Ali--
I have tears streaming down my face as I write this. I echo your grief in this situation. I took care of this baby during the two days that he was on ship getting radiology tests. I sat with him and fed him from a little med cup and tried to time it so that he would be able to swallow ok in between the seizures. His mama, ever-patient, just glowed with a mother's love and kept expressing how grateful she was for everything that we were doing.
I can't say that I'm surprised that we are unable to operate on him, but it breaks my heart nonetheless. I'm so glad that you were able to take the time to pray over her and bless her, and to remind her that she is not walking alone. She is a brave woman and mother, but it also takes great bravery and strength to be the bearer of bad news while speaking the truth in love. And you did that here.
Just love you Ali and your amazing heart for others. My own heart hurts for that family and for all the komi's the Africa Mercy crosses paths with. I pray for strength and peace in your life today. Big hugs my friend.
Your direct-from-heart accounts often bring tears to my eyes. Reading blogs such as yours brings home the reality of mission work. It's not glamorous, but many times arduous and heart-breaking,if I'm assessing correctly. However, I'm glad as is God, and all those people who find hope through you and your team, that you lift your limbs every single day to put faith into action, despite the heartache. I don't know why babes suffer, mamas hurt and dads carry this pain? But somehow all this stirs an even greater longing for Him whose mind is higher than ours. The pain here makes the promise of a sorrow-less future in heaven a desired necessity. I believe that for all the tears that you cry here over these patients and their families, you will find as much joy there in eternity at the fruit of your labour. I also pray that God renew your strength and add more joy to you daily, as you extend his love and kingdom through you. Amen.
P. S.: Your tears are held in the hand of our Saviour. God is being glorified in you.