Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Update on Joy and Faith


Faith’s fever continued throughout the day Tuesday and the staff began to fear she had Malaria. The doctor didn’t take a blood test in the morning because he was certain the fever was caused by the flu that is plaguing Malawi. Faith was taken back to the clinic Tuesday night for a blood test and diagnosed with Malaria 3+. This is a very serious form of Malaria. She contracted it in her village prior to her arrival at Good Samaritan. We are so thankful that the Lord lead us to her when he did because her family would not have been able to get her to the hospital in time for the anti-malaria treatment. Faith is receiving this life saving treatment now, and responding well. She still has a loss of appetite, but otherwise is improving.

Joy was suffering from severe constipation and worms. Her stomach became so distended that she was unable to swallow food. She was given treatment for the worms and a suppository. Her constipation has resolved and she is much more comfortable, and probably a pound or two lighter. She is receiving a high protein porridge along with a specialized food program that has her eating every three hours during the day. So far they haven’t found a food that she doesn’t like.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

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