Please continue to pray for a speedy, healthy recovery.
As for the kids, they are doing quite well. Last night, after a game of flashlight tag with the other kids, they played cards with Marcie and went to bed late. Naturally, that was the "adult plan," to get them to sleep in this morning. Mission accomplished. It is now 10:30 am here, and as they continue to sleep, we will try to rest and re-coop a bit from last night. It's kind of like camp, minus the hospitalization. Wallace said, "It's like Dad's in the infirmary."
In the Guest House before Scottie's surgery, a bunch of us (including Scottie) played Taboo and The Settlers of Catan (a new but fun one for us), and have watched several games of World Cup Soccer. At one point on Sunday, I thought I was alone, so I started playing "at" my guitar. I was in the middle of Amazing Grace when I looked up and noticed 6 nationals along the fence listening in! I was totally embarrassed, but I figured they wouldn't know how bad I really was :) Before I knew it, others sat beside me and sang along to Prince of Peace and Lord I Lift Your Name on High. Talk about stepping out of the box! God is definitely working over here, because I really do not play well.
Additionally, while I was with Scottie yesterday, Wallace organized an art class for some of the missionary kids. She had 10 kids in her "class" and they made Salvation Bracelets. Apparently, Glenn was her "assistant," and they are planning to teach another one on Wednesday. For the girls, it's not the same without Emma, Claire and Courtney, but they are finding new friends in the Bemms and having the Whites and Crognalies here again has also been a blessing. This year, Glenn continues hunting for camelions and climbing trees in search of avacados and bananas. Meanwhile, Hugh misses the Roberts boys and Levi and Jeremiah Galat, but has again sought out Peter to carve swords for him. He has also found a buddy named Todd. The problem is that Todd is 23 years old and may not need a "Dennis the Menace" following him around everywhere, especially as he tries to get work done. However, Todd has been a lifesaver. He's here for a year (been here 6 months already) and is a Yale graduate in Engineering from CA, overseeing the Intern Housing Building Project here. It's inspiring to see so many young people dedicating themselves to Christ's work.
Not too much more, except to say how thankful we are for all of the thoughts and prayers. In spite of everything that's happening surgically, we are having a good time. Scottie sends his best to everyone and hopes to add his thoughts to the blog soon. Until next time. Ave
“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)
As for the kids, they are doing quite well. Last night, after a game of flashlight tag with the other kids, they played cards with Marcie and went to bed late. Naturally, that was the "adult plan," to get them to sleep in this morning. Mission accomplished. It is now 10:30 am here, and as they continue to sleep, we will try to rest and re-coop a bit from last night. It's kind of like camp, minus the hospitalization. Wallace said, "It's like Dad's in the infirmary."
In the Guest House before Scottie's surgery, a bunch of us (including Scottie) played Taboo and The Settlers of Catan (a new but fun one for us), and have watched several games of World Cup Soccer. At one point on Sunday, I thought I was alone, so I started playing "at" my guitar. I was in the middle of Amazing Grace when I looked up and noticed 6 nationals along the fence listening in! I was totally embarrassed, but I figured they wouldn't know how bad I really was :) Before I knew it, others sat beside me and sang along to Prince of Peace and Lord I Lift Your Name on High. Talk about stepping out of the box! God is definitely working over here, because I really do not play well.
Additionally, while I was with Scottie yesterday, Wallace organized an art class for some of the missionary kids. She had 10 kids in her "class" and they made Salvation Bracelets. Apparently, Glenn was her "assistant," and they are planning to teach another one on Wednesday. For the girls, it's not the same without Emma, Claire and Courtney, but they are finding new friends in the Bemms and having the Whites and Crognalies here again has also been a blessing. This year, Glenn continues hunting for camelions and climbing trees in search of avacados and bananas. Meanwhile, Hugh misses the Roberts boys and Levi and Jeremiah Galat, but has again sought out Peter to carve swords for him. He has also found a buddy named Todd. The problem is that Todd is 23 years old and may not need a "Dennis the Menace" following him around everywhere, especially as he tries to get work done. However, Todd has been a lifesaver. He's here for a year (been here 6 months already) and is a Yale graduate in Engineering from CA, overseeing the Intern Housing Building Project here. It's inspiring to see so many young people dedicating themselves to Christ's work.
Not too much more, except to say how thankful we are for all of the thoughts and prayers. In spite of everything that's happening surgically, we are having a good time. Scottie sends his best to everyone and hopes to add his thoughts to the blog soon. Until next time. Ave
“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)
Otestai Osaa (Kipsigis for Continue Prayers)
A quick update and sigh of relief... It's 3:30 pm here (8:30 am EST) and about 2 hours ago, Scottie moved from Post Op. to the step down observation, where I believe he will stay for a few days. He woke up and the first thing he said was, "Praise Jesus." He's slowly coming back around, and we are asking for continued prayers for recovery. He's in the Ortho. wing in the only private room. The kids and Marcie are doing well, and we will update later. Love and thanks to all, Avery
Ilosunot Jeiso (Praise God, in Kipisigis)
It is currently Monday, June 21 at 11:45 in the morning here. Back home, it's about 4:45 am and everyone is still sleeping. With friends and family around the globe covering us in prayer, (literally around the clock), our prayers are truly being heard. Scottie went in for surgery early this morning and is now just out of the OR and coming out of anesthesia in observation. It took nearly two hours and it was no outpatient abdominal surgery. I was in the OR with them nearly the whole time, (except when it got too hot and I got a little weak on my stomach - I stepped out to get crackers and a Sprite). It was absolutely amazing. The skilled hands and compassionate bedside manner of Russ White is something for which we will always be eternally grateful. The assistance he had was beyond professional. They prayed over Scottie and boosted my spirits as well. About the actual surgery... Wow.
After 17 years of "being married to medicine," for the first time ever, I actually wished I had gone to medical school, as well. Fascinating, is all I can say. When they used the term "Mega Colon," they were not exaggerating. Apparently, a "normal" collapsed colon is about 3 cm, and would cause room for concern around 10 cm. It would more than likely burst around 15 cm. Scottie's "normal" was about 15 cm and when dilated, ~25 cm. It looked like a huge water balloon in there, and it would flip over on itself, leaving years of scar tissue. Once it was resected, it sincerely reminded me of a very large placenta. It had a life of it's own! The final stitching seemed like a piece of cake, comparatively. I took lots of pictures, but thought they may repulse many blog viewer friends, so I used restraint. The Sigmoid Vulvulous was so big it was nearly falling out of the pan it was in, but it was passed around none-the-less to different doctors to view, each amazed at it's appearance. After witnessing the surgery today, there is no doubt in my mind at all that God led us here for this. Dr. White was who Scottie was meant to see.
I took the pictures back to the apartment mid-surgery (while getting crackers) and showed them to Marcie and the kids. Wallace was a little disgusted, but Hugh and Glenn found them to be quite intriguing. I suppose Marcie has just learned to expect the unexpected with this Cameron Crew by now. Again, she has been a true blessing to us during this time, and I thank God for sending her with us. Scottie should be waking up in and hour or so, and he will need a few days of observation, I think. Of course, as I hear any changes, I will certainly keep updating the blog.
The hospital here has a "courtyard" of sorts, where patients and families gather to get sunlight, rest or wait. I was sitting there by myself, just after they took Scottie back to begin the prep for the surgery. I quietly retreated to prayer and didn't think anyone would notice me. However, when I looked up a few minutes later, there was a group of strangers praying beside me. Shortly thereafter, multiple physicians and folks we have met here stopped to tell me they were praying for Scottie. I realize in the US this whole "HIPPA violation" thing has two sides, but over here, in this supportive community, people are actually praying for the patient, not talking about it. How reassuring it is to have people you don't even know stop and tell you you're in their prayers and really mean it!
Please continue praying for a healthy, speedy recovery. And who knows, maybe he will even be able to eat Krispy Kremes again someday soon!? We miss and love you but know you are here in spirit. God's Peace, Ave
"But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings." Mal 4:2
After 17 years of "being married to medicine," for the first time ever, I actually wished I had gone to medical school, as well. Fascinating, is all I can say. When they used the term "Mega Colon," they were not exaggerating. Apparently, a "normal" collapsed colon is about 3 cm, and would cause room for concern around 10 cm. It would more than likely burst around 15 cm. Scottie's "normal" was about 15 cm and when dilated, ~25 cm. It looked like a huge water balloon in there, and it would flip over on itself, leaving years of scar tissue. Once it was resected, it sincerely reminded me of a very large placenta. It had a life of it's own! The final stitching seemed like a piece of cake, comparatively. I took lots of pictures, but thought they may repulse many blog viewer friends, so I used restraint. The Sigmoid Vulvulous was so big it was nearly falling out of the pan it was in, but it was passed around none-the-less to different doctors to view, each amazed at it's appearance. After witnessing the surgery today, there is no doubt in my mind at all that God led us here for this. Dr. White was who Scottie was meant to see.
I took the pictures back to the apartment mid-surgery (while getting crackers) and showed them to Marcie and the kids. Wallace was a little disgusted, but Hugh and Glenn found them to be quite intriguing. I suppose Marcie has just learned to expect the unexpected with this Cameron Crew by now. Again, she has been a true blessing to us during this time, and I thank God for sending her with us. Scottie should be waking up in and hour or so, and he will need a few days of observation, I think. Of course, as I hear any changes, I will certainly keep updating the blog.
The hospital here has a "courtyard" of sorts, where patients and families gather to get sunlight, rest or wait. I was sitting there by myself, just after they took Scottie back to begin the prep for the surgery. I quietly retreated to prayer and didn't think anyone would notice me. However, when I looked up a few minutes later, there was a group of strangers praying beside me. Shortly thereafter, multiple physicians and folks we have met here stopped to tell me they were praying for Scottie. I realize in the US this whole "HIPPA violation" thing has two sides, but over here, in this supportive community, people are actually praying for the patient, not talking about it. How reassuring it is to have people you don't even know stop and tell you you're in their prayers and really mean it!
Please continue praying for a healthy, speedy recovery. And who knows, maybe he will even be able to eat Krispy Kremes again someday soon!? We miss and love you but know you are here in spirit. God's Peace, Ave
"But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings." Mal 4:2
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Father's Day
A quick update on Scottie...He came to the apartment for the first time last night (Friday) around 10:30. He rested, drank lots of clear liquids and had the Barium Enema today, (they used dye to light up the problem area). Today he started the "special juice" to get things ready for Monday morning's surgery, (It will take place while you're sleeping, so pray before you go to bed on Sunday evening!). Sunday, Father's Day, will be a day of rest - a day he truly needs.
We've relaxed this evening, hanging out in the guest house (which is like a college dorm!), playing cards and board games and watching the World Cup, currently going on in South Africa. The majority of the folks staying in the guest house are college-aged or right out of college, (even an ortho. dad and his 16 year old daughter from AL), making us "feel young." We're having a great time and truly keeping our minds off of the surgery. This afternoon, several of us sat around playing the guitar, singing and trading "picking secrets." Of course, I had very little to offer, but it was fun, none-the-less. Scottie has gotten a charge out of watching Hugh as the "guest house bookie," dealing the cards, taking in the odds and rolling the dice on command. The girls and Marcie have played endless rounds of cards, taken lots of pictures and planned the "art class activities" for the upcoming week. Just trying to unwind a bit. We will post again on surgery day. Pray for success, Happy Father's Day and love to all. Ave
We've relaxed this evening, hanging out in the guest house (which is like a college dorm!), playing cards and board games and watching the World Cup, currently going on in South Africa. The majority of the folks staying in the guest house are college-aged or right out of college, (even an ortho. dad and his 16 year old daughter from AL), making us "feel young." We're having a great time and truly keeping our minds off of the surgery. This afternoon, several of us sat around playing the guitar, singing and trading "picking secrets." Of course, I had very little to offer, but it was fun, none-the-less. Scottie has gotten a charge out of watching Hugh as the "guest house bookie," dealing the cards, taking in the odds and rolling the dice on command. The girls and Marcie have played endless rounds of cards, taken lots of pictures and planned the "art class activities" for the upcoming week. Just trying to unwind a bit. We will post again on surgery day. Pray for success, Happy Father's Day and love to all. Ave
Friday, June 18, 2010
Poop DOESN"T Happen...
Well, here we are again at Tenwek Hospial in Bomet, Kenya. As we flew away from RDU, Hugh said, "Look at how everything gets smaller as we go away from it!". With reflection, I realize he was so insightful. The things that seem so big and important on a day to day basis really are so small in the scope of life. This trip so far, has not been without its kinks, and I use the term literally.
As most of our family and friends know, after 13 years of struggle, last year Scottie was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. While in medical school at UNC, he was told he had Irritable Bowl Syndrome. During Residency and Fellowship at Johns Hopkins, he had various trials and errors, from X-rays and an MRI, to a Colonoscopy, and a possible Herschrungs (sp?) theory. Yet, during all of the testing back then, one thing we did discover was that he has an impressive amount of excess colon. We hypothesized many times over regarding the possibilities and probabilities, while working around many confounders. However, we never quite finalized a true diagnosis. Finally, once in Fayetteville and after having a complete evaluation, he got the diagnosis of Celiac. All of this answer seeking stemmed from the fact that he is often afflicted with abdominal pain. We even charted out a pattern, thinking the episodes were stress related. Since the Celiac diagnosis, he has followed a strict Gluten Free diet. Yet, on at least 5 separate serious occasions this past year, while on the gluten-free diet, these bouts of cramping have still occurred. Usually, he would roll around on the floor and was successfully able to get the pain to subside, but this time we weren't so lucky.
And so, we left for Africa on Tuesday morning, and Scottie had been hurting a little for a few days prior to that. Again, we figured it was the same old problem and due to the stress of the preparations for the trip, our "pattern" theory was right on schedule. As we got a little further into our trip, the pain worsened. Leaving from Detroit to Amsterdam, he began complaining a little more and my dumb theory of the elevation "blowing up his belly" like it does plastic bottles didn't really hold for long. Once we had arrived in Amsterdam, we had a problem on our hands. Non of us had slept in a day or so and by now, Scottie hadn't eaten in two days. His belly was distended and felt hard to the touch and he was in more pain than I'd seen him in in quite some time. Keep in mind, Marcie Williams (a NICU nurse from back home was with us...thankfully). We played with the idea of getting a taxi and a hotel in Holland and going to an emergency room or even trying to reconfigure all 6 tickets to turn around and head back. We were two-thirds of the way into our trip, the flights for the next two days were packed, and it would have taken longer to turn around than it would have to go on to Nairobi, Kenya, an 8 hour flight. We also knew that John & Gerald (our Samaritan's Purse drivers from last year) would be waiting for us at the Nairobi airport. We knew between the two of them, the Guest House where we'd be staying, and all of the faces of folks we knew from last year's trip would be able to direct us better as to what to do from there. We pressed on. As the flight continued, Scottie's belly grew. He was moved up to first class to stretch out (which he later said he was sad he couldn't enjoy) and again didn't eat or sleep. We arrived in Kenya around 9 pm on Wednesday evening, and after getting our 18 pieces of luggage, we headed to the Guest House, inquiring about the Nairobi Hospital along the way. Our hope was that if Scottie could stretch out and maybe roll around on the floor a bit (like he always had in the past), that this thing would resolve itself again. Throughout the night, he never could lie down or sleep and by this point, he truly looked pregnant. By 5 in the morning, we had called a taxi and were headed to the ER in Nairobi.
Graciously, Marcie came over to our room and stayed with Wallace and Glenn, while we took Hugh with us. After arriving in the ER, Scottie was seen as "the American doctor needing help," (he was wearing his scrubs - for comfort - and his skin tone helped as a give-away!). He got an X-Ray and was given 2 different types of enemas, neither of which worked. Meanwhile, God was good, as Hugh slept for nearly 4 hours on a gurney. None of us had slept in 3 days, and by this point, Scottie hadn't eaten anything and had very little to drink. The X-Ray showed what we'd hypothesized and feared. He had a Sigmoid Volvulus, which is basically a kink in his colon. The way I described it to the kids was to say it's like a garden hose that gets a knot in it and makes it so that the water can't pass through it. The "extra colon" that had been detected back at Hopkins had finally turned on itself worse than ever before, and this time it couldn't be flipped back over by rolling around on the floor. The surgeon in Nairobi told us Scottie would need surgery.
This is making for a long blog entry, but the entire thing has totally been God-driven, and it needs the explanation it deserves. By this point, Gerald (one of our two driver friends) was at the Guest House to take us via van to Tenwek hospital (~3 1/2 hours down the road, like last year) but kindly decided to stay with Marcie and the girls until notified. Meanwhile, John (our other S.P. driver friend) had driven over to meet us at the hospital and sit with us. Gerald had contacted Lu Lu (the S.P. coordinator in Nairobi) who had gone on to contact Robin Jenkins (the S.P Logistics coordinator in Boone, NC). The phone tree continued, and we were surrounded in prayer. There was not room in the Mennonite Guest House for us that evening, so they had planned to move us to the S.P Guest House for a night, because the next night it too would be full. They were trying to make other arrangements for us when Scottie decided he wanted to try to speak with either Dr. Russ White or Dr. Carol Spears at Tenwek before making any final decisions. (Thankfully, he had worked with both of them last year and respects both of their opinions.). We were afraid both surgeons would be on furlough, and as it turned out, Carol will be back next week. Russ, however, had just gotten back from a trip and had been to work a day or so before we arrived. He is leaving for furlough to Providence, RI, for 10 months at the end of July. Dr. White told Scottie to come to Tenwek and see him. The Nairobi surgeon waved his fees (as a medical courtesy to Scottie), hooked him up with some pain meds and an IV drip and sent us on our way to Tenwek. John drove us to meet the others (who by this point had already been relocated to the S.P. guest house). Everyone had already packed up all of our stuff (all 18 bags) and had food prepared for the road trip. We were on our way. About 2 hours into the trip, the pain medication began to wear off, and 45 minutes from Tenwek, the non-destructible "Mutato" van got a flat tire. Prayers began, and within 15 minutes the wheel was changed and we were again on our way. Gerald pulled right up to the ER door and there to greet us were Lisa and Gladys, smiling familiar faces from last year. We all prayed together and Scottie and I jumped out, leaving Gerald and Marcie with the kids. (They went on to unpack everything, settle in and the kids had a blast meeting with friends from last year. The apartment where we're staying this year is at the "hub" of activity - the guest house where the computer is - and it's right beside the hospital. What would we have done if we'd stayed in Amsterdam?! Or, flown back to the US, risked Scottie's health, had to wait for an appointment/doctor and driven back and forth to the hospital?! God was watching over us.)
Inside the OR, Russ greeted us and they got right to work. First, he got another X-Ray, and it was determined that the colon had doubled in size from the morning's X-Ray. Dr. White and Dr. Steve Bergert (a GI doctor who - lucky for us - just signed on as a full-term missionary here) stated that they knew this condition has been going on for quite a while because of the strength of his colon. It is considerably thicker/stronger than most, proving its elasticity and endurance. They said if Scottie had tried to fly back to the US, more than likely it would have burst. They went on to do a procedure where they flipped the colon back right side up and drained it. Today, he was feeling much better, at least prior to the colonoscopy. After that, he has been very groggy. Conclusively, it's as they suspected, the Sigmoid Volvulus. The decision now is to rest tomorrow and Sunday, getting his colon as back to "his normal" as possible, and to resect the "extra piece" of his colon on Monday. This is the crazy part. Apparently, this is a very rare condition in "young healthy men" in the US, but it is extremely common in Kenyan men! It is a "bread and butter" surgery for Dr. White, as he performs 3-4 of these here per week. In the US, (while at Brown on furlough) he typically has only seen it in "little old ladies in nursing homes," maybe as they have bowel failure. They want to give Scottie a Kenyan name!
Already, I've had a conference call of prayer with Robin Jenkins and Becky Williams in Boone, and everyone who passes us on the grounds here asks how Scottie is doing. They tell me they're praying for him, and they actually are! People are telling me how "God is a God of order" and that "God has a plan." And where else in the world would the entire OR stop before a surgery or procedure and pray over the patient?! Everywhere I walk, there's scripture on the walls and as Scottie woke up this morning (after a much needed long sleep!) he said he heard singing in the background. Yes, it's a developing country and the resources are limited, but they do sterilize the equipment and apparently, there is more resistance to staff infection here than in our hospitals back home, consequently, it's less prevalent. Are we concerned? Absolutely. We're out of our "comfort zone," but are we confident that the Lord brought us here for a reason. It is scary, but surgery is always scary. Did God give Scottie his worst bout he's ever had of this thing as we're headed to Tenwek hospital? Yes. His reason, we're not entirely sure, but we are confident that we are in excellent hands, arguably better than what we'd get back home, and certainly more spiritually. The Lord knows what He's doing, and it is up to us to trust in Him.
As I watched the doctors (yes, I watched) perform the procedure on Scottie last evening, I periodically turned away (a little much) and read the scripture on the wall beside me. It's from Isaiah 30:26. It reads, "The Lord binds up the bruises of his people and heals the wounds he inflicted." I wondered, as I stood there reading those words though my tears, why God would bring us all this way for Scottie to help heal others, but then to put him immediately on the operating table as a patient. I then thought of Luke in the Bible. He too, a physician. In Luke 4:23, God tells Luke, "Physician, heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum." It is unclear to us now, or perhaps God wanted Scottie to feel what it's like on both sides of the table. Regardless of the circumstances, we are surrounded in God's love and by His people, we will be healed. Please pray for Scottie's recovery and our safety. It is clear that once again, we will gain much more than we bring with us to give. In His Name, Avery
As most of our family and friends know, after 13 years of struggle, last year Scottie was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. While in medical school at UNC, he was told he had Irritable Bowl Syndrome. During Residency and Fellowship at Johns Hopkins, he had various trials and errors, from X-rays and an MRI, to a Colonoscopy, and a possible Herschrungs (sp?) theory. Yet, during all of the testing back then, one thing we did discover was that he has an impressive amount of excess colon. We hypothesized many times over regarding the possibilities and probabilities, while working around many confounders. However, we never quite finalized a true diagnosis. Finally, once in Fayetteville and after having a complete evaluation, he got the diagnosis of Celiac. All of this answer seeking stemmed from the fact that he is often afflicted with abdominal pain. We even charted out a pattern, thinking the episodes were stress related. Since the Celiac diagnosis, he has followed a strict Gluten Free diet. Yet, on at least 5 separate serious occasions this past year, while on the gluten-free diet, these bouts of cramping have still occurred. Usually, he would roll around on the floor and was successfully able to get the pain to subside, but this time we weren't so lucky.
And so, we left for Africa on Tuesday morning, and Scottie had been hurting a little for a few days prior to that. Again, we figured it was the same old problem and due to the stress of the preparations for the trip, our "pattern" theory was right on schedule. As we got a little further into our trip, the pain worsened. Leaving from Detroit to Amsterdam, he began complaining a little more and my dumb theory of the elevation "blowing up his belly" like it does plastic bottles didn't really hold for long. Once we had arrived in Amsterdam, we had a problem on our hands. Non of us had slept in a day or so and by now, Scottie hadn't eaten in two days. His belly was distended and felt hard to the touch and he was in more pain than I'd seen him in in quite some time. Keep in mind, Marcie Williams (a NICU nurse from back home was with us...thankfully). We played with the idea of getting a taxi and a hotel in Holland and going to an emergency room or even trying to reconfigure all 6 tickets to turn around and head back. We were two-thirds of the way into our trip, the flights for the next two days were packed, and it would have taken longer to turn around than it would have to go on to Nairobi, Kenya, an 8 hour flight. We also knew that John & Gerald (our Samaritan's Purse drivers from last year) would be waiting for us at the Nairobi airport. We knew between the two of them, the Guest House where we'd be staying, and all of the faces of folks we knew from last year's trip would be able to direct us better as to what to do from there. We pressed on. As the flight continued, Scottie's belly grew. He was moved up to first class to stretch out (which he later said he was sad he couldn't enjoy) and again didn't eat or sleep. We arrived in Kenya around 9 pm on Wednesday evening, and after getting our 18 pieces of luggage, we headed to the Guest House, inquiring about the Nairobi Hospital along the way. Our hope was that if Scottie could stretch out and maybe roll around on the floor a bit (like he always had in the past), that this thing would resolve itself again. Throughout the night, he never could lie down or sleep and by this point, he truly looked pregnant. By 5 in the morning, we had called a taxi and were headed to the ER in Nairobi.
Graciously, Marcie came over to our room and stayed with Wallace and Glenn, while we took Hugh with us. After arriving in the ER, Scottie was seen as "the American doctor needing help," (he was wearing his scrubs - for comfort - and his skin tone helped as a give-away!). He got an X-Ray and was given 2 different types of enemas, neither of which worked. Meanwhile, God was good, as Hugh slept for nearly 4 hours on a gurney. None of us had slept in 3 days, and by this point, Scottie hadn't eaten anything and had very little to drink. The X-Ray showed what we'd hypothesized and feared. He had a Sigmoid Volvulus, which is basically a kink in his colon. The way I described it to the kids was to say it's like a garden hose that gets a knot in it and makes it so that the water can't pass through it. The "extra colon" that had been detected back at Hopkins had finally turned on itself worse than ever before, and this time it couldn't be flipped back over by rolling around on the floor. The surgeon in Nairobi told us Scottie would need surgery.
This is making for a long blog entry, but the entire thing has totally been God-driven, and it needs the explanation it deserves. By this point, Gerald (one of our two driver friends) was at the Guest House to take us via van to Tenwek hospital (~3 1/2 hours down the road, like last year) but kindly decided to stay with Marcie and the girls until notified. Meanwhile, John (our other S.P. driver friend) had driven over to meet us at the hospital and sit with us. Gerald had contacted Lu Lu (the S.P. coordinator in Nairobi) who had gone on to contact Robin Jenkins (the S.P Logistics coordinator in Boone, NC). The phone tree continued, and we were surrounded in prayer. There was not room in the Mennonite Guest House for us that evening, so they had planned to move us to the S.P Guest House for a night, because the next night it too would be full. They were trying to make other arrangements for us when Scottie decided he wanted to try to speak with either Dr. Russ White or Dr. Carol Spears at Tenwek before making any final decisions. (Thankfully, he had worked with both of them last year and respects both of their opinions.). We were afraid both surgeons would be on furlough, and as it turned out, Carol will be back next week. Russ, however, had just gotten back from a trip and had been to work a day or so before we arrived. He is leaving for furlough to Providence, RI, for 10 months at the end of July. Dr. White told Scottie to come to Tenwek and see him. The Nairobi surgeon waved his fees (as a medical courtesy to Scottie), hooked him up with some pain meds and an IV drip and sent us on our way to Tenwek. John drove us to meet the others (who by this point had already been relocated to the S.P. guest house). Everyone had already packed up all of our stuff (all 18 bags) and had food prepared for the road trip. We were on our way. About 2 hours into the trip, the pain medication began to wear off, and 45 minutes from Tenwek, the non-destructible "Mutato" van got a flat tire. Prayers began, and within 15 minutes the wheel was changed and we were again on our way. Gerald pulled right up to the ER door and there to greet us were Lisa and Gladys, smiling familiar faces from last year. We all prayed together and Scottie and I jumped out, leaving Gerald and Marcie with the kids. (They went on to unpack everything, settle in and the kids had a blast meeting with friends from last year. The apartment where we're staying this year is at the "hub" of activity - the guest house where the computer is - and it's right beside the hospital. What would we have done if we'd stayed in Amsterdam?! Or, flown back to the US, risked Scottie's health, had to wait for an appointment/doctor and driven back and forth to the hospital?! God was watching over us.)
Inside the OR, Russ greeted us and they got right to work. First, he got another X-Ray, and it was determined that the colon had doubled in size from the morning's X-Ray. Dr. White and Dr. Steve Bergert (a GI doctor who - lucky for us - just signed on as a full-term missionary here) stated that they knew this condition has been going on for quite a while because of the strength of his colon. It is considerably thicker/stronger than most, proving its elasticity and endurance. They said if Scottie had tried to fly back to the US, more than likely it would have burst. They went on to do a procedure where they flipped the colon back right side up and drained it. Today, he was feeling much better, at least prior to the colonoscopy. After that, he has been very groggy. Conclusively, it's as they suspected, the Sigmoid Volvulus. The decision now is to rest tomorrow and Sunday, getting his colon as back to "his normal" as possible, and to resect the "extra piece" of his colon on Monday. This is the crazy part. Apparently, this is a very rare condition in "young healthy men" in the US, but it is extremely common in Kenyan men! It is a "bread and butter" surgery for Dr. White, as he performs 3-4 of these here per week. In the US, (while at Brown on furlough) he typically has only seen it in "little old ladies in nursing homes," maybe as they have bowel failure. They want to give Scottie a Kenyan name!
Already, I've had a conference call of prayer with Robin Jenkins and Becky Williams in Boone, and everyone who passes us on the grounds here asks how Scottie is doing. They tell me they're praying for him, and they actually are! People are telling me how "God is a God of order" and that "God has a plan." And where else in the world would the entire OR stop before a surgery or procedure and pray over the patient?! Everywhere I walk, there's scripture on the walls and as Scottie woke up this morning (after a much needed long sleep!) he said he heard singing in the background. Yes, it's a developing country and the resources are limited, but they do sterilize the equipment and apparently, there is more resistance to staff infection here than in our hospitals back home, consequently, it's less prevalent. Are we concerned? Absolutely. We're out of our "comfort zone," but are we confident that the Lord brought us here for a reason. It is scary, but surgery is always scary. Did God give Scottie his worst bout he's ever had of this thing as we're headed to Tenwek hospital? Yes. His reason, we're not entirely sure, but we are confident that we are in excellent hands, arguably better than what we'd get back home, and certainly more spiritually. The Lord knows what He's doing, and it is up to us to trust in Him.
As I watched the doctors (yes, I watched) perform the procedure on Scottie last evening, I periodically turned away (a little much) and read the scripture on the wall beside me. It's from Isaiah 30:26. It reads, "The Lord binds up the bruises of his people and heals the wounds he inflicted." I wondered, as I stood there reading those words though my tears, why God would bring us all this way for Scottie to help heal others, but then to put him immediately on the operating table as a patient. I then thought of Luke in the Bible. He too, a physician. In Luke 4:23, God tells Luke, "Physician, heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum." It is unclear to us now, or perhaps God wanted Scottie to feel what it's like on both sides of the table. Regardless of the circumstances, we are surrounded in God's love and by His people, we will be healed. Please pray for Scottie's recovery and our safety. It is clear that once again, we will gain much more than we bring with us to give. In His Name, Avery
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