International Friends of Compassion

Clean Water

2012-01-26T18:31:00.001-09:00

Our mobile clinics go to some of the most remote places on the planet and serve the poorest people in these secluded mountain regions and isolated islands. I have personally been on several of their mobile clinics and I am amazed at, and blessed by, the devotion of these mobile team members. Sometimes the teams are greeted with dancers and music and there is usually food served to the team members. These teams stay in the villages for as long as three months or just for the day. The lines of patients can be long as they wait to be seen by the medical staff.

These villages do not always have clean water available. I recently met an amazing man, Jon, who is an inventor and specializes in clean water systems. Jon donated one of his smallest units—only 21 pounds—which are very portable but very efficient. You can literally pump out of any river and have drinkable water. The fact we can have good water at any place makes our medical care that much better. This clean water hand pump system is just what we need to improve our treatment. If it saves a life or reduces suffering it will be worth every mile it travels to these remote places.

Staying In Touch

2012-01-10T14:50:00.002-09:00

When I was a child we used to take two opened tin cans, punch a hole in the bottom of the cans and put a string in the holes. We would stretch the string out until it was tight then we would talk into one can and the other end was placed on the ear. This was a lot of fun as we would play for hours with our home-made phones. It hardly seemed possible that within my lifetime we would be able to not only talk to people anywhere in the world but now we can even see them as we are talking. Staying in touch has reached new heights. I am sure all of you know what skyping means. I am still astonished at the technology that is available to the average person at a reasonable cost.

The importance of staying connected with our work in Indonesia is a high priority. We are in a remote area of the planet but in a few moments and a couple clicks I can be talking live with one of our staff. It is also a challenge keeping every system operating. The next step for us is to get a “tele-medicine” system operating. This will require a very fast internet connection. Once this system is up we will be able to get the advice of medical professionals from all over the world. They will be able to see the patient live and consult our medical staff as far as the best care for the patients. It is amazing that we can go from cans and string to satellites and C-bands.

Lives Saved and Seeds Planted

2011-12-21T21:26:00.002-09:00

She was tiny and unconscious. It was in the wee hours of the morning in the equatorial heat. The mother held her baby believing there was nothing more that could be done to save her life. A wonderful medical student form the University of Washington and his wife, who was a nurse, and an emergency room nurse from Australia were called to the hospital to help this infant. They knew they had no time and only one option—to inject the child with blood from her mother. They were all praying for this newborn when it responded to the procedure. A life was saved thanks to clear thinking by passionate medical workers. Why did I tell that story—because this is what the year is all about. There were 8,000 other stories—some dramatic others just routine. These people have trusted our staff and we are blessed to have skilled volunteers and an amazing staff of Indonesia medical workers.

The wide-eyes of our school age children gazed in excitement in the new classes they are now attending—21 pre-school and 25 in the combined kindergarten and grade one class. The school is an investment in the future. The children are unwanted by their parents but we see them as beautiful and full of potential. It is a huge commitment with a big payoff. These children will be the best educated in their generation in this remote region. Yes—2011 has been a year of planting wonderful seeds.

I do not know if you could look at it as the end of the year or the beginning on another. We close out the amazing days of the 2011. It had plenty of challenges but the blessings way outnumbered the obstacles. We offered hope to anyone who came asking us for help—our leaders served with distinction. Now 2012 is in our sights and I will look into the empty pages of the calendar wondering what lives will be saved and how will the seeds grow that we planted.

Cool in the Southland

2011-12-06T13:06:00.003-09:00

I have been in Australia for a couple weeks but it rather cool. I have been blamed for bringing the cold temperatures here. It was minus 40 when I left Alaska and then warmed to above freezing. It was hot here and then I came and it has cooled.

The good news is the people have been wonderful and warm to me. I attended the wedding of Hendra and Miriam near Melbourne and now I am in New South Wales. It has been great to establish friendships and see new doors open.

Last night, I was with Leslie and Ruth at their home. They are an amazing couple and have a beautiful family. They have a heart to serve in Kusuri. I can see the gifting they have as they shared about the progress they have made in support and training. I also got to see Lodi, one of the key staff at Kusuri, for a couple hours. He is pure gold--he is learning about our culture and how different it is to live in a new culture.

I have a week left in Australia. Then the long trip home to the real cold of Alaska. If it begins to warm dramatically in Alaska when I arrive--I will begin to wonder.

Thawing Out

2011-12-02T14:33:00.003-09:00

I am currently in Australia just north of Sydney. It was a long flight from Alaska to Sydney and a long way from the minus 40 I left. Just before I left the deep freeze--my car stopped on the highway and I had it towed home. I still do not know why it stalled. I figured--I will deal with that when I get home.

I have been speaking where the door opens here in Australia and have renewed friendships. These are friends I have met over the years and now we get to spend quality time together. There are doors opening to new opportunities to develop partnerships from here in the Great Southland.

The one thing that is very hard to get used to is the Christmas decorations without snow. I do not mind it for a change. I will be thawed from the arctic freeze by mid-December when I return home.

Celebration

2011-11-24T21:07:00.002-09:00

It is over 100 degrees F. warmer than when I left Alaska. I came out of the deep freeze and into the beautiful fertile valley just over an hour east of Melbourne in Australia. I am here to celebrate the wedding of two amazing young people--Hendra and Miriam.

Hendra is the typical groom--nervous and just wanting the wedding to be finished. He is an awesome young man. There has been a lot of activity around here--with waves of people coming and going.

I get to reunite with friends and I am looking forward to the time together. I am going up to New South Wales in three days. I am so blessed to have great friends and now adding to my list of friends.

Friends--Down Under

2011-11-14T16:25:00.002-09:00

I was in Manila in 2002 and met some Australians. I gave them my best Aussie accent for “good day mate”. They laughed and told me my try was pretty bad. We spent the next day getting to know each other. It was the beginning of a friendship. I was invited to come to Australia and went in 2003. It was an amazing time of seeing doors open for our efforts in Indonesia. I met a lot of people—spoke at schools—interviewed on radio—met with many groups over the six weeks I was in Australia and enjoyed soaking up the warmth of those who live in the Great Southland. It is a beautiful land where I walked along Manly Beach and later stood awestruck with the stunning vistas of the “Outback.” This is a unique land of great reefs and good people.

I will be traveling to see my Australian friends this next week—after a stop in Seattle. I am anxious to sit and have a “cupper” with them. The purpose of the trip is to attend the wedding of Miriam and Hendra Pontomudis. This is a very special couple and I want to support them in their new life together. I will also be meeting Peter and Esther Scarborough on the road and getting to know Bill and Leanne Anderson the new Hohidiai directors in Australia. Two weeks of my time will be in New South Wales to promote the work and see more of my friends in Newcastle and Taree.

The time I have spent in Australia over the years has been full of amazing open doors and fellowship. My Aussie friends are of the same heart and have been such a great help to the work we are doing in Indonesia. Many of them have volunteered by coming to Indonesia to give their time and support to the poor we serve. It means so much to me to have these people as partners and friends.

More Hope

2011-11-06T18:26:00.001-09:00

In June of 2003 Yulce was brought to the Grossman Burn Center in Los Angeles for treatment of her burn injuries. She received 12 surgeries in her first year and returned home in June of 2004. Her story was made into a documentary called “A Face For Yulce” which was shown here in the U.S. and all over the world. It was a great story of hope and determination. She displayed her strength and courage as she came back to the U.S. for more plastic and reconstructive surgery and additional surgeries to repair curvature of the spine. This time she stayed over three years before returning to her home in June 2009. Yulce had changed a lot in her outer appearance, spoke perfect English and enjoyed the same things an average American teen does.

The concern was her adjustment to her life back in her home village. She lived a middle-class life in L.A. and now she was going home to a much different way of life. She was very concerned about it and verbalized her fears about going home. She has actually done very well in all the adjustments to life at home. She accepted her family and settled into life in her village. I saw her a couple months later and she was happy and respectful to her parents.

Last week I was contacted by a production company that wanted to do a follow-up story on Yulce. They believe her story is needed at this time. There are many people who are struggling and could use a message of hope. A lot of work needs to be done and Yulce has to agree to the new program. Her amazing story is a message that will encourage others to be more hopeful as they face their own challenges. Her life is marked with courage, strength and hope. She will be a testimony to all of these throughout her life.

Growing Pains

2011-10-31T11:07:00.003-08:00

We cannot say no to helping an abandoned new born. When they are left of unwanted we have said yes 50 times. We now have about 50 little ones ranging in age from new born to mid-teens. Our family has grown and continues to grow. It is a challenge to our staff and keeping up with facilities. These are our growing pains. We encourage our staff to adopt these unwanted children and the others we have in one of our two children's home.

There are several of our staff who have met and married while working on the base. They are now in need of married living quarters. We are delighted to see couples in loving relationships and serving together.

Several of our staff have been in University training and will be returning to serve at the medical base. We have to increase the housing for those who are returning following their education.

Growing pains means we have to build facilities for the new children, married staff and returning staff. These are the challenges of growing pains--where do you squeeze the funds to keep up with the growth.

Thankful

2011-10-25T00:11:00.003-08:00

Today I wrote several "Thank You" notes to some of our partners. I like to send a short personal note to those who pray and support our efforts. I have done this for the past 10 years--every time I write a note, I am awed by at the faithfulness and kindness of our partners. I know many of these donors personally.

In these difficult economic times it is amazing that so many are willing to help. Another amazing thing is that we seem to get just enough to cover the needs in time to meet the pressing needs. We have a full-time staff of 80--there are about 8,000 who come to our clinic and hospital asking for help annually--50 children in our care--leper rehabilitation--HIV/AIDS treatment--mobile clinics--medical staff training--facilities development--starting a school--and much, much more!!!The needs are growing and relentless. It can seem overwhelming at times.

It is an honor to have our friends and partners who stand with us. I do believe we are making a difference in a remote corner of this world. The real heroes are the hard working and faithful team in Indonesia. I feel like we all are holding up their arms as they serve the broken, sick and injured.

Roots

2011-10-13T11:21:00.003-08:00

I have traveled all over the world to build partnerships for the work in Indonesia. I am away from home a good part of the year traveling in the U.S. and other points on the planet. I am so fortunate to have amazing friends all over this globe.

The one thing that I notice about being back home is how many people I know or am acquainted. I was a baseball and football coach here when my son was growing up and later into his High School years. I have had the joy of performing the wedding for many couples and shared the loss of others when their loved one's pass. My wife and I have roots here in the great white north.

It is the friendships based on longevity that keep us anchored. A trip to the local market can take an hour or more--depending on who you meet there. You can read the local paper and not know only who the articles are written about but also the author of the article. The mayor is known by his first name and you know where to find him on any Sunday morning.

We have beautiful summers and harsh winters here in the arctic. I think many here would say that it is the people they know who answer the question--why do you live here.

Windows

2011-10-05T12:37:00.003-08:00

Thirty years ago--we thought a window was an opening in a structure. Today the term "Windows" takes on a more technical definition. We are in a completely new world of communication and information acquisition. Then there are the new terms--booting--downloading--email--utilities--we have to learn how to use properly.

The youth cannot remember NOT having a computer. It is my generation that has lived in both worlds. I can see the value in both eras. I remember being told that the use of computers will free up more time. I think we could say that was a total failure.

My computer recently had a problem with the operating system. It resulted in a ten days in the computer repair shop. Fortunately, it was an easy fix. Yes--Windows was not working correctly. It had to be fixed and now I am back online. I have to say it does feel good to be connected again.

Blue Screen

2011-09-26T09:53:00.002-08:00

I am sure anyone reading this have seen the dreaded blue screen on your computer. Unless you own an Apple--as some of my Apple friends have reminded me. Yes--I had the blue screen and my computer would not open. I immediately took it to the computer repair shop and they gave me that look. It will be about 10 days to two weeks before they will let me know the verdict.

I have had to use other sources and I found that if I access the server I have still answer incoming emails. I am far from a computer guru--I just use email and check the news pages. The dependence on these electronic pieces of our life show us how we are all connected. I still have my cell phone--so I am still communicating with those on my phone.

After contemplating for a moment about all this--I could remember a time when we lived without computers. Life was a lot more simple then--we interacted on a much different level. We did not have Facebook or Skype--we talked face-to-face with our family and friends. There was a more personal touch to our interaction.

If I lose my hard drive then I lose a lot of documents and photos. Now I just wait and hold my breath. We will see how it goes with the blue screen episode.

Good People

2011-09-15T12:33:00.002-08:00

After three weeks on the road, it was good to sleep in my own bed last night. I went to Boise, Phoenix and Springfield (Illinois). I spoke to several groups and met with supporters. The temperatures were very hot--110 plus in Phoenix.

Meeting people and talking about the work in Indonesia is such a blessing. I meet some of the most amazing people on the planet. I met Jim in Springfield--he and I found a lot in common. We could have talked for hours and we did. I loved his passion and the many experiences he shared. This is what makes traveling very worthwhile. Jim was a father of two and had a wonderful wife who was on the same page with him. It is the good people who stand with us as we serve the people of Indonesia.

Our Best

2011-08-24T12:48:00.003-08:00

You would have to meet Dr. Naomi to know how what an awesome woman she is. She is a skilled physician and has the highest character. She is one of the lead doctors at our base in Indonesia. Naomi has been in the U.S. for the past couple months for an intensive training course on pediatric eye care. She is upgrading her medical skills by study here in the U.S.

She is one of our best. What a blessing to have her as a part of our team. She could make a lot more money if she was in private practice. Her heart is to help the poor and to give the best years of her life to help the helpless. We are all very proud of her and the hard work and compassion she offers her patients.

A Chill in the Air

2011-08-08T11:20:00.002-08:00

It is early August and there is a chill in the air. It is the closing of the Alaskan summer and the greetings of the short fall season. I have had the opportunity to travel to many places and meet some amazing people this year. We have new partners and new doors have opened.

I am very hopeful and determined to walk into a new seasons of serving the poor in Indonesia. We have been so blessed to be able to continue the work in spite of economic challenges in our world over the last several years. We are blessed to have many faithful partners. We are entering a new season--more world economic challenges. Poverty doesn't stop because of economic woes around the world's stock markets-- disease doesn't take a break--abandonment takes no vacation when our exchange rate goes south. We continue to serve the poor--the sick and the abandoned.

Travel

2011-07-25T22:40:00.003-08:00

I just got back from a little more than a week of travels. My wife and I drove over 1,000 miles with no incidents. We felt fortunate to see such wonderful views on this trip. We went to Seward (Alaska) where we spoke to a wonderful group of new and old friends. We saw our dear friends, Al and Donna, where we stayed up playing games and just talking. It was like we had never been away at all--we just picked up where we left off. The fellowship was amazing.

We also stopped to see Dennis and Janae. I have known Dennis for over 30 years. We so enjoyed the time with them--we went to their lake house and did some fishing. Cathy was amazing--she caught several nice red salmon. Our friends mean so much to us and we treasure them.

Seward is a port city here in the far north. There were thousands of vacationers who came to catch a silver salmon or halibut. This is a place where the visitors out number the locals during fishing season. We met some of the locals and just had a wonderful time. I consider these times as special blessings. I get to talk about our efforts in Indonesia and at the same time I get to meet new friends and see old friends.

Heavy Hearts

2011-07-12T03:47:00.003-08:00

Baby Junita fought a good fight but lost her battle for life. We are all heavy hearted about her passing. Our hopes were high and the help that was offered to her was monumental. She was given every ounce of help we could give. She faced a domino effect of the tragic burn--dengue fever--a twisted bowel. It was just too much for her to overcome.

Jien is the nine year old who had T.B. and was severely malnourished. She was shockingly thin at around 15 pounds. Our medical staff assessed her battle was due to damaged organs that just could not process the food she consumed. She got weaker and weaker even though she was given an enriched formula. She was at our base for about a year. During that year she received lots of love and attention. This week her father came and took her back to their village. He could see she was not making progress and needed to be with family as her tiny body was not getting stronger. I think it will be best for her to be with her family during these days. She is a fighter and proved the power of the human "will to live". She touched many lives and was an example of tenacity.

Reality

2011-06-27T11:11:00.002-08:00

I just reported the passing of baby Junita. She fought a good fight but just had too much for her frail body to overcome. If the burn injuries were not tough enough she got Dengue Fever and then a twisted bowel. The internal bleeding due to the Dengue Fever and the emergency surgery for the twisted bowel was a huge challenge to survive. She came out of the surgery but could not fully recover. This is the reality of the medical work. The staff and all our supporters put everything into saving her life. Even with the huge effort, sometimes a patient does not survive.

Jien is also a real concern. I recently saw her and spoke to the staff. She was not doing very well. She is very thin and is fighting for her life. This is reality. We want the best outcome but we have to walk in an understanding of what is actually happening.

We just continue to pray and do everything medically to join the fight to live.

Two Worlds

2011-06-20T23:02:00.003-08:00

The transition Tison is making is best described as the tension between two worlds. Tison was born and raised on a remote island in a remote region of Indonesia. His father is a fisherman and lives a subsistence lifestyle. His life was simple and in some ways attractive. Tison came to America and lived with a wonderful family for 18 months. He was so amazing even during the toughest time of surgery and recovery. Tison was smart and learned to speak English pretty well. He loved chicken nuggets, snow boarding, computer games, movies, jet skiing, fishing and anything playing with his closest friends. He like life in America and wanted to stay here.

When he arrived on his island and saw his father. He just melted into the arms. It was an amazing moment. His love for his father will overcome all the adjustments to his culture. He was between two worlds. Neither world is better than the other--just different. They are not only different but vastly different. He brought some great tools for his father--a leatherman and headlamp. These tools will help make life much easier for his father. Now Tison need to appreciate the special things about his culture.

Tears in My Eyes

2011-06-17T02:09:00.003-08:00

I seemed like I just finished an around the world non-stop flight. I actually left the island of Halmahera in remote Indonesia on Monday. I have been traveling ever since--either in transit or on the flights. It is good to be home.

The purpose of the trip was to take Tison home to his family. He was unsure of himself and how he would react once he got to Indonesia. He got off the last flight and saw his father waiting for him. He just hugged his father--I had tears in my eyes. There is nothing like a child and his parents. Tison was crying and had his arms around his father. It just reminded me that as much as he was a part of our lives--he had his own family.

Now he is in his village getting acquainted with his family and tasting the food he grew up eating. The best news for him was that since he left he has twin brothers born.

What It Is About

2011-06-03T15:10:00.002-08:00

I reflected today about "why" we work to serve the poor. The root of the question is "what is it all about". Tison is going home soon after being treated here. He was here for a year and a half and had eight surgeries and nine procedures. He was welcomed into a host home and came to be loved by them. When you consider the passport and visa application process and the many cost--you have to ask "why" are we doing this. The reason we do this is the importance of the individual and the prospects of a better future. The poor cannot access this kind of help but our foundation can open those doors.

It is total joy to see these children helped and many who come to our clinic for help. We provide hope for those who need help. We are careful and compassionate in the care.

This week I received news that an infant who was burned in a hot oil spill has been accepted by the Children's Burn Foundation. Julita will be coming to L.A. for care once she and her mother are awarded visas. They have made an amazing offer to help and the Grossman Burn Center will provide the surgeries.

Party Time

2011-05-31T16:56:00.003-08:00

Tison had many of his friends at his big party on Sunday. He had a fun day and enjoyed all his friends coming to celebrate with him. Tison will soon be leaving the U.S. and going home. There has been plenty of tears shed as the days count down.

It is hard to thank everyone who has had a part in helping him because there have been so many. His main physician came to say goodbye to Tison. It was a joyous event with plenty of food and cake.

He made an agreement with his doctors--to get an education. He is a smart kid and could do very well once he applies himself to reading and writing.

Amazing People

2011-05-20T20:25:00.003-08:00

I just came home after over two weeks on the road. I was in Boise, Seattle and Phoenix. The highlight to me was how many amazing people I met. Steve in Phoenix had begun a season of prayer. I just loved the time with Steve and his church--Bud and Janet in Seattle were so interested in what we were doing--David, a friend of mine for over 30 year, just accepted the leadership of a church in Seattle--Greg and Jeanette were so kind to me, they are great friends and supporters--Caleb, my son, let me sleep at his apartment and we had a wonderful time on his birthday. Andy and Dwight had lunch with me--we are kindred spirits. We share an interest in helping people in other nations. I just go where the doors open and along the way I meet amazing people. They help to keep me going.

Walking

2011-05-03T22:37:00.002-08:00

This is such an encouraging photo. Jien is now walking--it have been a long time since she tried to walk. We are praying she has turned a corner and will gain weight and strength. She is so brave and wants to live. This is a small step but it is so encouraging to the staff who have worked with her over this year. I credit her strength and the loving care of the staff for her improvement.

Friends

2011-04-30T21:38:00.002-08:00

I have been thinking recently about the amazing friends I have made in the last 10 years. I have been to some remote and far out places. I couldn't possibly name them on these lines but I have thought about many of them recently. There is a community a couple hours drive north of Sydney, Australia. Taree has become a destination for me when I am down under.

I do not remember who was the first Aussie I met there but I have made many friends in Taree. These amazing people have partnered with our work and have become dear to me. I am rich with the friends I have made in Taree and over the last years. I have taken 30 teams to Indonesia and always consider myself blessed to be with people who see that they can give to the poor.

I will drive next to the Hunter River again some day--I know because I have lots of friends there.

Encouraging

2011-04-15T15:41:00.003-08:00

I do not know what you need to have a sense of encouragement. The recent reports on two of the children who are being cared by our medical staff in Indonesia was exactly what made me feel encouraged. There were two little girls who have needed our help and prayers. Jien is now nine years old and Junita is less than a year old. They both needed miracles.

Jien has recently started to walk with assistance. She is so weak and frail but seems to have turned a corner. She is now eating better and is growing from the 15 pound she when we first met her 10 months ago.

Junita was badly burned on her head and upper body in a hot oil spill. She went to Bethesda Hospital in Kalimantan where she had had skin grafts over her head. She is really doing well.

Both of these children were not expected to live but it looks like they have a chance now. That is what makes me encouraged today.

A Few Steps

2011-04-05T19:52:00.003-08:00

Jien has been fighting for her life. The medical staff have treated her with little progress. She is now nine years old and less than 20 pounds. She has T.B. and malnourishment--that is a terrible combination. We have all been concerned and cheering her on. It seemed like every small bite of food was one more step closer to her being healthy.

We just got the best news yesterday. She is not only walking but she has begun to eat more. She is a miracle and so many are praying and hoping she makes it. I can't wait to hear the next report that she is even better than today's great report.

The staff have just done an amazing job in loving and treating her. She has been through so much sadness in her short life. Her mother died of T.B. and she has to fight everyday.

A New Ear

2011-03-29T10:59:00.002-08:00

Tison went to surgery yesterday. He was scheduled to have his right ear repaired. The outer ear was pulled over to a closed position. Due to the burn injury his ear was folded forward and was closed--you could not see his inside of his ear. It was a concern because it was very obvious when you looked at him. He was very self-conscious of it and wanted it to look better.

He has had several surgeries that addressed more functional problems--those are very important but to an 11 year old boy his appearance was also important. I think it turned out very well. His ear is now open--there was no damage to the inner ear. He definitely will be able to have improved hearing and looks. There is more work to be done but I am very happy to see this important step. I think Tison will be very happy once he recovers from the surgery.

He is a step-by-step project. He has so many injuries and even as he grows there will be more to be done just due to him growing in size. He wants to stay here in the U.S. but we have been reminding him of how much his family loves him. He really does love his family and we will be taking him home before his current visa expires. He will be much better than he was and will have a new look--a new ear.

Snow machines

2011-03-20T23:10:00.002-08:00

We have friends who have a large farm in Alaska. Tison was invited to come down and ride machines with their son. Here is a boy born in Indonesia and now very much a part of life in the arctic.

We arrived with plenty of daylight on a beautiful sunny day. It was a little cool but the sun was bright and Tison was more than ready to get on the snow machine and have some fun. He got his winter clothes on and we hardly saw them again. They were just having a great time riding and enjoying the amazing winter day. Tison was having so much fun he forgot to come in to eat lunch.

He is making memories here in the Great Northland. He will be going back to his home in a couple months. He will be under the hot tropical sun and the snow and chill will be only in his stories to his friends. He has told us he loves living here--everyone likes him and he really feels good about himself. He misses his family and will be happy to see them--but he will have a place in his memories for Alaska.

Junita

2011-03-09T15:50:00.003-09:00

She is seven months old and has had more pain than any child should endure. Junita was injured in a hot oil accident. Her face, scalp, arms and upper chest. She was diagnosed with a 25% to 50% chance to survive the accident. Her mother ,who was also injured in the accident, brought her to our clinic in Kusuri asking for help.

She needed skin grafts and had little time to waist. The staff made the decision to transport her and her mother to a Bethesda Hospital on the island of Kalimantan. She was escorted by one of the doctors and arrived safe. This is a long and grueling trip for someone in her condition. She had er first surgery and is now stable. Her life was spared but more surgeries will be required to prevent more damage.

Prayer--Down Under

2011-03-02T21:32:00.002-09:00

I am sure most of you have heard of the devastating earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. The loss of life and destruction was vast. We kept hearing the death toll rising and the heroics of those tireless rescuers. I have several friends who live there and just got a note from Peter and Katherine, his wife . Peter volunteered at our base in Halmahera in 2004. He and I were roommates for about a week. Peter is a doctor and what I remember was how compassionate and kind he was to those he treated.

He gave me an update on the recent earthquake. Our prayers and heart are with the people of New Zealand and specifically Christchurch.

These are the words Peter quoted from Pastor Steve (last name withheld) from Christchurch--

"John 10:35 says very simply “Jesus wept”. Sometimes the only thing we can do is what comes naturally at times of great distress – to weep and to let out the deep emotions that have bubbled up so close to the surface. Weeping did not stop Jesus from waiting on his Father for the wisdom and power to be able to respond to the pain. Nor did it stop him from working to bring healing and hope to Lazarus and his family. Sometimes you have to weep. Weep, wait, and work. One day at a time. We are still overwhelmed by the response and resilience of so many in the face of personal tragedy, anxiety, injury and hardship. Church remains a hive of activity, the café is open during the day, and many food parcels are still being prepared and going out the doors just as fast to people in need. Fresh supplies were bought in yesterday so we are currently well stocked to provide emergency assistance to people in need."

Pray--pray --pray.

Snow

2011-02-21T19:59:00.002-09:00

The road was clear until we drove into Delta Junction (Alaska). We went to Valdez over the weekend to meet with some of our partners and to speak to a group of supporters. We had a wonderful time. It was so beautiful and the drive was safe--all the big animals (moose, caribou, bison and bears) stayed off the road. We did see a lot of tracks but only saw two lonely moose.

We had driven 360 miles on the road to Valdez and the next day we returned on the same road. The drive out of Valdez is just awesome. Those of you who have made that drive know--this is one of the gems of mother earth. The mountains surround you and the sky is as blue as any blue you have ever seen. We journeyed for 260 miles on the drive north. Then we saw the very dark and ominous cloud. It looked evil and sure enough it started dumping snow. A lot of snow--the road was covered and no road crews in sight.

I just slowed down and kept driving. I did not know a winter weather alert was given--that could explain why we only met one vehicle on our side of the road for 100 miles. We finally made it home safe and sound.

Eleven hours later and a nights rest--we look outside and see over a foot of snow on our car. It had snowed heavy all night. It is a part of being on the road.

In America

2011-02-14T10:41:00.002-09:00

It happened very fast--one of our trusted staff members is here in the U.S. Hendra is known by many of those who have come to Indonesia on short-term teams. He is a gentle but strong young man.

He first came to the U.S. in December 2009 when he escorted Tison to the Fairbanks. It was really cold and Hendra stayed for two months to assist with Tison's transition. He made lots of friends and was able to share about his vision to start an International School in Halmahera.

The vision and direction of the school has moved forward and today Hendra has a Board of Directors and is a legal foundation. The next step is finding appropriate land then develop the programs.

Hendra is back in Fairbanks. He is here to visit Tison and help with the decision on returning him back to Indonesia. Tison was so excited to see Hendra. He is like a big brother. Hendra will be meeting with the surgeon tomorrow.

Surprise

2011-02-10T19:05:00.003-09:00

I went to Los Angeles to support Esther Scarborough, IFC Medical Director and co-founder, as she was going to be the speaker at a group of leaders. She was going to fly in from Kentucky and land at 4 p.m. drive to the meeting at 7 p.m. I did have some concerns because of the bad weather in the mid-west and all the reports of flight delays. She did have a little wiggle room but it was going to be tight.

I got a call from her that she was delayed for an hour. That was going to make it even tighter. Then she called and said the flight was now delayed for at least three more hours. Well now it was going to be too late for her to speak. I called the conference coordinator and he asked me to fill in for her. Esther is an inspiring speaker. She always does a great job and now I was to step in her place. I agreed because I could see I this was the reason I came early.

It was a wonderful time with some amazing people. I did share about our work and got to tell some of the stories of our staff. I was not Esther but maybe Esther-lite. I did fell humble and honored to stand in her place.

Later that evening Esther arrived and was able to speak the next day. She did her usual inspiring message.

This life is always a surprise. I am amazed at the turns in life. IFC got a chance to tell our story and I made several new friends.

Hendra Coming

2011-01-31T19:07:00.003-09:00

I got the call from Esther asking me if we would be interested in Hendra coming to the U.S. It was excellent timing because we were at an important point in deciding the next step for Tison. Hendra has been the link between Tison's parents and our medical team here in Alaska. Tison's parents live in a very remote region of Indonesia and only come out occasionally. We are at a critical time in deciding the next procedure or the option of sending him home. He has a very badly damaged right hand. The fingers could be amputated but we are seeking the input of his parents and doctor. Hendra will be invaluable in helping make that important decision.

Hendra is also in the process of starting a private International School in Halmahera. He will be meeting with Christian School leaders in San Francisco and attend a conference in L.A. He will gain valuable partnerships and knowledge that will help him build this school.

Tison will be so happy to see him. It will help Tison process his return to Indonesia.

Ten Years

2011-01-23T23:22:00.003-09:00

It is hard to believe that IFC has been serving in Indonesia for ten years. January 2001 was the first introduction to this amazing nation and people.

This past Friday a group of 280 friends and supporters gathered in Fairbanks for a wonderful night of food, laughter and reflection. Esther Scarborough, IFC (Hohidiai) co-founder, was the honored speaker. She is so gifted and inspiring--she always shares from her heart about the people. She has been called the Mother Theresa of Halmahera. I have witnessed her tireless work and servants heart.

We got to share our story and see the faces of our supporters. We shared how IFC was born and our hope is it will go forward. We, in many ways, have just begun. We have over 45 children in our care. We have lepers, T.B. infected, HIV sufferers and those who come to us for help by the thousands each year. We are hopeful for the future.

I got to see many of my friends--it was like a reunion. The meal and program lasted about two hours and people stayed for over an hour. It was a great seen--seeing laughter and smiles.

Now we look forward to the next ten years.

Milestone

2011-01-18T00:30:00.002-09:00

It was January 2001 that I went to the refugee camps in North Sulawesi near the city of Manado. IFC was born to help the poor in these camps. It was an overwhelming challenge with 53,000 refugees in the area. This began a journey of IFC where we worked in food, clean water and medical programs.

These were the early days and now it has been ten years. We have reached a milestone--one decade. It hardly seems possible that 10 years has passed. I can look back and see many challenges and also breakthroughs.

It is the amazing people who have joined us in this work. I have only thanks to the hundreds of people who have volunteered to go to the refugee camps and our medical base. These are the salt of the earth--the best of mankind. I am thankful to work along side these amazing people.

Jien--a fighter

2011-01-13T13:40:00.003-09:00

Little Jien is still alive and continues to fight. She is now 9 years old. Jien has T.B. and has recently lost two kilograms (around 4 pounds). She is now around 15 pounds. She has little gains but she need to have sustained weight gain.

Jien's mother died of T.B. and she has a grandmother with her. She gets lots of love and support from the medical staff. She has had very good medical care but continues to barely hold on to life. She does not like the feeding tube but it offers a way to get the life giving formula into her stomach. She doesn't seem to process the food she consuming.

She has taught us a lot about having a"will to live". She is a fighter. We pray she will win this battle.

Great Year

2010-12-30T15:11:00.002-09:00

It was a normal year in many way--365 days--12 months. It began with the same hopes and dreams as most other years. It was also entered into with wide-eyed anticipation. 2010 is the 10 years anniversary of IFC and landmark for our supporters and staff.

IFC began in 2000 with a short sited plan of simply helping refugees in a crisis time in their lives. We did not know how long we would be involved in aid work. Now 10 years later we are not only involved--we are committed for the foreseeable future.

This year was a year of development with the construction of a single staff living quarters, a second Children's Home, a third (four apartments) unit in the Leper Rehabilitation Center, an Eye and Dental Clinic and temporary HIV housing unit. These facilities will all serve the poor and provide services to those who are in challenging or hopeless situations ion their lives. The amazing leadership of Peter and Esther Scarborough and their staff are the reason we have seen these advances. There has been a lot of prayer involved in the process.

There are also many people who believe in what IFC is about. This year is a tribute to everyone who has given funds, prayed, went on a team or donated in-kind gifts. More than 10,000 people came to our clinic and hospital asking for help this year--no one was turned away. If we could help them we did everything in our power to serve them.

Yes--this was a great year. How can you go wrong serving the orphaned and the helpless. It is an honor to be a part of their lives and a part of the answer to their prayers for help.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T11:40:00.002-09:00

The year 2010 is nearly completed. It had it's challenges and blessings. I reflect on the amazing goodness of God and the great friends we have. I am also reminded of the importance of making your life count.

So--Merry Christmas to all of you and a blessed New Year.

Frozen

2010-12-16T05:15:00.002-09:00

It is a deep chill here in Alaska. Just before Christmas this cold snap has come to the northern regions. The vehicles can fail to start and the homes are a concern if the heat source fails. It takes a special person to live in the north. It looks like the chill will stay around for a while.

If you live here for more than 20 winters you are called a Sourdough. We might be called other names by people who think this is just crazy. The crazy thing is people just continue going forward--they go to the store and will keep shopping before Christmas.

Well--have a warm and wonderful Christmas.

Give Me Some Lip

2010-12-01T18:32:00.001-09:00

This Monday Tison got up just like any other day—other than he could not have breakfast. He got dressed and bundled up in the car. It was around minus 25 degrees F. so we had to wait for the car to warm up. We arrived at the surgery center and he knew the routine. He got his wrist band and was escorted to the pre-op room. The nurses were hardly noticed as they did their paperwork and took all his vital signs. We did find out he is gaining weight at a good pace. He hardly looked up with all the poking and questions. The surgeon came in and was greeted with a big, “hello”. There were several things the doctor was looking at but he would not allow Tison to be under anesthesia for more than 90 minutes. The main concern was a graft on the lower lip.

Tison came out of the surgery very well. He was to overnight in the hospital. He woke from the surgery and wanted to eat. He was hungry after not eating in the morning. He then started to watch the movies—they have a large selection in the pediatrics unit. He thought he could stay up longer than me. I told him he was going to have trouble staying awake longer than me because I had just returned from Indonesia and was still jet lagged. Well—at 1:30 a.m. he went to sleep. I stayed up all night and was still awake when he woke up at 8:30 a. m.

The staff at the hospital were just awesome. He had a very restful night and is recovering from this surgery very well. He will have the stitches removed from the lip next week. It is one step at a time.

I Saw the Mountains

2010-11-22T00:12:00.003-09:00

After over 20 hours in flight--I caught my first view of the mountains of Alaska. The beaches of the remote islands of Indonesia have a wonder and beauty--there is a stunning, jaw dropping awe to the peaks of these snow cover mountains. I was viewing them from the comfortable seat of a jetliner. Regardless of whether you are looking up to the massive rock towering over you or looking down from the heavens--they are just amazing.

The warm weather is replaced by the cool reunion I had stepping as I stepped off the airplane. I have only memories that warmth as I think of the staff the heroes who work everyday to serve the poor. I saw their tears when two very ill patients died. They just came in way too late to be helped. One old woman, who had advanced breast cancer, was brought to the hospital by a local doctor who said--she will die soon but I wanted her to be here where she will be loved and shown dignity in the last days of her life. I also witnessed the joy on the face of a leper who loved playing the card game UNO. He got a lot of pleasure in giving his visitors a draw four card. He was a good sport even when he lost. The second Children's home is moving along and will be ready for occupancy soon.

I have got to get some sleep--my body time is somewhere over the Pacific Ocean. It is good to be home.

A Voice in the Jungles

2010-11-14T19:33:00.003-09:00

The downpour of refreshing rain is falling here in Manado Indonesia. I have been on the remote Island of Halmahera in East Indonesia for three weeks with two teams. We are back in the big city with malls and crazy drivers. We are on a slow trip home--departing in six days.

The time at the Hohidiai base was awesome--I will have more to write later. I have a few minutes before the team comes back from lunch and then we are on the run again. A total of eleven amazing people joined me on this adventure--each one brought gifts and lots of energy. I have been blessed to travel with some of the best people on the planet.

I just wanted all of you who keep up with our efforts to know I am still alive and will soon be home in Alaska. I go from above 90 degrees to minus 20 in Fairbanks.

Keep praying for Jien, the eight year old child with T.B., she is holding with little weight gain. This is the voice in the jungle coming back to the snow and cold.

Soon to Leave

2010-10-17T22:39:00.003-08:00

Three teams will be going to the Hohidiai Clinic in Indonesia this next month. The first team has a variety of interests--medical, children's work, English language training, video editing training and counseling. This will be a very rewarding time for our workers at the base. This first team is very skilled and prepared to give a lot of their skills and expertise.

The second team will be leading a staff retreat for our leadership. There will be about 30 leaders who will attend the retreat. The retreat will be a three day event. The theme is working together and understanding the differences we have. We want this to be a time of encouragement and refreshing.

The third team will be led by Jim Aldrich. They will be working in the medical, mechanical and micro-enterprise programs. Our fleet of vehicles will be upgraded. The processing of coffee for sale will be another step closer. A roaster has been purchased and we need two more pieces of equipment to have all we need to process the coffee from our 200 coffee trees.

Please remember these teams--there are a total of 15 people represented in these three teams. They have a lot to give and will come home with more than they imagined.

Friends

2010-10-14T23:20:00.003-08:00

I just returned from a trip to Springfield, Illinois. I was reflecting on the time that I got to speak to several groups. I also stayed at three homes in the 10 days I was there. I can only come up with the word friends. I met a lot of people and made a number of friends.

I especially liked the opportunity to speak to a group of men and to a group of teens. They were interested and open to what I had to share. The work in Indonesia was presented and more partners are helping us in these efforts.

I see us making friends of all the people who join us in our work in Indonesia. We appreciate the many people who believe in our work and have stood with us. We have partners who have been supporting these efforts for nearly 10 years. It is just amazing to me that they have been so faithful in their support.

L.A. and Illinois

2010-10-07T20:48:00.002-08:00

What does L.A. and Illinois have in common? Tomorrow--IFC will be represented in L.A. and in Illinois. Esther Scarborough is in L.A. and will be speaking at the fundraiser for Grossman Burn Foundation. I am in Illinois where I will be speaking at several events.

Esther will have the privileged to speak to a group regarding the burn care in the North Maluku region. She is passionate and will share the dilemma we have with so many people being injured as a result of accidental burns. We need a better program to provide care for them--preventative as well as after accident care.

I will be speaking to a men's group tomorrow night and Saturday. Sunday I will be speaking at several meetings and a youth event. I have had an amazing time and I look forward to more chances to share about Indonesia.

I will be back home on October 12 and then to Indonesia on the 20th. I can't wait to take the two team to Indonesia.

Making Friends

2010-09-27T13:33:00.003-08:00

Tison has been in Alaska for ten months. He is speaking English very well and has made a couple good friends. His friend, Isaac, spent the night--they played and watched movies. This is a new concept for Tison--to have a friend spend the night. What a life--watching movies, eating popcorn and drinking soda. He is having fun and building friendships. Tison is a good friend and is kind to the other children he knows.

He has several surgeries ahead of him. His visa extension application is in process. After consulting his plastic surgeon--we believe he needs to stay until June 2011. He is improving and also growing taller. He does miss his family but understands he is here to be fixed and then he can go home.

Ester In America

2010-09-23T00:02:00.002-08:00

Esther Scarborough, the medical director for IFC in Indonesia, will be in Los Angeles to speak at a fundraiser. Esther has already been to Singapore and Hong Kong. She is an inspiring speaker and advocate for the poor. Esther was invited by Rebecca Grossman of the Grossman Burn Foundation (GBF) to speak at her fundraiser on October 8.

IFC has many partners and friends in L.A. This will be like a homecoming for Esther. She knows so many people and will find other doors to open while she is there. She is interested in the proposal of a burn unit at our base. This is a dream and the partnership with GBF could result in the ability to care for burn injuries at our base in Indonesia. This would be great news for those in the remote North Maluku and North Sulawesi region of Indonesia who are injured due to a burn accident.

Well--Esther arrives tomorrow. Is L.A. ready for Esther?

Mia--cerebral malaria

2010-09-11T14:31:00.003-08:00

Mia is a young mother who has been a staff member in the medical work for many years. She is very petite and has a beautiful smile. She is a wonderful mother to her young daughter. She recently had a serious reaction to what the is believed to be cerebral malaria. Peter wrote, " She was unconscious for 40 minutes and is now semi-conscious. Mia is a faithful team member, she is small in stature but has a big heart--one of her specialties is caring for terminal cancer patients. We are also trying to contact her husband who works an hour and a half away from here."

She is well known by many American and Australian short-term team members. Mia has received the medicine she needed. It was brought in as an emergency response to her illness. She is now doing better--she is conscious, sitting up and talking. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

Success

2010-08-30T12:30:00.002-08:00

We are cautiously optimistic about the results of the last surgery. Tison's doctor took a look at the graft on his shin which was done a week ago. Dr. W. was very happy with the results of the surgery. The graft was holding--this is so important because of the potential infections if the graft doesn't take.

Tison will have to have another couple weeks of limited activities. It will be very hard on him because he is so active. We have had him outside in his wheelchair but he wants to get on his feet and enjoy the sunshine. It is hard for him because he is 10 years old and very active. We will have to watch him carefully over the next two to three weeks. He can still damage the new graft--we have come this far and do not want to see this graft fail.

Recovery

2010-08-25T23:46:00.002-08:00

Tison had a successful surgery on Monday. The shin on the right leg had was badly damaged in the burn--it needed a large skin graft. This was a very serious injury because it could have resulted in an infection in the leg bone. He could have lost his leg due to the infection.

Skin for the graft was taken from his upper thigh. The first day and night was painful and unsettling for Tison. He is a brave little boy but it wasn't until 2 a.m. that the right combination of medications allowed him to fall asleep. He liked the X-Box in his room. It really helped to distract him and keep his mind off why he is the hospital.

We must be very careful because the skin will require 72 hours to begin the attach to his shin. Tomorrow we go to see his doctor--we will know just how he he is progressing. He is a strong and brave little boy. He impresses us every step of the way.

Number Five

2010-08-22T23:04:00.002-08:00

Tomorrow is an important day for Tison. He will be going to the hospital at 7 a.m. and check in for his fifth surgery. He has had a lot done already but there is a lot to do. Tomorrow his Doctor will be putting a skin graft on his right ankle. The inside of this foot is being pulled up. The contractures allow him to walk only on the outside of his foot. The left foot had the same surgery ealier. The issue is the tendons can be frozen due to lack of use. Even after the surgery, it may take a while for the tendons to loosen.

Tison believes he will be a great soccer player once all the repairs are completed. He is so funny at times but he knows he will be much better. The best therapy for him is to remain active. After the graft heals then it is a matter of time when the foot is loose enough that the foot can set flat on the ground. This is the goal to give him a more normal posture and allow him to walk and run.

He is in bed now--he knows he has surgery in the morning and has no fear or anxiety. He is strong and confident.

Jet Lag

2010-08-13T04:06:00.002-08:00

It is 4 a.m. here at home. I am awake and am still on some other time zone. This is the plight of those who travel Internationally. I have flown a lot and still have the adjustment every time.

I have found that flying westward is easier than going eastward. I often fly to Singapore and then into Indonesia. I am usually ready to go on day one and have no sleep problems. Singapore is 17 hours ahead of the west coast of the U.S. If I sleep at least six hours on the flight to Singapore I am ready to go.

The return is a mystery to me--we land in the U.S. about the same time we leave Singapore. Yes--17 hours ahead of the U.S. the flights are about 17 hours from the Singapore to the U.S.

I am now awake and wondering how long it will take for me to get back to the U.S. time.

Yulce is Home

2010-08-02T19:10:00.002-08:00

It has been four years and who knows how many surgeries. I estimate she has had 25 surgeries to repair her burn injuries and her curved back. She is a new person and a 17 year old young woman.

I flew to L.A. to meet all the hosts and to see Dr. Peter Grossman and his wife. They all have been so amazing as they have done so much to change Yulce's life. Yulce was very much an American teenager. She was not ready to go back to Indonesia. She spoke English and had little Indonesian language she used on a regular basis.

We did not expect her to be here for four years. We thought one year would cover everything. The biggest issue for the three extra years was the problems with her back. We had to find an orthopedic surgeon who would correct the back problems. Dr. Peter Grossman made a contact and found an Orthopedic surgeon who was willing to help her. The result was good but the years added to our original goal.

She was a great traveler. She was on time and had no complaints. She did tell me she was nervous to go home. The day we flew to her island after traveling for four days she told me she was afraid. Her home would be new and the life in remote Indonesia was very different from the middle class in California.

Esther Scarborough took her to see her family. Yulce was slow to hug her parents and kept looking around at the dirt floor and the small house. Esther spoke to her about how much her family loved her and how she must learn to adjust to her culture. It will take time. The best thing Yulce has going for her is that she is a sweet girl. I think she will learn to be thankful to everyone who helped her and to appreciate her own culture.

Would we as a foundation put out the effort to help her if we had to do it all over again--YES. She was in a horrible situation--just look at her first photos. We knew there would be cultural issues to deal with but they are secondary to the foremost issue--she could not live with the crippling burn injuries. We all did the right thing and now it is time for a wonderful young woman to come home. She was rescued for a purpose.

Going Home

2010-07-22T15:54:00.003-08:00

Yulce is finally going home. She has been in the U.S. since 2004. She went back to her family in Indonesia for one year following her first year of treatment. Dr. Peter Grossman has been amazing as he led her surgeries and recovery. Tina Johnson has been her guardian and has been a mother and friend to Yulce. She came with severe burn injuries and now she is going home as a confident and beautiful young woman..

She will go home after a long time in California. The adjustment is going to be difficult as she returns home. She is an American teenager and now she goes home to a remote village in Indonesia. Her parents are farmers and they work very hard to survive. Yulce is missed by her parents and brother and sister. This will be a wonderful reunion. Pray for Yulce as she arrives home and sees her friends and family for the first time in nearly four years.

The Next Step

2010-07-12T20:16:00.002-08:00

Today was a big step for Tison. He had his fourth surgery. It was possibly the most important surgery for him. The surgeon worked on the ear that has been closed since the burn accident. His right ear was closed and we did not know if the inside of the ear was burned or untouched by the burn. It was a relief to hear that the ear canal was open. We are so happy to know his hearing was not affected and his ear can be made to look normal.

Tison had a heavy scar on his chest that is very uncomfortable for him--he wanted it fixed. Now it has a new skin graft over the scar. It is step by step. He is in the hospital tonight and will begin the healing process.

He was really anticipating this surgery because the surgeon was going to address the injuries that are the most uncomfortable for him. He was in the best spirits at 6:45 a.m. when he arrived fro the pre-op. He was up in his room at the hospital tonight watching movies. This was a great day.

Approved

2010-07-05T09:59:00.003-08:00

Tison has been approved to remain in the U.S. for another six months. The application for a visa extension is a big job and must be done correctly. It was great to get the approval of his application for the next six months visa.

Tison needed to remain here in Alaska for more surgeries. He has been doing well and was able to complete three surgeries. The next surgery will be next week. His surgeon has been careful and we feel he has been wonderful. Tison has noticed his improvements and is happy about the progress.

It looks like he will be here at least until December 2010 and we will evaluate his condition again. We want him to leave here with as much of his injuries repaired.

Cooking Eggs

2010-06-27T22:08:00.002-08:00

Tison is only speaking English now with an occasional Indonesian word thrown in when he doesn't know the word. He told us he wanted to cook some eggs. So he began giving us the list of things he needs just like a good cook. First, eggs and then a bowl. He took a fork and mixed the two eggs in the bowl. Then he said I need some bawang puti. That is garlic and he let us know it was not onions. No--not onions. He carefully sliced the garlic and put the slices in the eggs. He put the coconut oil in the frying pan and poured the eggs into the pan. It wasn't long and he was enjoying his eggs.

He is so much fun. This summer has been really full for him. He spent a lot of time at the lake with friends. He told us about the fox and beaver he saw at the lake. He will be in line for his next surgery this month--one more step closer to repairing his injuries.

Feeding the Bears

2010-06-23T10:36:00.003-08:00

Normally--we would be told to NOT feed the bears. But Tison got to see and help feed two black bears owed by Ron and Sharon Richards. Samson the male and Delilah the smaller female have been a part of Ron and Sharon's family since they were very small. They live in a five acre fenced forested area and are not treated as pets. These huge bears are respected as wild animals but are cared for and nurtured by the Richards.

Tison got the chance to see these bears last night. He was amazed and even got to watch Ron feed them. Tison asked a lot of questions and helped prepare the food they would have for their meal. He loved the experience and kept talking about the bears all the way home.

Approved

2010-06-19T00:08:00.002-08:00

Tison has had three surgeries in the last six months. He had a cold on the day his second surgery was scheduled, so it was set back three weeks due to the congestion. His left foot is really looking good. The graft around his ankle has allowed the foot to start to lay in the normal flat position. He had remarkable changes in his burned right hand and scaring on his face.

It was clear that he was in need of more surgeries and would need more time here in the U.S. We made the application to extend his visa. He was awarded another six months stay in the U.S. Our hope is he will get the surgeries he needs in the next six months. His right foot needs the same surgery he had on the left foot. His ears need reconstruction and he has heavy scars that really bother him.

Tison has done well and is speaking predominately English. He has a couple friends he likes to play with. This summer he has been to Hawaii and jet skiing on Harding Lake. It is amazing to him that it is light so late into the night.

BGAN

2010-06-09T19:05:00.002-08:00

The amazing technology of this day allows us to communicate with our leaders in Indonesia. We have a satellite phone for emergencies and outgoing calls. We also have a system called BGAN to send emails. It connects to a satellite and then sends the message. We are charged a flat rate and beyond the allowed minutes we are charged for each additional minute.

I am writing about this because right now the BGAN is out of operation. It is being repaired but could take some time to be installed at the base.

We are actually looking for a better system. Hopefully we can upgrade the communications. These are the challenges to being so remote. We are at the end of the earth.

Open Doors

2010-05-28T00:41:00.002-08:00

I am always looking for partners. I have met some amazing people over the last nine and a half years. I have been to the Australian outback to the frozen villages of Alaska. You can never judge a place by its size or location.

I just go where the doors open. If they open in Pennsylvania--I will find a way to get there. I remember Gustavo and his family so well in Reading, Pennsylvania. What an awesome family. Then there is Greg the rancher in Australia. He and his entire family are amazing people. They work hard and are strong in their faith. There are so many out of the way places with people I now call my friends.

Tomorrow I will be going to Valdez, Alaska. Valdez is one of the most beautiful places in Alaska. The mountains surround the city but the friends I have in that city are very meaningful to me.

Then the next door that opened will be in places like--Palmer, Soldotna, Anchorage, Delta, Springfield and North Pole, Boise, Nampa and Twin Falls. I hope to find more open doors.

Communication Down

2010-05-10T15:34:00.002-08:00

The Kusuri Clinic and Medical Base is very remote. The Island of Halmahera is one of the approximate 17,000 islands in the nation of Indonesia. It is a very historic place also know as the Spice Islands. The Dutch, Portuguese and Japanese controlled these islands over the years. The islands are amazing and the rich volcanic soil and the tropical climate make is a rare growing environment. It is so beautiful and yet it is remote. The Kusuri base does not have phone connection. We have a satellite connection in order to maintain email communication.

It works well but on occasion we have either a problem with the access to the satellite. I maintain regular contact with Peter Scarborough with regular updates and communication about the work. I got a note from Peter that he lost the satellite connection. He went methodically over each of the components and it would not connect. He had to travel 20 miles to the nearest city to send an email. There is one business which has computer access. Their on-line service is on and off--mostly off. Peter was able send me a note and inform me about the loss of satellite access.

We are working on getting the needed equipment and problem solve the possible problem. It just reminded me how easily the lines of communication can be disrupted can how important it is to maintain contact.

Healing His Face

2010-05-05T16:00:00.002-08:00

Tison has his skin graft to his chin and face. The skin is healing and looking much better. He had a very uncomfortable gauze covering sown over the new skin graft. it was on about a week he was embarrassed about it and it was uncomfortable. He was very happy when the gauze was removed.

It was a beautiful day and I had a chance to get a nice photo of his chin and lip. We took a long walk and just enjoyed the sunny day. It is snowing as I write--what a crazy place to live.

"Break-up"

2010-04-27T13:27:00.004-08:00

Break-up is a word used here in Alaska to signify the end of winter and the beginning of our summer. Summer is close when the snow and ice begin to melt. The sun is higher in the sky and everyone has a smile. The river ice "breaks-up" and the deep green waters appear again.

It is a time out get out the bikes and jet ski's. Tison got in full swing with his first ride on the bike at the Johnson's. He is just having a great time. His left foot is still in a protective cover but it did not stop or discourage him. I know he will have many more rides on the bike--who could blame him. We have more minutes of daylight each day (until June 21) and we make the best of it.

Finally Home

2010-04-21T13:15:00.002-08:00

It was three weeks on the road. I was in Portland, Oregon for a week. Phoenix, Arizona for another week and Boise fort he final week. It seemed like a lot longer but I am now back in Fairbanks. I left with snow on the ground and came back with it clear of snow.

I spoke at a number of meeting and got to connect with some of our partners. We have amazing people who are standing with us.

However good the trip--it is great to be home.

A Great Smile

2010-03-30T22:51:00.004-08:00

Tison had an appointment with his surgeon today. He is doing well following his second surgery. The graft on his left ankle is healing nicely. The big toe on the same foot setting well. It was a positive report and the next step in his progress was set.

Tison has a radiant smile and it will only get better. He will have plastic surgery to his face in about two weeks. That smile will get better and brighter.

His English language skill are really improving. He is very smart and is eager to learn. His behavior has been excellent--he is learning to say thank you and please.

My Name Sake

2010-03-25T21:15:00.003-08:00

When I first saw him in February I was not sure he would even live another day. He was very frail and sick. He was a throw away child--just like the other children we have in our care. He was born at our hospital and was unwanted. I was told by Peter Scarborough that they had named him. His name was Carl. I took a long look at him and wondered if little Carl would even live.

I got a report that his caretaker, Ribka, was doing a great job in his care and he was improving. He might make it. I was very happy to hear this child was improving--not because we shared names but because he was not expected to survive. He was a fighter and has a will to live.

Today, I got the photo of little Carl--he is with Ribka, his caretaker. He really looks great. I am so proud of Ribka for her faithful care to this little life. She saved his life.

Scarborough's Going Home

2010-03-16T01:17:00.002-08:00

Peter and Esther Scarborough, the directors of the Hohidiai base, have been in Australia for personal time and to meet with friends and partners. Their sons, Leigh and Andrew, both were married in January. These were exciting times and what an honor for them to be there to see their sons start a new chapter in their lives.

Esther had her hands full with the little ones she brought to Australia with them--along with Miriam and Amy, their birth children, they brought Victor, Teresa, Jasmine, Della, Listari, and Merna. I might have even missed one or two. Esther has never backed away from a challenge. Peter tells about going to the zoo with this bunch. I can imagine the fun he had trying to keep track of this crew.

I know they are ready to be back home. They are just amazing people and have been the vision and heart of the work at the Hohidiai Medical Base. The base is a very busy place and will only get busier when the Scarborough clan arrives at the base.

A Leg Up

2010-03-09T18:46:00.003-09:00

Tison has his left leg elevated following his second surgery. This is a real restriction to his active lifestyle. He went from snowboarding and sledding to having to put his leg on a pillow--does not seem fair.

The skin graft came from the upper left leg. The surgeon put him under sedation on Monday to remove the wrapping and to inspect the graft. He came out of the surgery room very pleased at the condition of the graft. The graft is still very sensitive and needs more time to heal.

The good news is the big toe on the left foot is in the normal position. In time, his foot could set flat. It will take time for the ligaments to loosen. He should be able to run like the other children once all this heals.

A wheelchair was given to help Tison get around at home. It has served its purpose and more. He can keep his leg up and move around the house. This is fun and he could be in the chair as much as three weeks. We will see how it goes.

Number Two Done

2010-03-04T15:34:00.003-09:00

He was asking for water following his second surgery. Tison did very well in the three hours he was in the operating room. The pin that was inserted in the thumb of his right hand during the first surgery was removed. The surgeon cleaned up some scar tissue that will vastly improve the range of motion on his legs and realigned the big toe on the left foot. A graft of skin was removed from his upper leg and used to repair the toe.

This is a big step and will dramatically improve his walking and running. The tendons on his left foot were very stiff because he has gone three years without stretching these tendons. The release of the big toe could help release the tendons as they are used for the first time in years.

Tison did a great job and was aware of everything. He came into pre-op and knew each step of the process. I was also impressed with how much English he is using. Number two surgery is done and now we will come back in four days to have the wrapping changed.

Red-ee

2010-03-01T13:37:00.002-09:00

Tison was sick last month when he was scheduled for his second surgery. He will have this surgery on Thursday. He is ready (red-ee) for this next step. He likes the word ready--but he pronounces it red-ee. This was one of the first words he learned. We would ask him, "Are you ready?" He would say, "Red-ee". Now, he better be ready for this surgery.

This is an important process for him. He will have his left foot freed from the contractures. The end result is to have the foot lay flat in a normal position. It will mean a lot of new function for him once he is recovered. He has been walking on the side of his foot, since the time of the injury. I can only imagine, how Tison will feel when he realizes the improvement he will have following his recovery from this surgery. I am sure he is more than red-ee for that.

Next Surgery

2010-02-25T01:04:00.003-09:00

March 4 will be a big day for Tison. He will have his second surgery since arriving in Alaska. He was sick when his second surgery was originally scheduled. It was rescheduled and the countdown begins. This is a very important surgery because the surgeon will work on removing the contractures on the left ankle. This will hopefully allow his foot resume the normal flat position. He has been walking on the side of his foot since the burn accident.

It will take a while for him to recover from this surgery. He has been active and doing so well in the snow. He likes to be moving, so the time waiting to heal could be tough. I feel he will do OK but we need to pray for him.

Down Hill

2010-02-21T00:51:00.004-09:00

It seems like Tison loves going down hill. He has adapted to the winter in Alaska very well. Who would have thought a child who knows only sandy beaches and tropical weather, would feel so at home in the snow. His host family has made it possible for him to enjoy sledding, snow machining, and snowboarding.

I have watched Tison play soccer for hours in Indonesia, even with his disabilities. Soccer is really a popular sport in Indonesia. He told me, "He liked snowboarding more than soccer". Liz Wood wrote--he might be the first Indonesian snowboarder. The value of all this is he remains active and he is open to enjoying the environment of his new home. Going down hill is really making it, over a hill, in a way.

He Left for Home

2010-02-15T01:32:00.002-09:00

He came as a translator and to help Tison adjust to his new home in Alaska. Hendra was here for over two months. He is an amazing young man with a hunger to learn and a gift of serving. He did everything he was asked and did it with a humble gentleness. His study of the English language started when a young American came to Indonesia and taught an introductory English class. Hendra had a passion to learn and pursued his degree in English. He did not know he would some day come to the U.S. as an interpreter.

Hendra left on Friday for Jakarta. He had lots of experiences here in the cold north. He had never been colder than 75 F. while growing up in Indonesia and he experienced minus 40 F. while he was here. He got to see several moose and hundreds of caribou. He loved the frozen waterfalls near Valdez and could believe people in this bitter cold would be in bathing suits at a popular hot springs. He taught a class on Indonesian to several of us. He is a very gifted teacher--we were challenging students.

He has left for home--we will really miss him. I think he really found a home here. He has a five year U.S. multiple entry visa. I hope he will come again--we need a good Indonesian language teacher up here.

No Surgery Today

2010-02-04T09:01:00.003-09:00

We all walked into the surgery center at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital early in the morning on February 4. Tison had picked up a cold over night. That was not a good sign for the scheduled surgery. The nurse came into the pre-op room and took his vitals and expressed a little concern but said the decision to have the surgery was up to the Anaesthesiologist. We waited for a while and then the Anaesthesiologist came in and in a short time he made the call to cancel the surgery.

The surgeon came by later and told us he thought the next surgery will be in about three weeks. This is a part of the process and we will take it in stride. You cannot predict when a child will get sick or have an injury. We cannot look in the rear view mirror and asking the "if" or "we should have" questions. We just face each day and each situation with hope and prayer. He will have a couple days off school, trying to get well.

Hendra, the interpreter, will leave next week for Indonesia. He has been awesome and has already stayed much longer than we first thought. He has made it much easier for everyone. We will miss him, but it is time for all of us to go to the next level.

Nine Little Fish

2010-02-01T11:19:00.004-09:00

Tison has been very active since he came to Fairbanks. The Johnson's, his host family, have made many opportunities for him to enjoy the fun activities of Alaska. In Indonesia, Tison's father is a fisherman, in the remote region of North Maluku. Tison talks about his father and the fish he catches, now he is also catching fish. It is very different when you can drive on the lake and drill a hole in the two feet thick ice and put your hook and line down the hole.

He went out this weekend and was so happy they caught nine small trout. He is having a good time while he awaits his surgery on Thursday. The Johnson's have been very careful to keep him active in the intervals between surgeries. Tison will have many memories of his time here--he will remember the day they caught nine fish. I am sure these little fish will grow in his mind and become nine big fish, if he is a true fisherman. He will also have the memory of so many people who have been kind to him and made his time in Alaska enjoyable.

Next Step

2010-01-27T00:10:00.003-09:00

The next surgery for Tison is very close. The first surgery is healing well and the surgeon is confident he is ready for the next step. February 4 is the date set for the surgery.

His translator, Hendra, was able to stay about a month longer than he was planning. He has enough time on his visa and he has been very gracious to give another month to assist in Tison's transition.

The next surgery will realign his great toe on his left foot and improve the range of motion for his legs. We are so pleased that Hendra is able to be here for the surgery. Tison has done well with the first surgery and we are hopeful that the next surgery will also go the same. He will have many steps to this recovery and this is the next one.

Thumbs Up

2010-01-19T13:46:00.004-09:00

Thumbs up is the best way to describe Tison's first surgery. Literally, Tison's injured thumb is now up. It was bent backwards in a very awkward and useless angle. The thumb on his right hand was pointing backwards. It was painful just to look at it. It was completely non-functioning. The first surgery turned the thumb into its normal position. The surgeon placed a pin in the end of the thumb to hold it in the correct angle until it heals. Tison is actually starting to move it--he likes to show the progress it is making.

The next surgery will be decided very soon. I am thankful the pain management went well and Tison is seeing the progress in the function of his hand. He knows the pain of an untreated burn. He also can see that great care is being taken to keep that pain at a minimum. The skin graft around his wrist is also looking good. I would say it is a real thumbs up in all aspects.

Recovering

2010-01-13T07:40:00.003-09:00

Tison came out of surgery thirsty and groggy. If you have every been in surgery, you know the feeling but likely do not remember much. He did very well following the surgery on his right wrist and thumb. He was taken to his room and had his right hand elevated. A good first night sleep followed and he was released the next morning.

After arriving home he asked for French fries, chicken nuggets, and ketchup. The three main food groups for this guy. If you add rice and chicken soup you have the five main groups. He eats well and I think he has gained some weight.

Following his burn accident, Tison has endure pain at a level that I cannot imagine. Understandably, he was concerned about the pain he would have from the surgery. I think the pain management was positive for him. The nursing staff was sensitive to his pain issues. This was an important step for him. He can now go into the next surgeries with an idea of what he will face and assurance that his pain will be minimal. The recovery is another issue as he will need to do some possibly painful physical therapy.

First Surgery is Done

2010-01-11T20:24:00.002-09:00

Tison came out of the two hour surgery, completing a major hurdle in the year of care in the U.S. The hospital staff did a wonderful job of preparing him and making him comfortable with the unknown ahead of him. He has never had surgery before. He was aware of why he was here and the day of his reconstruction had finally come.

Liz Wood, the nurse who has a major role in his care, wrote her evaluation of the surgery, "Some work on his thumb and skin grafting to his right wrist to release that tight band was done. He (the surgeon) had to take skin from his thigh to release the band. The tip of his thumb is still bent but the joint closest to his hand is now back in place. It is held in place with a pin. We will have to see if it will hold. For the toe, he just injected the scar to see if he can soften it up before actual surgery on it. All, in all, a good first step. Still a long way to go."

Tison his receiving great care and lots of support by the Johnson's, his American family. Hendra, his translator, was at his side all day but will leave on Sunday. He has been a valuable help and has made the adjustment for Tison much easier. Tison is strong and is now one step closer to the goal.

First Surgery

2010-01-04T14:08:00.003-09:00

Tison has had a wonderful Christmas and has seen a lot of new things. I have written about his adjustments and the many people who have been a part of his first month here in Fairbanks. He is a lot of fun and is really making strides in his English language. I am surprised at how fast he is picking up phrases and key words.

The real reason he has come here is to get his burn injuries treated. Liz sent us a note with the awesome news that he has the date of January 11th (Monday) set for his first surgery. The surgeon will let us know tomorrow what he will attempt first. Tison has a lot of work to do and will take several surgeries. It will be one step at a time.

The month he has been here has been important for him to become comfortable with all of us. He even says the cold (minus 5-25 F.) is not cold. He laughs and says in Indonesian--this is not cold, it is hot. He has found a place in our hearts now he will have a new mountain to face.

He was having fun one day with colored clay and he made some glasses. He is creative and fun.

The Afterglow

2009-12-26T18:02:00.004-09:00

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

2009-12-23T15:26:00.002-09:00

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

2009-12-19T23:50:00.003-09:00

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

2009-12-16T15:40:00.003-09:00

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

2009-12-11T17:29:00.005-09:00

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

2009-12-10T12:43:00.004-09:00

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

2009-12-01T23:07:00.004-09:00

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

2009-11-24T10:42:00.003-09:00

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

2009-11-20T22:38:00.002-09:00

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

2009-11-16T18:53:00.002-09:00

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

2009-11-11T13:03:00.002-09:00

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

2009-11-04T22:07:00.002-09:00

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

2009-11-01T16:58:00.002-09:00

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

2009-10-25T13:48:00.004-08:00

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

2009-10-18T23:31:00.002-08:00

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

2009-10-13T15:19:00.002-08:00

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’