Updates from Solid Rock Missions teams as they serve in San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
New Community Church Nov 13-20
New Community Church from Elizabeth City, NC is the current mission team staying at the guest house. You can follow our adventures here New Community Church Missions.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
FPC Surgery Team
The trip ended up well, and the FPC Surgery team wants to comment on the current status of the O.R. with special comments for ENT type procedures:
The ENT clinic saw 72 people of which 22 had surgery. We did mostly T and A's with ages from 4 to 31. We did one nasal case, turbinate reductions. Twelve potential surgery cases were also seen, including 4 tympanomastoidectomies, 2 nasal polyposis, 1 septoplasty, and a thyroglossal duct cyst all remain waiting for surgery.
For ENT surgeons, I recommend bringing your own surgical instruments, suction cauteries or other electrosurgical hand pieces, and grounding pads. In fact it is somewhat easier to tell you what is there and working: anesthesia machine, suction, and the bovie.
For the recovery room, I would bring anti-emetics such as zofran and non-narcotic pain meds such as toradol, tramadol, tylenol and motrin with liquid formulations when indicated. We had two working pulse oximeters and a nebulizer in the RR as well.
Current needs for O.R.:
Suction cautery handpieces and grounding pads
spinal needles
Marcaine
red rubbers and nasogastric tubes
10 cc pre-filled saline flushes
IV angiocaths, 24, 22, and 20g
4 x 4 sterile guaze
1 liter NS bottles and IVF's
oral antibiotics: Amoxil, Augmentin, Clindamycin, azythromycin
Again, for other major surgeries other than T and A's, ENT surgeons should bring all instruments and associated drugs/supplies including an otological drill. The Storz microscope is still there and in working condition.
Matt Speyer
The ENT clinic saw 72 people of which 22 had surgery. We did mostly T and A's with ages from 4 to 31. We did one nasal case, turbinate reductions. Twelve potential surgery cases were also seen, including 4 tympanomastoidectomies, 2 nasal polyposis, 1 septoplasty, and a thyroglossal duct cyst all remain waiting for surgery.
For ENT surgeons, I recommend bringing your own surgical instruments, suction cauteries or other electrosurgical hand pieces, and grounding pads. In fact it is somewhat easier to tell you what is there and working: anesthesia machine, suction, and the bovie.
For the recovery room, I would bring anti-emetics such as zofran and non-narcotic pain meds such as toradol, tramadol, tylenol and motrin with liquid formulations when indicated. We had two working pulse oximeters and a nebulizer in the RR as well.
Current needs for O.R.:
Suction cautery handpieces and grounding pads
spinal needles
Marcaine
red rubbers and nasogastric tubes
10 cc pre-filled saline flushes
IV angiocaths, 24, 22, and 20g
4 x 4 sterile guaze
1 liter NS bottles and IVF's
oral antibiotics: Amoxil, Augmentin, Clindamycin, azythromycin
Again, for other major surgeries other than T and A's, ENT surgeons should bring all instruments and associated drugs/supplies including an otological drill. The Storz microscope is still there and in working condition.
Matt Speyer
Friday, November 12, 2010
First Pres- Last day in San Juan
Up early again with the chickens on our travel day. We spent last night debriefing and having fun talking about our experiences here this week. We went through the med room and did some cleaning and taking inventory. The following are our thoughts on what is needed and used out in the barrios.
Pediatrics
Liquid iron
liquid vitamins
any liquid or chewable antibiotic for kids
liquid tylenol and advil
fluoride
mebendazole and albendazol for parasites- these are expensive in the us though we found a big bottle of albendazole 400 mg from Blessings Innternational in Tulsa that we used extensively. half a bottle left in the med room
Adult medicine
cipro
amoxicillin
flagyl 500 for vaginitis
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen by the buckets
Famotidine and Ranitidine and tums by the buckets
Topical antifungals
Amlodipine for bp- all the Dominicans are on enalapril and atenolol which i am not sure about effectiveness
used a lot of HCTZ and there were multiple bottles of this . There was also a lot of Furosemide remaining which was not used
Vaginal antifungals
eye drops for dry eyes
Things that are not needed
antidiarrheals - we used more laxatives
aspirin
nonsterile gloves
bandaids and wound care stuff
diabetes care - i saw one person on insulin and no one on oral agents the whole week
Cephalexin- there were multiple big bottles that we used extensively
Betsy Triggs our pediatrician had the following items for the kids which were big hits
old baseball hats
small stuffed animals
sunglasses
toothbrushes and toothpaste
we bought the stuffed animals and baseball hats at garage sales back home for almost nothing
As noted above, the barrios require uncomplicated medicine though plenty of patience. The experience though was very rewarding. Off to the airport in 2 hours. Will see everyone tonight at home.
Jim Cato
Pediatrics
Liquid iron
liquid vitamins
any liquid or chewable antibiotic for kids
liquid tylenol and advil
fluoride
mebendazole and albendazol for parasites- these are expensive in the us though we found a big bottle of albendazole 400 mg from Blessings Innternational in Tulsa that we used extensively. half a bottle left in the med room
Adult medicine
cipro
amoxicillin
flagyl 500 for vaginitis
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen by the buckets
Famotidine and Ranitidine and tums by the buckets
Topical antifungals
Amlodipine for bp- all the Dominicans are on enalapril and atenolol which i am not sure about effectiveness
used a lot of HCTZ and there were multiple bottles of this . There was also a lot of Furosemide remaining which was not used
Vaginal antifungals
eye drops for dry eyes
Things that are not needed
antidiarrheals - we used more laxatives
aspirin
nonsterile gloves
bandaids and wound care stuff
diabetes care - i saw one person on insulin and no one on oral agents the whole week
Cephalexin- there were multiple big bottles that we used extensively
Betsy Triggs our pediatrician had the following items for the kids which were big hits
old baseball hats
small stuffed animals
sunglasses
toothbrushes and toothpaste
we bought the stuffed animals and baseball hats at garage sales back home for almost nothing
As noted above, the barrios require uncomplicated medicine though plenty of patience. The experience though was very rewarding. Off to the airport in 2 hours. Will see everyone tonight at home.
Jim Cato
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Hola from SRM!
Thursday, November 11
Today started with some excitement! As I walked with sleepy eyes to get my coffee I came upon a HUGE tarantula! It was the first sighting of the week. Glad we got to see one, but I'm also hoping I don't see another! The tarantula made its way into the dining area mid-morning, but two-year Caleb was prepared with the fly swatter. I'm not sure what the fate of our 8-legged friend was.....
We had a short and beautiful ride to Los Cerros de Chalona. We set up our clinic in a small vodoo church. It was an open air clinic--no walls and dirt floors. We had to run off a hog as we set up for the day. We had a view of the mountains and a refreshing breeze all day. We were able to see all of our patients (probably the whole village) by 2pm. It was the smallest clinic of the week, but we saw approximately 160 patients today.
As I looked around the clinic today, I smiled as I recognized how familiar my new colleagues have become. Betsy Triggs, the pediatrician, wore friendly and youthful pigtails. She seems to have a very gentle touch and a loving smile. Jim Cato, the internist, is jovial and laid back. He is always quick to joke and share a laugh with his patients as well as the rest of us. Steven, the ER doc (and my husband) is very efficient and practical. He kept 2 translators busy part of the day. Rebecca was so impressive as a pharmacist and a translator. Her social work experience and her ability to translate have been invaluable. Lisa efficiently organized all our trinkets and tooth paste/brushes which were probably the highlight of our visit for the kids. She used our rubber gloves to make balloons and entertain the multiple kids that several mommas brought to be seen. As we passed the kids on the street on the way home we smiled as we recognized the baseball hats, sunglassed and gloves that many were wearing.
The surgical team had another successful day--5 tonsillectomies including a child that Betsy referred from the barrios yesterday! They have finished and are leaving for a ride through the countryside.
Juan Carlos, one of our interpretors and an aspiring teacher gave us many Spanish lessons this week. Steven, in particular, has learned a lot of Spanish from him. One of our favorite phrases we learned this week is:
"Vamos hacer un trabajo de Dios" which means "Let's do God's work!" We feel blessed to have had the opportunity to do God's work in San Juan de la Maguana. We look forward to a return visit!
Amanda Ragle
Today started with some excitement! As I walked with sleepy eyes to get my coffee I came upon a HUGE tarantula! It was the first sighting of the week. Glad we got to see one, but I'm also hoping I don't see another! The tarantula made its way into the dining area mid-morning, but two-year Caleb was prepared with the fly swatter. I'm not sure what the fate of our 8-legged friend was.....
We had a short and beautiful ride to Los Cerros de Chalona. We set up our clinic in a small vodoo church. It was an open air clinic--no walls and dirt floors. We had to run off a hog as we set up for the day. We had a view of the mountains and a refreshing breeze all day. We were able to see all of our patients (probably the whole village) by 2pm. It was the smallest clinic of the week, but we saw approximately 160 patients today.
As I looked around the clinic today, I smiled as I recognized how familiar my new colleagues have become. Betsy Triggs, the pediatrician, wore friendly and youthful pigtails. She seems to have a very gentle touch and a loving smile. Jim Cato, the internist, is jovial and laid back. He is always quick to joke and share a laugh with his patients as well as the rest of us. Steven, the ER doc (and my husband) is very efficient and practical. He kept 2 translators busy part of the day. Rebecca was so impressive as a pharmacist and a translator. Her social work experience and her ability to translate have been invaluable. Lisa efficiently organized all our trinkets and tooth paste/brushes which were probably the highlight of our visit for the kids. She used our rubber gloves to make balloons and entertain the multiple kids that several mommas brought to be seen. As we passed the kids on the street on the way home we smiled as we recognized the baseball hats, sunglassed and gloves that many were wearing.
The surgical team had another successful day--5 tonsillectomies including a child that Betsy referred from the barrios yesterday! They have finished and are leaving for a ride through the countryside.
Juan Carlos, one of our interpretors and an aspiring teacher gave us many Spanish lessons this week. Steven, in particular, has learned a lot of Spanish from him. One of our favorite phrases we learned this week is:
"Vamos hacer un trabajo de Dios" which means "Let's do God's work!" We feel blessed to have had the opportunity to do God's work in San Juan de la Maguana. We look forward to a return visit!
Amanda Ragle
Wednesday update First Pres Nashville
It's Thursday at 530 am. The rooster started later today. Matt has already updated on the surgery yesterday. The barrio team went to the local market where basically you can buy anything though mainly clothes from the US though Haiti to the DR and locally grown produce. I saw a lady shelling peas who I saw last year. She said she had been doing the same thing 40 years. She seemed happy that I recognized her and took her picture again.
The drive to Arroyo Cana was northeast through beautiful mountains. Even passed through a little town named Buena Vista overlooking a river valley. As always you see people with buckets getting water at almost every river crossing. There are always more cows and goats on the roads than behind the fences. Not sure I understand the concept of the fences except to maybe keep out the people.
The town was hilly with unpaved streets. There were lots of coffee beans drying in the sun on sheets on the ground. The team set up in a local church, all in one room (the only room). The front wall of the church was about 6-8 feet below street level with narrow uneven steps leading to the front door. The people waiting to be seen gather at the door and are crowded from behind by others waiting. As the day wears on the crowd becomes more anxious to be seen by the Americanos and more unruly. Every time the door opens, there was a cacophony of noise and people literally fell through the door. Juan is not only the doorkeeper but our local minister. He rules with a kind though firm hand. Whenever one of the young guys try to do the job they get over-run. Juan just laughs.
Stephen and Amanda Ragle are a well oiled patient seeing machine. Betsy Triggs is still smiling and calm at the end of the day. Lisa does pharmacy and trinkets and love. Rebecca has been a rock in the pharmacy. Some of her visual demos of med use have been hilarious. Her experience working with refugees at home has been invaluable. I seem to get the oldest people ( just like back home). I saw a 99 year old and gave him some Tylenol. Told him giving him anything strong might do him in. He laughed. Gray hair on me comes in handy. I would tell them all that I take advil for the same aches and pains that they have. They all laugh also. One man told me I was funnier than Dominican doctors
We gather at night after dinner and talk about the day. The devotionals have been informal and personal.
We appreciate the support from our families and friends and churches. Will be home tomorrow night. Pray for our safe journey home.
En Christo
Jim Cato
The drive to Arroyo Cana was northeast through beautiful mountains. Even passed through a little town named Buena Vista overlooking a river valley. As always you see people with buckets getting water at almost every river crossing. There are always more cows and goats on the roads than behind the fences. Not sure I understand the concept of the fences except to maybe keep out the people.
The town was hilly with unpaved streets. There were lots of coffee beans drying in the sun on sheets on the ground. The team set up in a local church, all in one room (the only room). The front wall of the church was about 6-8 feet below street level with narrow uneven steps leading to the front door. The people waiting to be seen gather at the door and are crowded from behind by others waiting. As the day wears on the crowd becomes more anxious to be seen by the Americanos and more unruly. Every time the door opens, there was a cacophony of noise and people literally fell through the door. Juan is not only the doorkeeper but our local minister. He rules with a kind though firm hand. Whenever one of the young guys try to do the job they get over-run. Juan just laughs.
Stephen and Amanda Ragle are a well oiled patient seeing machine. Betsy Triggs is still smiling and calm at the end of the day. Lisa does pharmacy and trinkets and love. Rebecca has been a rock in the pharmacy. Some of her visual demos of med use have been hilarious. Her experience working with refugees at home has been invaluable. I seem to get the oldest people ( just like back home). I saw a 99 year old and gave him some Tylenol. Told him giving him anything strong might do him in. He laughed. Gray hair on me comes in handy. I would tell them all that I take advil for the same aches and pains that they have. They all laugh also. One man told me I was funnier than Dominican doctors
We gather at night after dinner and talk about the day. The devotionals have been informal and personal.
We appreciate the support from our families and friends and churches. Will be home tomorrow night. Pray for our safe journey home.
En Christo
Jim Cato
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Wednesday's FPC Team
Hello again bloggers:
Another beautiful day here in the D.R.; highs temps around 80 degrees, but with high humidity. It's a wet heat!
The surgical team is like a well-oiled machine now. We even put on some music in the O.R. as we went about our day with 7 cases and just a couple of patients in the ENT clinic. One adult patient even asked to take her tonsils home with her.............in the states we say no. Here, we obliged. Along with her Tylenol and Amoxil we put her tonsils in a plastic bag and sent her home. I wonder just what she'll do with them. Certainly a conversation piece, or perhaps she could have them stuffed and put on the wall.
So far we have seen 71 patients and have completed 18 surgical cases. So far so good. We are scheduled for our final 6 cases tomorrow, and don't expect but a couple more clinic patients to finish up the week.
We are all doing well and appreciate all of your prayers and support this week. Once again it's been a fantastic experience. The smaller group here at the guesthouse has been a luxury: not as many dishes to wash and we have warm water when taking a shower........at least in the afternoons. Shhhh, don't tell anyone.
God is amazing and his presence is surely felt here. For those who have been, you know what I mean.
Matt Speyer
Another beautiful day here in the D.R.; highs temps around 80 degrees, but with high humidity. It's a wet heat!
The surgical team is like a well-oiled machine now. We even put on some music in the O.R. as we went about our day with 7 cases and just a couple of patients in the ENT clinic. One adult patient even asked to take her tonsils home with her.............in the states we say no. Here, we obliged. Along with her Tylenol and Amoxil we put her tonsils in a plastic bag and sent her home. I wonder just what she'll do with them. Certainly a conversation piece, or perhaps she could have them stuffed and put on the wall.
So far we have seen 71 patients and have completed 18 surgical cases. So far so good. We are scheduled for our final 6 cases tomorrow, and don't expect but a couple more clinic patients to finish up the week.
We are all doing well and appreciate all of your prayers and support this week. Once again it's been a fantastic experience. The smaller group here at the guesthouse has been a luxury: not as many dishes to wash and we have warm water when taking a shower........at least in the afternoons. Shhhh, don't tell anyone.
God is amazing and his presence is surely felt here. For those who have been, you know what I mean.
Matt Speyer
Tuesday update First Presbyterian Nashville
It is 450am on Wednesday and we were all too tired to blog last pm. The ear plugs kept the roosters at bay only so long. It is quiet here otherwise.
The team has settled in to a good routine. We all went to the flag ceremony at the school in the morning. Great time mingling with the kids shooting baskets and talking with teachers. Just as in the US, education is the key for these kids, and SRM is doing a wonderful job.
The surgery team is running smoothly with 7 cases yesterday. Mike and Kate from NC are handling anesthesia like pros (according to Matt). Katie Kennedy and Angela Jones are doing OR nursing and recovery room
The medical team took off south through the countryside to El Azul, about one hour away. The drive once again was through magnificent countryside. Lisa thought is was great that we had to stop and ask directions from guys riding on donkeys. The living conditions in the towns we pass through certainly make you appreciate back home. The image of childern carrying buckets to the local stream for their families' water reinforce our desire to help with clean water on some future trips. We set up in a community center and saw about 210 patients. Each town has its own personality and it is interesting to compare day to day. At lunch we walked in the town. Some Haitian men were digging an irrigation ditch by hand through heavy rocks. One of the interpreters Juan Carlos spoke Creole with them. He asked if they were hungry and they said yes though were too busy to eat. He gave them our extra food and got in the ditch and dug while they ate our meager left overs. Our guys that work for SRM all have a calling.
Everyone is doing well and healthy so far. People are starting to stir and Juanita just put on the coffee. Off to the market this am then back to medicine. Look forward to hearing from you back home.
Jim Cato
The team has settled in to a good routine. We all went to the flag ceremony at the school in the morning. Great time mingling with the kids shooting baskets and talking with teachers. Just as in the US, education is the key for these kids, and SRM is doing a wonderful job.
The surgery team is running smoothly with 7 cases yesterday. Mike and Kate from NC are handling anesthesia like pros (according to Matt). Katie Kennedy and Angela Jones are doing OR nursing and recovery room
The medical team took off south through the countryside to El Azul, about one hour away. The drive once again was through magnificent countryside. Lisa thought is was great that we had to stop and ask directions from guys riding on donkeys. The living conditions in the towns we pass through certainly make you appreciate back home. The image of childern carrying buckets to the local stream for their families' water reinforce our desire to help with clean water on some future trips. We set up in a community center and saw about 210 patients. Each town has its own personality and it is interesting to compare day to day. At lunch we walked in the town. Some Haitian men were digging an irrigation ditch by hand through heavy rocks. One of the interpreters Juan Carlos spoke Creole with them. He asked if they were hungry and they said yes though were too busy to eat. He gave them our extra food and got in the ditch and dug while they ate our meager left overs. Our guys that work for SRM all have a calling.
Everyone is doing well and healthy so far. People are starting to stir and Juanita just put on the coffee. Off to the market this am then back to medicine. Look forward to hearing from you back home.
Jim Cato
Monday, November 8, 2010
Guesthouse Update for Monday
OK followers here is the update for our first REAL day of work in San Juan:
Dr. Triggs and Dr. Cato along with Dr. and Dr. Ragle went out to a barrio about 45 minutes away and saw around 160 patients. I will let Dr. Cato expand on any details there. One thing for sure, they beat me today. I was still finishing up clinic when they came back to the guesthouse. In fact, Dr. Cato joined me in the ENT clinic and helped me finish up. A big thanks to him.
I saw a dozens of patients and was able to complete 5 tonsillectomies which is a major success given today was our first clinic day. The patients were seen and examined by an internist prior to my arrival, so some came expecting surgery today or tomorrow. I was glad to get the 5 on the schedule today. All did well, and with God's grace will heal uneventfully too.
The food is great and we are all in good health. We are having a blast, and look forward to another productive day tomorrow.
The weather is great, mild during the day, and even cool enough to need a blanket at night which is very surprising.
Better yet, the rooster is keeping quiet or at least not crowing until 5 am or so.............
Matt Speyer
The day started with Matt rousting me out of bed at 630am. The earplugs to dampen out the rooster crowing next to the guest house certainly did the job on keeping me asleep. Great breakfast as usual. Juanita and Frank are filling in admirably for Joe and Shannon though we miss then both.
Met with our friends and interpreters Olvis and Johnny from last year as well as new guys Juan Carlos, Marino, Naftily, and Richard. The ever present Juan Erstesto the local minister( or San Juan as I call him) accompanied us on the barrio trip. He was very appreciative of the pamphlets in Spanish about Christ provided by First Pres and handed them out enthusiastically at the barrio. He told me on the way home that 4 people had found Jesus today!
The trip to La Jugare was west from San Juan for 20 minutes then north into the foothills on a pockmarked road another 30 minutes. Incredibly beautiful scenery on the way with green fields and mountains in the background. We set up in the local school in one room with people watching through the windows. Betsy as usual saw a gaggle of kids and Amanda, Stephen, and I saw adults. Never know what you are treating just all seat of the pants medicine Lisa Robertson and Rebecca Rollins worked tirelessly as our pharmacists. We walked down to the river at lunch to watch the women washing and boys swimming. Several commented they will not complain of laundry again.
The drive home through the mountain foothills was relaxing and inspiring. The patients we saw were gentle and appreciative. We all feel honored to be here and supported by the people back home. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Until tomorrow. Hasta manana
Jim Cato
Dr. Triggs and Dr. Cato along with Dr. and Dr. Ragle went out to a barrio about 45 minutes away and saw around 160 patients. I will let Dr. Cato expand on any details there. One thing for sure, they beat me today. I was still finishing up clinic when they came back to the guesthouse. In fact, Dr. Cato joined me in the ENT clinic and helped me finish up. A big thanks to him.
I saw a dozens of patients and was able to complete 5 tonsillectomies which is a major success given today was our first clinic day. The patients were seen and examined by an internist prior to my arrival, so some came expecting surgery today or tomorrow. I was glad to get the 5 on the schedule today. All did well, and with God's grace will heal uneventfully too.
The food is great and we are all in good health. We are having a blast, and look forward to another productive day tomorrow.
The weather is great, mild during the day, and even cool enough to need a blanket at night which is very surprising.
Better yet, the rooster is keeping quiet or at least not crowing until 5 am or so.............
Matt Speyer
The day started with Matt rousting me out of bed at 630am. The earplugs to dampen out the rooster crowing next to the guest house certainly did the job on keeping me asleep. Great breakfast as usual. Juanita and Frank are filling in admirably for Joe and Shannon though we miss then both.
Met with our friends and interpreters Olvis and Johnny from last year as well as new guys Juan Carlos, Marino, Naftily, and Richard. The ever present Juan Erstesto the local minister( or San Juan as I call him) accompanied us on the barrio trip. He was very appreciative of the pamphlets in Spanish about Christ provided by First Pres and handed them out enthusiastically at the barrio. He told me on the way home that 4 people had found Jesus today!
The trip to La Jugare was west from San Juan for 20 minutes then north into the foothills on a pockmarked road another 30 minutes. Incredibly beautiful scenery on the way with green fields and mountains in the background. We set up in the local school in one room with people watching through the windows. Betsy as usual saw a gaggle of kids and Amanda, Stephen, and I saw adults. Never know what you are treating just all seat of the pants medicine Lisa Robertson and Rebecca Rollins worked tirelessly as our pharmacists. We walked down to the river at lunch to watch the women washing and boys swimming. Several commented they will not complain of laundry again.
The drive home through the mountain foothills was relaxing and inspiring. The patients we saw were gentle and appreciative. We all feel honored to be here and supported by the people back home. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Until tomorrow. Hasta manana
Jim Cato
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Nashville Team Has Arrived
Hello all,
The Nashville Medical Mission trip is in full swing. Well, it's Sunday morning, and we just arrived last night....but we're all healthy and ready to go.
This morning we will go to church service, then start the staging process for the clinics and O.R. this afternoon. Thanks to all of you who are praying for our trip and the success of the mission.
Juanita and Frank are so nice. We miss Joe and Shannon, and pray for them both. Juanita has some tough shoes to fill with the food preparations, but so far she has demonstrated well. No weight loss for us this trip.
It's feels like we were just here, even though a year has passed. The rooster behaved last night, and only started crowing at 5:30 this morning. Now that is a prayer answered.
If you have been wondering how the recent storm has affected our trip, no worries. Again, prayers were answered as it had almost no affect on our travels yesterday.
Pray for our continued success and safety as we try to do God's work here.
Matt Speyer
The Nashville Medical Mission trip is in full swing. Well, it's Sunday morning, and we just arrived last night....but we're all healthy and ready to go.
This morning we will go to church service, then start the staging process for the clinics and O.R. this afternoon. Thanks to all of you who are praying for our trip and the success of the mission.
Juanita and Frank are so nice. We miss Joe and Shannon, and pray for them both. Juanita has some tough shoes to fill with the food preparations, but so far she has demonstrated well. No weight loss for us this trip.
It's feels like we were just here, even though a year has passed. The rooster behaved last night, and only started crowing at 5:30 this morning. Now that is a prayer answered.
If you have been wondering how the recent storm has affected our trip, no worries. Again, prayers were answered as it had almost no affect on our travels yesterday.
Pray for our continued success and safety as we try to do God's work here.
Matt Speyer
Friday, August 13, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
The Ascent July 3-11
Happy day after 4th of July.
Good day today! We woke up and had a great breakfast and then headed off to VBS. Today was a good first day of VBS. It was the most relaxed day I can remember over the years. We definitely gathered more kids as the morning went on. We soon learned that the 10+ age group was HUGE, so we have to change that for tomorrow. But overall I was very impressed with how things went. After VBS we hung arond to play with the kids around the school. They love to play "caballo" which means horse in Spanish. They just climb on your back and you give them a piggy back ride until some other small child tackles them off of you. This year we invented "caballo carreras". Carrera is race in spanish so we would line up in the street with the kids on our backs and just sprint to the end of the street. They really loved that. The americanos got very very very sweaty with the non stop caballo games. But it was so much fun.
One of the things that I especially loved about today was talking to some kids during snack time. I finally see that my five years of spanish have begun to pay off to the point where I can actually talk to some of the kids in a regular conversation. Of course it's still difficult when they talk really fast but overall it is great being able to talk to them for real.
After VBS we came back for some yummy lunch before heading out to our work project. We had to clean out a lot that Solid Rock owns. There is a half constructed building on the lot that really is just cinderblock walls with openings that are kinda like windows. The lot was so over grown with plants and trees and weeds it was crazy. When we got there we all were kinda shocked at how overgrown this place was. The weeds were most definitely taller than me and I was a little nervous going inside to start clearing it out. I had no idea what was living in there. It turns out there were tarantulas and snakes and maybe a mouse or two. There was also an avacado tree nearby with some rotten avacados that made the place smell oh so pleasant. But we busted it out really fast. A lot of us were using machetes to cut down the weeds and then we would rake them up and then weed whack the rest of the lot. We had to cut down a couple of little trees too, but now it looks so nice. It looks like some one could actually want to buy it now. No more giant weeds that are taller than the walls! Its nice and clean. I'm pretty sure that I have never sweated that much in my life. It was only 85 degrees but the humidity was pretty killer so we were all soaking wet the entire time.
We finished pretty early and then came back to the guest house to just hang out. I'm not sure what everybody else did, but I took a shower and then passed out on my bed for two hours and woke up just in time for dinner. And now all we are all just hanging out. The tailor is here so everybody is busy ordering different stuff like pants, shirts, backpacks, hoodies, and bags.
Anyways, now I think I am gonna go order my stuff from the tailor and then have some toast...
Kelly
Greetings from the DR!,
Today was the first day of working and VBS. I was very open minded about it all and didn't know what to expect. VBS was awesome and chaotic. The kids took over and attacked the guy with all the water noodles and started hitting everyone with them. That was a sight to see. After VBS we came back to the guest house and had ANOTHER wonderful meal by shannon. Then off to work we went. We had to use machettes to whack four feet tall shrubs and grass down, it was a good way to relieve anger haha. After four hours of picking up shrubs, trash, and stones our work was done for the day. OH YA... I almost forgot the lizards, mice, and tarantula the size of my hand (I normally exagerate but I am being completely serious) we also had an encounter with at the work site! After working we played some games and had dinner. During dinner a tailor, painter, and a lady who weaves baskets came if we wanted to purchase any items. All of their work is amazing. I can't wait to see my dress on thursday from the tailor! Well I will write again. I can't wait to see what tomorrow and the rest of the week brings.
Love you mom (hopefully you are reading these)
Sincerely ,
Aubrey
Good day today! We woke up and had a great breakfast and then headed off to VBS. Today was a good first day of VBS. It was the most relaxed day I can remember over the years. We definitely gathered more kids as the morning went on. We soon learned that the 10+ age group was HUGE, so we have to change that for tomorrow. But overall I was very impressed with how things went. After VBS we hung arond to play with the kids around the school. They love to play "caballo" which means horse in Spanish. They just climb on your back and you give them a piggy back ride until some other small child tackles them off of you. This year we invented "caballo carreras". Carrera is race in spanish so we would line up in the street with the kids on our backs and just sprint to the end of the street. They really loved that. The americanos got very very very sweaty with the non stop caballo games. But it was so much fun.
One of the things that I especially loved about today was talking to some kids during snack time. I finally see that my five years of spanish have begun to pay off to the point where I can actually talk to some of the kids in a regular conversation. Of course it's still difficult when they talk really fast but overall it is great being able to talk to them for real.
After VBS we came back for some yummy lunch before heading out to our work project. We had to clean out a lot that Solid Rock owns. There is a half constructed building on the lot that really is just cinderblock walls with openings that are kinda like windows. The lot was so over grown with plants and trees and weeds it was crazy. When we got there we all were kinda shocked at how overgrown this place was. The weeds were most definitely taller than me and I was a little nervous going inside to start clearing it out. I had no idea what was living in there. It turns out there were tarantulas and snakes and maybe a mouse or two. There was also an avacado tree nearby with some rotten avacados that made the place smell oh so pleasant. But we busted it out really fast. A lot of us were using machetes to cut down the weeds and then we would rake them up and then weed whack the rest of the lot. We had to cut down a couple of little trees too, but now it looks so nice. It looks like some one could actually want to buy it now. No more giant weeds that are taller than the walls! Its nice and clean. I'm pretty sure that I have never sweated that much in my life. It was only 85 degrees but the humidity was pretty killer so we were all soaking wet the entire time.
We finished pretty early and then came back to the guest house to just hang out. I'm not sure what everybody else did, but I took a shower and then passed out on my bed for two hours and woke up just in time for dinner. And now all we are all just hanging out. The tailor is here so everybody is busy ordering different stuff like pants, shirts, backpacks, hoodies, and bags.
Anyways, now I think I am gonna go order my stuff from the tailor and then have some toast...
Kelly
Greetings from the DR!,
Today was the first day of working and VBS. I was very open minded about it all and didn't know what to expect. VBS was awesome and chaotic. The kids took over and attacked the guy with all the water noodles and started hitting everyone with them. That was a sight to see. After VBS we came back to the guest house and had ANOTHER wonderful meal by shannon. Then off to work we went. We had to use machettes to whack four feet tall shrubs and grass down, it was a good way to relieve anger haha. After four hours of picking up shrubs, trash, and stones our work was done for the day. OH YA... I almost forgot the lizards, mice, and tarantula the size of my hand (I normally exagerate but I am being completely serious) we also had an encounter with at the work site! After working we played some games and had dinner. During dinner a tailor, painter, and a lady who weaves baskets came if we wanted to purchase any items. All of their work is amazing. I can't wait to see my dress on thursday from the tailor! Well I will write again. I can't wait to see what tomorrow and the rest of the week brings.
Love you mom (hopefully you are reading these)
Sincerely ,
Aubrey
Sunday, July 4, 2010
The Ascent July 3-11
July 4th - Happy Independence Day
so today was our first full day in the DR. it was pretty sweet! we went to a local church in santo domingo this morning. it was cool but soooooooooo hot. then we had a 4 hour ride to the guesthouse...long and hot but wasnt too bad i guess. when we got to the guesthouse a bunch of us walked over to a local little village to meet some of our potential VBS kids. it was fun :) we played football (our football, not theirs) haha. it was good times but the best part of the day was right before dinner. theres a little basketball court here and a couple of us went to play, but right after we started playing it started to rain. now most people wouldnt play ball outside in the rain but we sure did! after about 15 minutes it was literally monsooning on us. hardcore, downpour!!! but we didnt stop! it was truely epic. by far the best way to start off the week. we enjoyed the rain because it probabley wont happen again. so thats it for the first day. i know that this year will be just as amazing as last year.
TJ
so today was our first full day in the DR. it was pretty sweet! we went to a local church in santo domingo this morning. it was cool but soooooooooo hot. then we had a 4 hour ride to the guesthouse...long and hot but wasnt too bad i guess. when we got to the guesthouse a bunch of us walked over to a local little village to meet some of our potential VBS kids. it was fun :) we played football (our football, not theirs) haha. it was good times but the best part of the day was right before dinner. theres a little basketball court here and a couple of us went to play, but right after we started playing it started to rain. now most people wouldnt play ball outside in the rain but we sure did! after about 15 minutes it was literally monsooning on us. hardcore, downpour!!! but we didnt stop! it was truely epic. by far the best way to start off the week. we enjoyed the rain because it probabley wont happen again. so thats it for the first day. i know that this year will be just as amazing as last year.
TJ
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Evan Group-June 26-July 3
Hello everyone! Today we had another successful work day here in the D.R. The weather was a little hotter than yesterday. It was an interesting and crazy day yesterday trying to get all of our projects organized. We were also waiting on some supplies. Two members of our team stayed here at the guesthouse to work on some welding and tree trimming jobs. Another two members of our team got the opportunity to spend some time in the clinic with the doctors/nurses and also got to sit in on two surgeries. It was a great experience for them and they really enjoyed it. They realized just how different Dominican medicine is from clinics in the U.S. Today two members of our team stayed at the guesthouse again to work on welding and tree trimming. An update on our work project at the school would be that we got at least 5 ft. done on the new wall for the bathroom and we started breaking up the concrete floor. Tomorrow we hope to break down the old wall to make the new bathroom twice as big. For the building that the generator will be moved to, we got the third wall built one block from the top. We had fun laying brick and mixing concrete today. We still are unsure how the generator will be moved but we continue to pray for a way, as we are very motivated for that project. We realize that the generator is very important to the school and the childrens' educations. Another prayer request is for the electrical situation. The electricians on our team are having some trouble because the electric system here is very different from the U.S. We also ask for prayers for a few members of our team who are feeling ill at this time. The heat takes a lot out of us but we are excited to have 2 more full work days ahead. Tonight we enjoyed going into town out for dinner to enjoy a traditional Dominican meal and we also went out for ice-cream. Continue to pray for our team as we enjoy this great experience here in the D.R. Pray that our work projects can be carried out and our team members stay healthy. Thanks! :-) -Courtney Wyse
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Baker Team/ June 19-26, 2010
Med. room needs:
-tylenol syrup
-lotrimin ointment
-tinactin ointment
-hydrocortisone ointment
-triple antibiotic ointment
-amoxicillin 400 mg/ 5ml
-amoxicillin 125 mg chewable tablets
-omnicef 250mg, 15ml solution
-childrens vitamins
-prenatal vitamins
-adult vitamins
-erythromycin tabs
-asprin 81 mg
-childrens laxative
-A+D ointment
-preparation h
-laxatives
-miralax childrens laxative colace
-gauze wrap
-coban
-ABD pads
-baby wipes
-tylenol syrup
-lotrimin ointment
-tinactin ointment
-hydrocortisone ointment
-triple antibiotic ointment
-amoxicillin 400 mg/ 5ml
-amoxicillin 125 mg chewable tablets
-omnicef 250mg, 15ml solution
-childrens vitamins
-prenatal vitamins
-adult vitamins
-erythromycin tabs
-asprin 81 mg
-childrens laxative
-A+D ointment
-preparation h
-laxatives
-miralax childrens laxative colace
-gauze wrap
-coban
-ABD pads
-baby wipes
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Purpose of This Blog
We are hoping to use this blog as a means of communication among the many different teams who serve in the Guesthouse in San Juan de la Maguana. Instructions are posted by the Guesthouse computer so teams can update this blog in order to provide important information to future teams regarding supplies and needs. This should be especially helpful for our medical teams.
-Shannon Zimmerman
Guesthouse Administrator
-Shannon Zimmerman
Guesthouse Administrator
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