The fourth day of clinic brought another day of moments of joy and gifts. One of the Tanzanian nurses working alongside our team began the day by giving those working together to obtain health histories fresh avocados to enjoy. Her thoughtfulness and efforts are greatly appreciated. Later in the morning a woman seen at the clinic earlier in the week returned and gifted Krista with ears of corn as a symbol of thanksgiving. The woman walked far with the heavy load just to share her gratitude.

The relationships developing between the Tanzanian and American teams are another reason for joy. We are sharing our cultures with each other, learning Swahili and laughing together. The children really enjoy interacting with members of the American team at the vital sign area. Play is a universal language that allows relationships to build without being able to directly speak. It is great to watch the enjoyment from the children and team members and to hear about the creativity in the play.

Many people came to the clinic again today. The tent of waiting people seemed to always be full. Amazingly, the people created a line system to stay in order for registration and treatment. Historically, lines are difficult to create and maintain in Africa. Crowding is often the normal. Therefore, the line that formed, seemingly without instruction, is very impressive.

Today we provided care and treatment for 370 people. The day flowed a bit smoother as we had the full team working all day. The day prior, one of the doctors had to leave for a large portion of the day to attend to a family emergency. The clinic set up was the same, and each team member maintained their same role in clinic. We saw similar diagnoses as the beginning of the week with infections, fungal infections, high blood pressure, diabetes and joint pain (presumably some arthritis). Each patient does receive an oral medication to treat for any worms they may have.

The Muslim population is prevalent in Tanzania, and currently they are celebrating Ramadan, which means fasting during the day. This is contributing to the worsening of some medical conditions as the patients are more prone to being dehydrated, light headed and dizzy. One boy came through today who was quite sick with a gastrointestinal illness. He stayed with us for the afternoon to receive rehydration and medications. The woman who has been coming all week for IV antibiotics for a severe infection was taken to the hospital today for further treatment and ongoing support.

Krista shared a positive story from evangelism and individual prayer with patients today. A young family came through that has come upon terrible economic conditions for their family. This has led to them making very tough choices for how to earn funds for their family. Through the clinic, the family is now in contact with the local church. The family plans to attend church this coming Sunday, where there will be a special offering to support the family. Hopefully the family will stay connected with the church for support and continued growth of their faith.

Tomorrow is already the final day of the clinic. We look forward to another opportunity to work together to help and serve this Tanzanian community.

“Hesed” is a Hebrew word that means “kindness,” “mercy,” “loyalty,” “loving-kindness” or “steadfastness.” It’s the way God intends us to live together—a “love your neighbor as yourself,” active, selfless, sacrificial, caring-for-one-another brand of living contradictory to our fallen natures. The “Heseders” are continually looking to work together to share some small measure of God’s extraordinary love. Won’t you join us?