The Afterglow

Tison opened each gift with what can only be called--pure joy. He was as excited and joyous for everyone who got to open a gift at our home, for his first American Christmas. It was like the best day you can imagine.

When the dust settled he got three movies. He kept saying moobee. He loved the remote control car and mastered it in a short time. Our dog does not appreciate the car but Tison is enjoying the small things.

We do not have a date on his first surgery--but it could happen quickly. Meanwhile, he is enjoying moobees and his remote control car.

MooBee

English is not an easy language to master. If you come from a remote island in a far off corner of Indonesia, you will not hear English spoken. You may not even hear Bahasa Indonesia (official language) spoken either, because many of these people speak only their local dialect. Tison comes from one of these places and has done very well in his first weeks in America.

We just love the way he asks to see a movie--he calls it MooBee. He is now counting on his own in English and thinks the number eight is funny, because it also means (ate) I have finished eating. There are a number of English words that sound the same, are spelled differently and have different meanings. What a language we have.

Before going to bed each night, he is having several books read to him. He is smart and is picking up a number of new words. He is also helping us with our Indonesia. I think it is amazing how his young mind can remember words. I am a testament to how hard, it can be, for an old brain to learn a new language. I tell my Indonesian friends--Saya otak tua (I have an old brain). Words just do not stick as easily as they used to--I need more of that youthful new language glue maybe the words would stick the first time I hear them.

I have written several times about his adjustment to our ways and the climate here in the far north. I think he is doing as-well-as can be expected.

We are still awaiting the date for his first surgery. We should hear in the next day or two.

An Indonesian Taco

The adjustment to American food has and will be a test for Tison. He is doing pretty good but still looks at us like--you are going to eat THAT. We had one of my favorite meals tonight--my wife's moose taco dinner. She serves a flour tortilla that fits nicely on a plate. We had all the regulars--sour cream, onions, jalapenos, tomatoes, lettuce, moose meat mixed with re-fried beans, and cheese. She added a dish of cucumbers, sliced tomatoes, grapes and bananas. We have also learned to keep a large bowl of white rice within his reach.

Tison took a look at what was before him and decided to create his own. He first put a stack of cucumbers on his tortilla, then add lots of rice, tomatoes and a little moose and bean mix. He tried to roll it, like the rest of us. It fell apart in his hand--there was just too much rice. He gave up on it and just ate it with his hands (Indonesian style). The grapes and bananas were dessert and it was all washed down with Orange Fanta Soda. That is an "Indonesian Taco".

His host family is gone for a planned Christmas vacation, so he is staying with us. He has been a laugh every hour. Experiencing everyday life is taken in full stride. He is happy and loves movies and having books read to him. There have been no complaints, except for the six shots he got for his immunization. He goes to bed when he is told and he has his dressing on his open wound changed every day without a problem.

His first surgery could be this next week. He will begin the life changing process and could be here around a year. I see many more Indonesian tacos in his future.

The Strange Cold World

It just snowed and Tison went outside for some fun. He is in a very strange place with snow and crazy people who enjoy the outside. This is a place where your eye brows and eye lashes can frost in the cold. It happens quickly and you hardly even notice it.

Tison will be looking at his first surgery very soon. He has an open would on his right shin and it will need to be closed with skin grafting. He has had fun adjusting to his new home and getting to know the Johnson's, his host family. Once the surgeries begin he will be reminded of why he is here.

The evaluation of his ankles was very good. He has full rotation to both ankles even though they have been restricted for over three years. The contractures on the ankles need to be released and the foot could go back (or close) to normal. We have to wait to see what will be the outcome once he recovers from surgery and therapy.

Snow, Tears and Hope

Tison has hit the road running. He had to first get settled in his host family. Dr. Greg and Sue Johnson have opened their arms, hearts and home to him. He not only has his American Mom and Dad, in Greg and Sue, but he has a big brother in their son Andrew. In many ways, Andrew was the person who got this rescue started. Andrew met Tison on a trip to Indonesia in March of 2009. Andrew and his father joined a dental team from Alaska that went to our base in North Maluku, Indonesia. Andrew met Tison and built a bond with him and never forgot him. After coming home, Andrew asked about bringing Tison to Fairbanks. Then the amazing Liz Wood got her teeth into it and she moved many mountains and asked for help from her medical colleagues. Step-by-step this offer of help for Tison was becoming a reality. When Tison stepped off the plan he was in good hands. He got a good nights rest and in the morning of his first day in the arctic, he went outside without a coat, so he can feel the cold. I wonder what he thinks about all of us who choose to live up here in the cold. He is fascinated with the crazy white dust, we call snow.

He had a very good visit with his primary physician. I was amazed at how he and his doctor seemed to have immediate rapport with each other. There was laughing and smiles as he was examined. The needs are great and the surgeries will have to be planned according to priority. The prospects are very bright and he will have major improvement by the end of the year. He put on his coat, hat, a smile and went on to his next event.

Today, he got to see his family physician. He did great and was given a thumbs up in his general health. In order to go to school he has to have his immunizations. It was his first ever immunizations and he got six shots in the upper leg. There were tears when the syringes appeared in the room. The nurse did a wonderful job and gave him six shots very quickly. He wiped the tears from his face, put on his coat, pulled his hat over his ears and was on to the next event.

The last two days of adjustment have been filled with appointments, shots ( a few tears), playing the Wii with Andrew, taking pictures from Liz's I-Phone, eating American food, staying warm, imagining what school will be like. These first days have been filled with more than exams and appointments, they have been filled with hope.

Finally Here

Tison finally arrived in Fairbanks. He wore a big smile and walked into the arrival area to about 25 people welcoming him to his new home. He was joined by Hendra, his escort and translator, for the over 30 hours of travel since Jakarta. He actually took three days to get from our medical base to Jakarta--so he has been traveling a long time.

It has taken a mountain of work to get him to Fairbanks. I am amazed at how many good people we have in our community. There are many who have contributed to making this day and the next year a life changing experience a reality. Tison may not know at this time, what a offer has been given to him, but he will understand in time that this is a landmark year for him. I can't thank those involved enough for the acts of kindness to him.

Today we go to his primary doctor for his first examination and the road map for his future will become clearer. Keep him in your prayers.

Thankful

We just celebrated Thanksgiving here in America. We went to our friends home and enjoyed a big turkey dinner and lots of laughs. We sat together around the table following the meal and each of use spoke about the things we were thankful for.

Tison has not sat around a table to list the things he would be thankful for. I know he is going to be entering the most important year of his young life. He is ten years old and his year of transformation will be 2010. What a year this will be for him--he does not know, he is coming to live in a very loving home. Greg, Sue and Andrew Johnson will become his family for this year. He will have a new big brother who will tower over him at six foot three inches. Liz Wood has been a voice for him and a strong advocate for his medical treatment.

By the time this year is over, there will be many people who will have big and small parts of making this year a landmark for him. It will be fun to watch--I am sure there will be plenty of challenges along the way as well. I just want to see a little boy leave here in a year with a brighter future. That is what I will be thankful for next Thanksgiving.

Visa Awarded

The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta has awarded Tison and Hendra a visa to come to the U.S. This is really good news for all of us--many people have worked on making this possible. This is a major step forward. Tison and Hendra, his escort, will be in Alaska sometime in the second week of December. This will be a wonderful year for Tison--he will be given all the medical treatment needed to repair his burn injuries. Tison will be going to private school while he is here. He will learn a lot and make some friends. I want to thank everyone who had a part in making this possible.

Great News

I wanted to update all of you on the progress in the effort to get Tison to Alaska for the medical help being offered to him. Tison is burned over 40% of his body and has suffered a lot following the kerosene spill accident. He is so brave and has been living with his disabilities.

The amazing Liz Wood, surgical nurse and unstoppable advocate, has been the coordinator of the medical effort to treat his injures. She has been successful in finding the medical team to help him and always wildly optimistic. Dr. Greg and Susan Johnson and their son, Andrew, will be his family while he is here for the year. They will give him lots of love and welcome him to American life. The support team is in place and we are ready for Tison to come.

The team in Indonesia has performed miracles of logistics and coordination. Peter Scarborough and Hendra have never given up and have put countless hours in travel and knocking on door after door. The U.S. Embassy gave Tison an appointment for December 22. That was a long time to wait. It would put a burden on Tison’s family. His father has to go to the Embassy and authorize his travel to the U.S. Yesterday I got a note from Indonesia that said—Tison’s father wants to go back to his home. He would come back for the Embassy appointment. This presented a huge challenge. Peter asked his father to stay until next week to see if the appointment can be earlier. Today we got a note that Senator Murkowski and her staff have advocated for an earlier appointment and it was granted. The new appointment is now on November 24. This is one day following Tison’s 10^th birthday. This will be a great birthday gift for Tison.

Tison is in the city of Manado. He has never seen some of the more modern fixtures we take for granted. He went to his first mall. He was fascinated by the escalator—he road it up and down. It was like an amusement park. Imagine what he will think of snow.

Thanks for your prayers. It is fun watching miracles.

One Step at aTime

Yes--it seems like getting Tison to the U.S. is just a small step at a time. Tison's parents were able to find a Notary who would sign the "power of attorney". The problem that was confronted was to find a Notary who could sign an English document (POA). The Indonesian Notary would not notarize a document that they did not understand. We had the original document translated into Indonesian and we had a translator on site to assist the Notary and instruct Tison's family.

This is just another step closer to the goal of getting Tison to Fairbanks. It is a stretch for us in the west to see the delays and steps that have to be taken to get these documents signed and the process moving forward. We just have to be patient with the progress and thankful that it is going in the right direction.

Bumps in the Road

I have sad this many times--it is hard work helping people. The efforts to get Tison to the U.S. are moving forward. We did run into a "bump in the road". We need to have the "power of attorney" documents signed and notarized by an Indonesian Notary. We had the POA translated into Indonesian and also in English. Tison and his family went to Ternate to have the documents signed They could not find a Notary who could read English.

It looks like the best option is to go to another city and find a Notary who can read English and notarize the documents. It gets complicated sometimes. The process to get Tison to Alaska for the surgeries is full of plenty of "bumps in the road".

Tison's parents will travel to Jakarta to meet with officials at the U.S. Embassy. We want to make sure every document is in order. When Tison is awarded the visa to come to the U.S. he will have passed a number of bumps in that road. It takes a lot of effort and costs to just get him to the place where he can get the help being offered to him.

Culture Shock

Imagine the shock Tison, the nine year old Indonesian burn survivor, will have when he steps off the warm Alaska Airlines flight onto the frozen walkway into the terminal. Fairbanks Alaska is a very cold place in the winter. I have been told the he is excited about coming to Alaska. I know he is excited but he will experience a cold that he cannot even imagine.

There will be the normal culture issues to overcome. He is a really great little boy. He will be safe and cared for by his host family. I know it will be a challenge but I believe he will do very well. The cold will definitely be something he will tell his children about. Indonesians think 75 degrees F. is cold. They put on sweaters and pull the hoods over their heads.

He is an active boy and might love the winter activities. He will get to have his first real white Christmas.

We are still waiting for the appointment at the Embassy in Jakarta. When he is awarded his visa--he will be on his way to the bitter cold of the north.

Next Step

The next step for Tison, the nine year old burn victim, is to get all his letters of support to the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta. We have organized and sent all the these letters from Alaska. We sent the package by Fedex to Indonesia. This Fedex package full of the letters he needs went from Fairbanks to Anchorage to Memphis to Anchorage in four days. It winged it way to China and was in and out of the distribution center in an hour and a half before arriving in Jakarta. Finally, the letters made it to Manado.

The next stop is the U.S. Embassy. Tison, his father and Hendra, the escort, will make an appointment at the Embassy. Once the time is set at the Embassy we can begin to plan his arrival in the U.S. Tison will receive the medical treatment he needs once he gets to Alaska.

We are hopeful that he will be awarded a visa to come to the U.S. We have done everything we can do on this end and it is up tot he Embassy to do the rest.

Passport Granted

Tison recently met his parents in the city of Ternate. They had not seen each other for around a year. This was not just a get together, this was a time to set a direction for Tison's future. Tison has been at the clinic on the island of Halmahera for the past year. He is burned over 40% of his body. He has missed his parents but his village in about 200 miles from our medical base. They left him at our clinic where he receives daily treatment for his wounds. He was given a passport with the support of his parents.

He is one more step closer to getting to Fairbanks, Alaska for the medical care being offered to him. All the providers have agreed to give him the treatments he needs as charity. This is such a great chance for him to come here and get the "life changing" surgeries he needs. There are some awesome people who are willing to give their professional skills and personal support.

There are many more steps to take until he is in Fairbanks. The support letters have been sent to Indonesia. These letter will be a presented to the U.S. Embassy in support of the application to award Tison a visa. We are weeks away from the next big step--where he is granted a visa to come to the U.S.

Distinguished Service

Elizabeth (Liz) Wood is a surgical nurse who has a huge heart. She organized a monumental effort to save the life a a child, Billy Ponto, who was very ill and faced certain death. Liz arranged for the doctors, hospital, housing and even raised the money to cover all the expenses. Liz is someone who sees a need and then just finds a way to gather resources and partnerships to meet the need.

It was an honor to recognize Liz, for her heart and amazing tenacity. International Friends of Compassion presented the first Distinguished Service Award to Liz on October 14th. She was surprised and in the expected response, she minimized her part in the effort to save Billy. We all know, she did all the heavy lifting and deserves the honor.

Peter Scarborough wrote, "There are a few things that really stand out with Liz. Her compassion for people and her ability to get help for them. We have seen this particularly in the cases of Billy and Tison. Liz has seen the needs and moves mountains to respond to the needs. We here in Indonesia, want to thank Liz so much for all the amazing help she has provided, she is dependable and well worthy of the honor bestowed upon her." There are so many who love and respect Liz. Epen Akay, our friend and translator, said this, " You (Liz) are an amazing woman, with such an incredible compassionate heart. All your efforts and spirit, that you gave to save Billy Ponto's life is such an encouragement to me. It is a privilege to be able to know you. You are an inspiration!" We all agree Liz is an inspiration and deserving of the Distinguished Service Award.

Safe Lamp

In many remote regions of the world the poor use kerosene lamps to light their homes at night. A common simple wick in a can of fuel is used in millions of homes. It is very dangerous because it can easily spill and start a fire or in the process of filling the lamp it can explode. It is a serious hazard and we have seen numerous injuries due to kerosene lamp accidents. There is always a lot of pain and suffering with each burn.

IFC has arranged for two burn patients to come to the U.S. for care and a third child, Tison, is in process--all of them were injured because of the accidental mishandling of kerosene. It is a challenge because we have limited medical ability at our base to help them. We cannot do skin grafting or prosthesis. We can clean their wounds and do some therapy.

Recently, our staff heard of research on a "safe lamp" being used in Sri Lanka. I contacted the foundation and found a very helpful and awesome team working on this project. Dr. Wijaya Godakumbura worked 17 years to develop a safe kerosene lamp. I admire his work and tenacity. His hard work will prevent horrible burn injuries and even save lives. I contacted Dr. Godakunbura about the availability of purchasing or making the lamps in Indonesia. The process is in place to partner with them to bring these safe lamps to Indonesia.

I want to recommend that you take a look at their web-site and vote for them as a worthy project in "The World Challenge-09" contest conducted by the BBC, Newsweek, and Shell.

Please Log on to one of the following:

1. http://www.safebottlelamp.org and click ‘Breaking news’ on home page

2. http://www.theworldchallenge.co.uk/2009-finalists-project10.php and click ‘Vote now’

3. http://www.theworldchallenge.co.uk and click ‘Vote now’

Tison Needs Our Prayers

I got a note from Peter Scarborough asking for prayer for Tison. Tison has burns over about 40% of his body. His right leg has had an open wound on it that has a very bad infection. He has been so brave and has endured the daily changing of dressing. The hospital staff have done a wonderful job on all his wounds. He needs our prayers and support at this time.

Tison will meet with his parents tomorrow. He has not seen them for nearly a year. They will join him to apply for a passport. Once he is awarded a passport then he has to go to the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta to apply for a visa to the U.S. He has a lot of steps ahead of him. His world will change very fast.

Imagine living in a remote village in the tropics and coming to Fairbanks, Alaska in the winter for treatment. He is used to playing soccer and walking around bare-footed. He will be taken care of very well but the culture and cold will be major challenges. They think 75 degrees F. is cold--imagine minus 40 degrees. Please pray for him.

Lifting Your Voice

I have taken many short-term teams to Indonesia over the last nine years. I have traveled with some of the most amazing people. These people pay their way and volunteer their services. I make sure they are safe and have a positive experience. A 70 plus year-old woman was one of the best surprises. She did fine in the heat and had such a great attitude. A 15 year-old teenager was another great team member. She was so kind and seemed like she was perfect for this experience.

The food, culture, driving and heat can catch you by surprise. These are real challenges--especially for us from the northern regions of North America. There are plenty of obstacles to those of us who are used to all our western comforts. I am so proud of these amazing people who give of themselves and try to bless those who are less fortunate.

Then these team members go home and they try to tell their family and friends about what they experienced. It is really hard to put into words what you see and experience on these trips. Yet they try to share about the amazing people of Indonesia and their lives and culture.

I recently went to hear one of the team members share about his experiences. He was excited and I admire the way he lifted his voice for those he met in Indonesia. He told about orphans, lepers, the training of our staff and the many other experiences he enjoyed. Dr. Paul is a testimony and inspiration to me. I would love to take Paul with me again and I would love to have more like Paul. He was sick a number of days but just kept going and did everything with a smile.

Epen and Mim

I just got the official announcement today. Epen Akay and Miriam Scarborough are engaged to be married. Epen is an amazing Indonesian young man. He is the foreign team coordinator for our medical work. He has made so many friends because of his kindness and care for each person traveling to our base. Epen taught himself English and is now fluent--that is a tough task. He is my favorite translator when I speak in large meetings. He is like a friend. Epen has had enough pain in his short life for several lifetimes but has a deep faith and strength. Miriam is the daughter of Peter and Esther Scarborough, co-founders of the work, and a wonderful young woman. She was raised most of her life in Indonesia. They make a beautiful couple and will have many years of happiness. I admire both of them and I know they will be strong leaders together.

Epen as a single man has already adopted an abandoned little girl named Lestari. He is the father figure in her life. Miriam is caring for a little boy named Leigh. Leigh was near death due to malnourishment--she has nursed him to health. He is doing very well and is bonded to Miriam. Epen and Miriam are already responsible and caring people--together they will be great parents.

Epen has been interested in Miriam for many years. He has been a perfect gentleman and has respected her as he waited for the right time to move forward in their relationship. I pray the best for them.

Kalkati

It is interesting how some names are given to children. In some cases names are just given on a "try out" basis. Imagine my surprise to know that a new born was given my name. It is the Indonesian spelling of my first and last name. They called him Kalkati (pronounced Call-Kay-Tee). He was born early and was an abandoned child. He was not in very good health.

I was humbled that a "little life", a living individual was given my name. I got to hold him although he was frail and did not look well. He was fighting for his life.

When I left two weeks later he looked better and I am optimistic he was gain more strength. He has a full-time care giver who is doing a great job nurturing him. I am looking forward to seeing how he does over these next months. These are important days for him to be nurtured back to health.

Dr. Paul

Dr. Paul came to Indonesia knowing he would be there only a short time. He filled the days he had with hours of training and dental work. Neni, the dental nurse, was so amazing. She was hungry to learn and Dr. Paul kept giving her more and more opportunities. His teaching style was to show her, then let her do what he just showed her. Neni is smart and was the perfect student. She wanted to learn more and more. It was the perfect team--Dr. Paul was willing to teach her and she was eager to learn.

Dr. Paul could have pulled and filled a hundred teeth and then go home. It would have blessed a hundred people. Now Yeni can pull and fill many times the hundred teeth Dr. Paul could have filled in the time he was in Indonesia. Neni is now an extension of Dr. Paul--she will get better and better because of what she learned under his instruction.

The investment of skilled professionals in the training of our staff is invaluable. This is the model we feel is the most effective. I appreciate Dr. Paul very much--he came in with the right attitude and gave everything he had.

Baby Steps--Tison

I just got home from Indonesia. It was only a month but it seemed like two months--there was a lot accomplished. One of the most important projects in the works is bringing a nine year old Indonesian child to American for reconstructive surgery.

Tison is badly burned and needs major help. He is an awesome little boy. He is full of energy and is normal in every way except he was involved in a accidental fuel spill. He was brought to our clinic with his injuries. Tison has extensive burns on his right arm and leg. His face and upper torso is also burned. You would never know he has limitations--he just runs and plays with his friends on the base. There are now four boys living at our base who have burn injuries. Tison caught the eye of a couple volunteers who traveled there on short-term teams. A team from Fairbanks, Alaska are moving forward with efforts to get him help.

I am hopeful we can see him come to Fairbanks and get the needed surgeries. At this point it is baby steps. We are hopeful but cautious.

Beyond Reach

I have been in the remote island of Halmahera in northeast Indonesia. There is no access to the Internet there--so I have been beyond reach since the 13th of August. Today we started traveling at 1:30 a.m. It was a four hour car trip on sometimes marginal roads thru the beautiful jungle of this island. The equatorial sky was brilliant with stars this morning. Our car nearly ran out of gas but we found a light on in a home along the road and got just enough gas to get us to the port. We then got on a boat for about an hour shot across an inlet (I always love the boat) then on a public car, one hour airplane flight and another public car to our lodging. It has been a tiring but inspiring day.

There are some amazing people living at our medical base in that remote place. They have been working to serve the poor and sick for just five years now. I love coming to the base because I get to see the fruit of the work. The most touching stories are not the buildings or programs being started--it is the lives that have been rescued. This place is a rescue center. You can see it every place you go--from the little children in the care of our staff to the sick who come into our clinic and hospital. It speaks of servant-like sacrifices to meet the pressing needs of the poor and former refugees.

I would love to live on the base and see it everyday. It is seeing the people blessed by our efforts that puts my work in perspective. I am energized and focused on our important work.

I am still in Indonesia for three days. I will be coming back to the U.S. with a number of projects I need to organized. It is an honor to be a part of this work and to be partnering with selfless servants who serve without complaint everyday.

Dental Needs

In March, a dental team went to our base and treated over 100 children and then visited a public school. It was a dynamic time. The dental needs where we work are great--no one get regular dental care. Two of our staff are studying to become dentists. We want to relieve suffering of those who come with dental issues. All of us know the pain you can have when you have dental problems.

I leave in three hours for Indonesia. I will be joining a dental team. This team will be training our dental staff and will be caring for those who come to our clinic during their stay.

I admire these volunteers who give their time and pay their own way. They just want to help those who are serving the poor. This year we have had two dental teams from the U.S. who have traveled over the Pacific Ocean. The timing is good for these teams to share their knowledge and professional skills. It all translates into a better trained staff.

Living in the Smoke

I have been stranded in airports around the world for many reasons. Once I was with a team and we were delayed for three days in a row. The reason that was finally given was they had no windshield for the plane. I was glad to be on the ground. I have even seen burning planes on the runway. This year we had a flight cancel from a remote island. It was complicated by the fact that it was the only flight off the island and we had an international flight to catch in a major city. In order to make that flight we had to drive four hours on a jungle road, hire a boat to take us to another island and then hope to get a seat on another flight. It all worked and we made the international flight.

We have a new challenge here in Alaska--due to large forest fires around the city of Fairbanks. Flights have been canceled and we are scheduled to leave on Tuesday morning. Lack of visibility and ash in the air makes it dangerous to land and take-off. This will be interesting because we have very little time to play with. The team will meet in Seattle and travel together to Indonesia. There are enough obstacles in getting to Indonesia but the new one is smoke.

Team Preparation

We have just over a week before we leave for Indonesia. This short-term team will be focused on dental training, hygiene, training children workers and construction. We have a dentist, three college students, and electrical engineer and the team leader. We have a relatively short time in Indonesia and so we have to be ready to fill our time and give our best efforts. The team members on this team live in two locations and will be meeting in Seattle. We will actually come from three points and meet for the long trans-Pacific flight to Tokyo then Singapore. These are long flights and we lose a day as we land in Singapore.

This team has several personal reasons for their interest in our efforts. I know everyone of them to some degree. One of the college students has been on a previous trip when she was 15 years old. She was an awesome team member. The dentist is a friend of a friend of mine. Our friendship will deepen as we travel together and are roommates on the trip. The young people are carving out the course for their lives. They are all single and just want to experience cross-cultural settings and take a hard look at the future doors for their lives.

I love to see the openness and heart these team members have for working with the poor. They inspire all of us who do this regularly. These team members always deposit something lasting in the lives of our Indonesian staff. It might be a friendship or professional skills.

We are there for two weeks on the ground and we give everything we have in those limited days. It can be exhausting and is filled with a lot of new experiences. The food is good, the people are humble and the work is rewarding. It is well worth the investment and many miles we travel to get there and to get home.

Computer Issues

I am sure all of you have had issues with your computer. We have a satellite connection for email use at our medical base in Indonesia. It has periodic problems with connection but they usually get worked out. Recently the software and modems had to be changed. This is not a simple fix. You cannot just run to the Comp USA store and get what you need. There are no computer geeks with the needed parts just laying around. The problem had to diagnose then the parts had to be shipped. It was about three weeks in the process. We are now up and running.

I had a major attack on my computer on Saturday. I shut it down and called my computer savior. He stated it was a bad one and he would even have to chance my computer's anti-virus protection. He told me even the most popular anti-virus protection have holes. That was not good news. It is shocking to me that there are malicious people who just love harming other peoples property. I am now in the waiting mood to get the word on my computer. We do depend on these devices. I do remember when the checker at the grocery store had to punch the price of each item by hand. I guess I have computer issues.

Good News

I got a call from someone representing the Fuji T.V. Network of Japan. She was working on a proposed program which would include a testimony from Yulce. Yulce is the girl who came to the U.S. from Indonesia following her tragic burn. She received help from Dr. Peter Grossman and was transformed by the 12 surgeries in one year. She has a bright future and will be a story of hope for anyone who gets to hear about her life. Fuji wants to focus on positive programing. Yulce agreed to an interview and the production team has completed the interview.

Last week I was contacted by a magazine in the U.K. They told me that Yulce's documentary will be aired in the U.K. soon. They wanted to highlight the story of Yulce in their magazine before it aired on a U.K. network. The editor also wanted to promote positive stories.

There is so much bad news these days. It is heartwarming to have something on the air that is filled with goodness. I pray that her story will give hope to someone in Japan or the U.K. There might be someone who is ready to give up. The life of Yulce has gone all over the world to touch millions of people with the hope filled story telling everyone--do not give up. That is a greatly needed message in these days--that is good news.

Measles

We are in the middle of malaria season and now an outbreak of measles. Several of the children on our base now have measles.

Peter Scarborough wrote," Viktor had malaria before the measles, so he is pretty thin. His spots have come out and he is now fine. They start to get better once the spots come out. In our house, Lestari, Leigh, Theresa, Ami and Merna all have fevers so we expect spots to appear soon. The fevers are high and the kids miserable. It has started in the Children's Home with Moses being one of them."

Viktor is a sweet little boy. He suffered a lot in his infancy. He seems to catch everything but is a fighter. These kids are in good hands. They will be cared for and loved through the fevers and discomfort. It is still tough to watch them face the results of the measles and malaria.

Skills Needed

Peter Scarborough just send this request for skilled volunteers.

"We are currently building a staff accommodation unit and would welcome any tradesmen/women to work alongside our national so that we can quickly complete the building. Single staff are currently sharing bedrooms with up to 8 to a room. It is difficult for these staff to get adequate rest and personal space in this situation.

We would welcome anyone with the following skills:

July--September: Bricklayers, Carpenters (doors, window shutters, door and window frames), Cement workers (rendering internal walls), Plumbers.

September: Bathroom tilers, floor tilers

October:Carpenters (install 3 ply ceilings), Electricians, Painters

If you would like to volunteer your services for a few weeks or a month please contact us."

This is a greatly needed facility. It will have a men's wing and a woman's wing. This will meet the growing need for housing. The staff have been amazing and have been very flexible with the living conditions. The accommodations will make it less crowded and much better for staff.

Malaria Season

Malaria is a serious disease. It is responsible for millions of deaths annually. The mosquito carries this disease that results in high fevers, sweating and no energy.

The outbreak of malaria is seasonal. In the remote Northern Indonesian Island of Halmahera it is now malaria season. Nearly everyone on our base has had malaria--many have had it several times.

We have been out of communication for about a week due to the shutdown of our satellite connection. The last word I received was a number of children had malaria. Viktor who is five is now sick and in bed. He has had it before but it is never easy. We have to watch them carefully because of the threat to their lives.

Life at the Ends of the Earth

I-phones, email, blogs, twitter, cell phones, texting and My Space are words and communication systems that we have come to use. These words were hardly known ten years ago. I am still not on My Space or twitter. I guess I am out of touch or just too tired to get on one more new system--by the time I am figuring it out, the train has already left the station with the next new thing to replace twitter or My Space. I will just be that much further behind. It seems like trying to catch up to Michael Phelps with my best dog paddle stroke. Now with all that in mind--put yourself at the end of the world somewhere. That is the challenge we have to our communications at our medical base.

I got a note--the email is out at the base. The satellite system is not working. We now have to send the replacement hardware to get it up again. The temperamental components make it tough to stay in regular contact. There is no cell phone service and the only way to speak to someone is by SAT-Phone. Life at the ends of the earth can be challenging. Maybe the lack of communication might be nice for a few days of quiet.

Updates

Indra the child who had the hole in his heart is now in Jakarta. He was scheduled for surgery but his condition was classified as unstable. He has some swelling in his lungs. His surgery has been set for two weeks from now. This will be a major surgery to fix the hole in his heart. Thanks to the generosity of some amazing people he is able to get this surgery to change his life. He is only four years old and has a lot in his future.

Kate and Kori made it to Indonesia. They are visiting friends in Java. They had a long flight and train rides but they are doing well and excited to finally be in Indonesia. Tomorrow they should be flying to Manado and then off to our base in Halmahera. They will be immersed in the daily routines on the base. These young woman are very capable and will show good progress in the language. The language skills of our Indonesian staff will also improve due to the efforts of Kori and Kate.

Receive Compassion

I just got home form a number of days on the road. I met with a dear friend and his wife. They are great supporters of our efforts. IFC has some great supporters and friends. This is what makes this work so amazing--we have partners who lovingly give and stand with us. We have some who have stood with us from the very beginning.

I am writing today to ask for your prayers for the wife of Pastor Barry. I was scheduled to spend an afternoon with him. I got a call from him where he reported his wife had initially been diagnosed with cancer. We set our meeting for some other time. I told him we will pray for his wife as they move forward with the treatment and more testing. We are praying for a good outcome and lots of years ahead for her.

We work with people in Indonesia who come in with medical crisis issues. I was just reminded of the impact of our own medical reports. Barry and his wife are good people and we will stand with them--as they support us we now consider it an honor to support them. If you give compassion you will receive compassion.

Kori and Kate

Kori and Kate are full of enthusiasm and hopes for their stay in Indonesia. Kate is a medical student who will spend the summer at our base gaining experience in tropical diseases. Kori is a certified teacher who will be teaching English to our staff. Kori will be staying a year at the base as the English teacher. She is also gong to be going to Australia for the English as a second language course. Kate will be coming back in time to attend college in September.

We met together tonight--this was the last meeting before they depart for Indonesia. They are ready for the trip and the cultural differences they will experience. These young woman are at a prime time for this experience. They are both single and are ready for a foreign experience. They are also realistic about their time in Indonesia.

Remember them as they travel and then give everything they have to serve the staff and the poor who come to our clinic.

Another Viktor

Victor came to our clinic when he was seven months old. He was very malnourished and had sores from head-to-toe. He was is very bad shape. It took a lot of round-the-clock care for him to turn a corner. He became such a loving and sweet little boy. Viktor is almost five years old now. He is bi-lingual and loves everyone.

Peter just sent a note from the medical base and said we have another Viktor. His name is Yoshua and he is badly malnourished and covered with sores. He is 10 months old now and weighs 11 pounds (5 kilos). He was born at nearly10 pounds (4.5 kilos). In the last 10 months he has only gained one pound. Yoshua's mother has died and those who were caring for him nearly starved him to death. Miriam is taking care of him during the day. He should be able to recover in time just like Viktor. Once Yoshua gains his strength his father will take him. Peter feels it will be months before his is able to get to a normal weight and heal from the sores.

Billie is Improving

Billie is the four year old boy who went in for emergency surgery at a Manado Indonesia Hospital due to an obstruction in his bowel. He had come to Portland, Oregon when he was one year old for the needed surgery to save his life and now he was facing the same emergency. So many of you prayed and gave to help him in his latest chapter. Liz Wood made a valiant effort to organize help and monitor his care long distance. She advised the IFC medical staff and organized financial support for his medical expenses.

Esther Scarborough reported recently, "Billie is now out of the hospital! I visited yesterday morning and he was pretty uncomfortable but he did not have any tubes connected. He had not had a bowel motion for a week. I requested his discharge and the doctor agreed. We thought we would have to take him elsewhere for further tests etc to see what was holding up the works. Praise God things got moving and Billie's bowels are working. he walked into our Manado base! He looks thin but otherwise great. THANK YOU for praying for him"

We are cautiously optimistic with this news. He is improving and that is the best news we have had in weeks.

Standing On Our Own

We have been involved in relief work in North Indonesia for nine years. The heart of the work is providing free medical care to the poor. The cost of staff, facilities and medications is substantial. We plan to turn the work over to the nationals. There are 15 staff who are in accredited medical and nursing programs. These Indonesians have been selected for their compassion, academic abilities, and commitment to the future of IFC medical work. Peter and Esther Scarborough have led the selection and development of staff. They have led with grace and wisdom.

We are developing self-sustaining programs. The need for programs that pay for themselves is important for a strong future. We will always offer free medical care but where we can we are investing in ways to support ourselves. Four years ago 1100 fruiting trees were planted--there were papaya, mango, banana, rambutan, sirsak, coffee, lime, lemons, oranges, avocado and more exotic fruits like durian. We also grow cash crops of corn, egg plant and other vegetables. There are 200 coffee trees that are producing a very nice medium roast coffee. We also have a mechanics shop--it is well equipped and is a potential income base. We have a kiosk (small store) which sells to locals. There is plenty of livestock like cows, pigs, goats, chickens and ducks. We supply plenty of the food that we use--that off-sets the cost of feeding everyone.

There are also opportunities in local crafts and other small businesses. We know our future needs some "stand on our own" programs. The future is bright and doors are open to building these self-sustaining opportunities.

Listari's First Birthday

Listari has had a couple special days in her short one year of life. The first special day was when she was adopted by Epen Akay. Listari was abandoned at birth and Epen's heart went out to her--he believed he could give her a good life. Epen has never been married but he is a great father. He gives her a father image and lots of affection.

Listari just turned one year old recently. This was another special day for her. She is happy and loved. Listari means beautiful in Indonesian. She is a beautiful child and has only a bright future ahead of her. She is in a safe and nurturing environment.

It is nearly impossible for foreigners to adopt Indonesian children. A number of the children who are in our care are adopted by our Indonesian staff. They will grow up in solid homes and will have a large extended family.

Holding Our Breathe

We are praying and holding our breathe following Billie's most recent surgery. He came out of surgery very well and was looking good. The pediatric surgeon removed 15 cm of his intestines. The next days seemed fine but then he started to struggle. His stomach distended and he had no bowl movement or passage of urine. His parents were very concerned as he was not improving.

He has made slight improvements this week by passing urine. There are a lot of decisions to make by the family and our staff. He could need another surgery if his condition does not improve. This is a very serious ailment and needs to be monitored with the greatest care. It is a waiting game right now.

Surgery for Billie

Billie is four years boy who came to the U.S. for surgery for a imperforate anus when he was less than two years old. Liz Wood, a nurse from Fairbanks, led the effort and his life was saved by her coordination of all the travel, funding and medical and personal sacrifice. Billie was operated on by Dr. David Bliss of Emanuel Hospital in Portland Oregon. The professional skills and compassion of Dr. Bliss gave Billie a future. He did very well following these surgeries. He went back to Indonesia where he started a normal life.

Liz heard recently that Billie was having problems with an obstruction in the small bowl. He had a successful six hour surgery in Indonesia. He is now recovering and time will tell how he will do following this surgery.

I admire the heart and efforts of Liz as she has remained committed to Billie and his future. She is going to be in Indonesia this month and will be able to see him in person.

A Good Man Goes Home

Peter Scarborough is the Field Director in charge of almost everything but especially development and staff at the base in Kusuri. He and his wife Esther are the real heroes in the successes of the medical base. It is their vision and hard work that shaped and made possible the work. They are respected and loved by so many including all of us here in the states who know them. They are friends and partners in this effort.

Peter wrote to me about the failing health of his father over the last months. He was concerned and wanted to be near his family if his father got worse. Peter and Esther were in Australia for medical check-ups and personal leave time. Peter saw his family and it wasn't long before he knew his father was slipping physically. His Dad died on April 20 with his family near. Peter wrote he got to be there to comfort and to say the final words that have eternal meaning from the lips of a son. He told his father that he was loved and thanks for being a great father. These words are what every father desires to here from his children.

Peter is a man of character and integrity--it was modeled in the life of his father. The Scarborough family is thankful for the support and prayers for them these last months. The one comfort in these days is the assurance this father is in eternity with his God. He was a man who lived his faith and raised his family to love God. In the truest sense he was ready and has just gone home.

Teacher

Each morning at 8 a.m. on our base our staff study one hour of English. Several of them are doing very well--they just tackle this very difficult language with enthusiasm and hard work. I have taught these classes myself and enjoyed the passion some of them have to learn. Beverly Conover who was on our team in February did such a great job teaching for two weeks. She has a gift and is an inspiring teacher. She was well prepared and the students were ready to soak up her learning drills.

In June, a full-time teacher will arrive. Kori is from Alaska and has been teaching at the High School level. She is planning on being there for a year. She will work with all the staff. She will love everyone of the staff and the eagerness they have to learn. I can see them making huge gains in their language as they have systematic lessons. The bonus for Kori is--it will not be long before she will be speaking Indonesian. Living with the Indonesians and speaking their language everyday accelerates the learning process.

Off The Road

I just got back home from a two week trip. I meet some new friends and made a number of contacts in familiar places. I put on a lot of miles over the two weeks. My first stop was Idaho--I went to college in Idaho and remember the beautiful springs they enjoy. It is windy but when the sun comes out it is hard to beat. I went to Nampa and Twin Falls. I am so blessed to have the contacts and friends in those places. There are a couple friends in Idaho that I know would stand with me in my toughest time. Washington is the place of my birth. I spent time driving up and down I-5. It is a rainy place but it was only sun while I was there. One of my dearest friends lives in Southwest Washington. We have known each other sine 1981. David is such an encouragement to me. He is an example of faithfulness and integrity. He is another one of those who I know would stand with me if I needed him. I also got to see two men I had not seen in over 20 years.

I am reminded of the rigors of travel and yet the blessings. I am out making contacts with our supporters and finding new ones. I have some rich friendships and lasting friends. It means a lot to me and makes these times away from home a lot better. When I left Alaska we had three feet of snow in out front yard and now it is around two feet deep. I have to say I did enjoy the green grass warm sun.

It Is Done

Indra will get the needed surgery for the hole in his heart.

I have to thanks a couple very generous and compassionate couples for stepping forward with the needed donations. It will mean a lot to give him a future.

It amazes me that it really doesn't take much to make a difference. The average surgery costs about $ 500 USD. I recently went to the hospital for a two night stay here in the U.S. and the cost was shocking. Thankfully, that is not the case in our region of Indonesia. Esther Scarborough, IFC Medical Director, is very selective about who we can help. We do not have an endless supply of funds for surgeries but we want to respond when we can--especially to save a life.

Indra and his aunt will be traveling to Jakarta after arrangements are made to admit him into the hospital. I can see him already--he will get to play with the other children without getting too tired. He will feel so much better and his future will be bright.

That is how it works--help one person at a time.

He Has a Name

The little boy I wrote about in the last story is named Indra. He is four years old. He was abandoned by his parents and his aunt is now raising him. He is always in her arms. He has a hole in his heart and needs surgery for PDA.

He is in a difficult time as his future is in question. He cannot run and play like the other children in the camp where he and his aunt are living. The camp they live in is depressing and not a good place to live. Indra's aunt does not have a husband or children. He is her sunshine and needs to get his heart repaired soon.

So far we have raised half of what he needs for his surgery. He needs another $ 1,000 to cover the rest of the costs. We are trying to give him a normal life.

Hole in His Heart

I just got a note from IFC medical director, Esther Scarborough. She told me about a small boy (I do not have his name) who is living in a camp and needs surgery to close a hole in his heart. I got to see him because I have stopped at that camp a number of times. He is always in the arms of his mother and cries a lot. He seems lethargic and doctors feel they need to get him help soon.

There are about 500 people living in this camp--they are unable or unwilling to return to their homes because of lack of money or safety issues. They remain in these poor conditions and life seems to go on. This small boy is in need of surgery in Jakarta. It can be done but we need the funds to get him help. It costs around $ 3,000 to get him and his mother to Jakarta, lodging and surgery. Please pray with us about this little boy.

I have several photos of him but he is crying in every photo. His family is praying but they are very poor and need some help.

Christiana

Lodi and Eka have their own son, Christian, who is ten years old. He is bright and full of energy. He comes home from school and hardly sets his books down and he is out the door with the soccer ball. He is also the top student in his class. He is now a big brother to his new sister Christiana. She is a new born who was adopted by Lodi and Eka. Chritiana was born at our clinic to a mother was not willing to give her a home. She wanted her to go to a good home. Her prayers were answered.

Lodi and Eka are leaders at the IFC Medical Base. Lodi is the right hand man to Peter--he is a very valuable part of our work. Eka is the head of the Leper treatment program. This couple has a perfect home for this little girl. Christian makes a good big brother and loves to show her affection.

This beautiful girl has come to a nurturing and caring family. She is one of the many who are being cared for by staff families on our base. These children were abandoned or thrown away but now they have found homes of solid families where they receive all they need to grow up accepted and loved.

Wounds Still Open

She sat with us and told us about her life. Ribka is about 23 years old and started by telling us about the attack on her village during the years of conflict. She stated that she and her family fled from their village and ran to the jungle where they lived for five months. She spoke of the struggle of eating only what they could find--roots and occasional fruit. It was a difficult time and just full of suffering.

It reminded me that the wounds of the struggle are still open. She didn't start her story at her years of innocent childhood. She began with the the deepest sadness in her life. I could see that her wound was still very tender and was defining her as a person.

We need to remember these ones who faced unspeakable losses in their lives. We cannot just pass by and minimize the affect of those painful years. They will be walking through these issues for many years. Ribka and others like her are now working to mend the wounds of others--who could be more understanding than those who have the same loss in their lives.

Dr. Lena

She is a tall Indonesian woman. She is going to be a Medical Doctor. She has completed her studies and just needs to pass her medical examination to get a license to practice medicine. Dr. Lena came to our base to work on her English language. She is very good in English but wanted a more technical grasp of the language.

She told us that she came to learn English but she learned compassion. Dr. Lena studied medicine to have a successful and prosperous life. She admits she got into medicine to make lots of money. She watched the way our medical staff gave to each patient. They show respect and mercy to everyone who comes to our clinic. They show no partiality--it does not matter if they are poor. It does not matter if they are Muslim or Christian--they all get the same care. She witnessed this day after day and it began to touch her. She is a good person and will make an amazing doctor now that she has discovered the key--compassion.

Jurambi

We were taken to the Ward to see the newest arrival. It seemed important and had an sense of urgency. When we went to the room we could see a young man in serious condition. Jurambi is 21 years old and has an unknown illness. It was a little early to know because he had just arrived and was being diagnosed. He was malnourished and very weak. He looks like someone with AIDS. The Doctor was doing tests and asking the questions about contracting HIV.

His parents had brought him to the Ward. We spoke to them and it just seemed like they had no more options. Jurambi had been working in West Papua for a couple years. He began to get sick while he was there. They wanted answers but needed a miracle. I thought how hopeless this must feel for them. They were poor and had waited until he was near death to bring him into the Ward. This is not uncommon for the sick to come to our clinic when they have allowed their illness to progress to a very serious point. He was receiving 24 hour care and had improved slightly in a few days.

Medical care can be very difficult at the ends of the earth due to the serious condition of patients when they arrive at our clinic. They are poor and even the transportation costs can be a more than they can afford. There are many remote islands that require the sick to travel in small boats in open ocean waters. The storm seasons make the already daunting travel even more dangerous. Then there is superstition which can be an obstacle to getting help soon enough. These families are desperate and sometimes rely on witchdoctors to cure their loved ones. The challenges facing medical workers in these remote regions can be monumental. It is never a question of the concern or love of a family for their sick or injured loved ones--it is how many obstacles are in the way to getting them to help.

Pa Pa Daud

David is from Illinois and has been a friend of mine for a number of years. He is a real student and loved researching about Indonesia and especially the people of East Indonesia. I have learned a lot from him and always look forward to the inspiring and interesting things he shares with me.

David was recently on a team that went to Indonesia and shared the big heart he has for the people and the knowledge of the culture. The interest he has for knowledge is only dwarfed by his heart for the people. David might be found holding one of the children in the children's home or talking at length to one of the Indonesians he meets. There is something about David that opens the hearts of people. He is interested in them and they can read that in him.

We stayed in a hotel while preparing to leave the country. It is a quiet place and it allows the team to rest before the long flights home to America. David had made friends of the Indonesian staff and almost all of them knew him--they called him Pa Pa Daud. Daud is the Indonesian name for David. Pa Pa is an affectionate and respectful title to a senior male figure. I think the name will stick. His friendliness and interest in each of them gave him a new title. Sometimes it is a kind word and an open heart that mean the most.

Between Two Worlds

Cathy and I had just come from the remote islands to the east of Manado. We had spent lots time with the poor and sick--it was such a blessed time to share their lives and to stand with them. There is something about the simple live they live. The daily struggle to survive is always facing them--hardship is a constant reminder of their world. Our affections were with the abandoned children and the lepers who were now close to our hearts.

Tison is an eight year old boy who was badly burned and was brought to our medical base about six months ago. He is in very bad shape but he just lives as if he had no injuries. He would play soccer and stand on his head. You would never know he was burned so bad and has not seen his family in six months. What a joy to spend time with him and the others who depend on us. I love the time I get to spend with Tison and the others. Billie, his 12 year old friend, was also a burn victim was just a sweet temperamented boy. He and Tison were just the best of friends. and could be found together most of the time.

We left these islands and our friends to speak at a conference in Manado--the rooms were arranged and we checked into the hotel. We entered the hotel lobby and realized this hotel was nicer than any place we have stayed--even in the U.S. We were in a bit of culture shock. We went to the 10th floor to our room. I looked out the window and saw the homes of the poor as far as I could see. I told Cathy--I do not like what I am feeling. It felt sad looking down from the beautifully hotel room to the poverty below us. I then understood we lived between two worlds. My heart was for the poor and I felt the contrast of these two worlds. I understand the difference and the difference is a lot bigger than how much someone owns. It is what owns you. It is one thing to feel for the poor it is another thing to get to know their struggle and to stand with them--that is when these two worlds come together.

On The Road in Oz

The time in Indonesia was full of landmarks. I will be writing about many of them in the weeks to come--but for now I am in Australia. I will be seeing friends and finding new doors to open for IFC. We plan on traveling many miles while we are here and only have a couple days open--so it will be a busy time.

It is amazed how many friends we have made over the years around the world. The partnerships and dear friends that have been made are just staggering. I have to stand back in awe at the concern and goodness of so many who have stood with us in the work to help the struggle of so many in East Indonesia.

I will be just over two weeks and then back to the cold of Alaska.

Check the postings in the next weeks. I will share the highlights of this last trip to Indonesia.

Make your life count.

Nur--Fought A Good Fight

I am in Indonesia and have been too remote to get on the Internet--here is the latest news.

Nur the young Muslim woman we have tried to get to the hospital in Kalimantan was able finally get to the hospital. She was so weak (due to her extensive burn injuries) when she arrived that in only two days she died. She fought for her life and everything was done on our part to get her help. Now we need to remember her husband and 13 month old daughter. We will try to help them ass they grieve their loss of a wife and mother.

Yulens (the other burn victim) is doing very well after her surgery.

Nur fought to live and now we will stand with her family in any way we can to help.

I will send another update on Yulens later.

Update

I leave with a team of nine for Indonesia in less than seven hours. It is exciting and also a very long trip. I have done it many times and I always have the an excitement about going to serve at our base and to see lots of my Indonesian friends. The team of volunteers is the bonus. What a privilege to be with such amazing people.

I have an update on the two burn victims (I mentioned in an earlier post). Yulens and her husband have made it to the Bethesda Hospital in Kalimantan (Borneo). She will bein the skin grafts surgeies soon. On the other hand Nur is stuck in Manado. She tried to board a flight accompanied by a one of our staff doctors and her husband but the airline officials would not let her on the flight. This is so discouraging for her.

Peter Scarborough has tried to open other doors and they have all closed to this point. MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship) was not able to get their plane to Manado to help. We are back to the start and because Nur is so badly burned the airlines did not want to be liable. She is loosing hope--please say a prayer for her.

Two Woman In Great Need

Yulens and Nur are two woman who share a tragic past--they are both burn victims. I am not talking about a burned finger or even a hand. These women were badly burned--their photos are so shocking I have not included them in this post. They are both as bad or worse than Yulce (read her story on our web-site).

A door has opened for both of them to go to Bethesda Hospital in Borneo for treatment. They will need extensive skin grafts and will have to survive surgery. These women are in very bad physical shape and emotionally near their very end.

Please join me in prayer for the demands of travel just to get to the hospital. Their husbands will be traveling with them to assist them and encourage them each step of the way. They have long rides in cars, airline flights and over 20 hours on boats crossing vast open waters. There are several legs to this journey. They left today and will have four days of travel.

Peter Scarborough has said they are very concerned for them--especially Nur. She is just very frail and in a weak condition. She needs help immediately and cannot wait for another door to open. These women have loving and supportive husbands and are mothers. Their families need them.

We have tried to find doors to open here in America--they just have not opened. This is the only opportunity they have and we have great concerns for them. We pray they will have successful surgeries and the strength to endure the long trip just to get to the help they both desperately need.

I will give updates as I get them.

Vino Going Home

Vino and his family are on their way back to Indonesia. I remember when Vino's father brought him to our clinic (see photo) with some very bad burns--his chin, chest, ears, neck and right arm were effected by the kerosene fire. Arrangements were made to bring Vino to L.A. where the Grossman Burn Center would provide the needed surgeries and therapy. He was accompanied by his father to America. It took about four years and several surgeries--in that time Vino's mother joined them and a new little brother joined their family. They really did well and Vino has a positive future ahead of him. He is so smart and is fluent in English. He has no accent and made lots of friends in his time in America.

I want to thank The Children's Burn Foundation, Grossman Burn Center and Tina Johnson for the compassion and countless hours they invested to make Vino a whole person. They are the heroes.

They are on the flight to Indonesia as I am writing. They should be nearing Tokyo and hopefully will have no problems in finding their connecting flights. They will land in Singapore then on to Jakarta.

I will get to see them when I go to Indonesia. They are happy to be going home but really feel that the time in America was a "miracle" door for them. Vino is smart and should have a bright future.

Soup Success

It was not the food booth on a busy Indonesian street but it was lots of fun and the Soto Makassar was excellent. Jim and Cindy Aldrich did a great job with all the preparation and hours of cooking the soup. They wanted the participants to get a taste of Indonesia. Jim showed slides from the recent trip and detailed the work in east Indonesia.

The tables were set up just like you would have if you sat down at the place we enjoy going to get this wonderful soup. The hard boiled eggs, (very) hot sauce, salt, rice and cut slices of limes were set on the tables in bowls. Then a bottle of water was there for everyone to put out the fire if they used too many scoops of the very hot sauce.

We had a lot of fun and the soup was excellent. We just missed the dogs walking through as you are eating, the sound of car horns and shouting in the streets, the wooden benches and smiling Indonesian faces. I know Cindy took a step of faith and she did a great job--the soup was a success.

Soto Makassar

Soto Makassar is an outstanding soup that I have come to enjoy very much. I have taken many of my friends to the roadside booth in Tobelo where the best Soto Makassar is served. The soup is a broth with beef cut into small pieces. It is served very hot in a large soup bowl. You have the option of putting a small block of sticky rice, a hard boiled egg, squeeze a lime slice, a spoon of hot pepper sauce, and salt. You can add whatever you want in whatever amounts--it will make you sweat. It has its own wonderful flavor and can be very filling. Imagine the sounds of people and vehicles in the background as you sit and enjoy this amazing Indonesian soup. It is hard to beat.

This Saturday we will partake of the northern version of this soup. We are going to have an Indonesian dinner with the main dish Soto Makassar. Cindy Aldrich has stepped forward to give it a try. I am ready to give her version a chance. It should be a lot of fun and very good to eat.