First clinical day

This was quite a day. Quick rundown due to lack of time.

At 7:30 we went for devotions with many of the hospital staff. We loved it even if we didn't understand anything. The music was great, with traditional drums and a bass drum made from a 55 gallon drum with a skin stretched over the end.

Clinic started about 8:15 and lasted all day, we did cases through the day as well. The pathology we saw was unbelievable for the first day. So far we have seen typical hernias and thyroid disease, but also two large rectal cancers with significant complicating pelvic problems, a stenosis of a colostomy placed due to imperforate anus, a large no very large tumor involving the shoulder of a two year old, and a huge cystic hygroma on a two month old.

Today I performed a c section, bilateral hernia repair, chest tube for fluid, revision of colostomy, and assisted Warren Cooper with the removal of the cystic hygroma. That was a very urgent case because of a severely compromised airway. I am afraid this child may not make it, the mass was very large and we couldn't remove it all.

Gregg's wife Gina is the star as she spent the day with patients and their families encouraging them and praying with them. She is the one who made the greatest impact and was a blessing to all.

Keep us in prayer as this is the most challenged I have been on our trips.

Mark and Mary