I just got back from 4 days at Bongolo Hospital. It has an insane history dating back to 1930 something and has grown a lot since then. Through those years they have had to overcome some crazy circumstances. For example, they tried to get a bridge to cross over the river when they founded the place. People would come for help, travel for days, only to end up on the other side of the river where they couldn't get help. Sometime traveling 4-6 days just to die 100 yds from the hospital. The strange thing about it, is that the bridge wasn't allowed to be put in until around the 90's! I can't imagine how many people got to that side of the river, only to find out that they missed the fairy (which was insane-o dangerous anyway) and have to WAIT for an emergency situation to be dealt with the next morning. But, since the bridge has been put in, the hospital has grown like crazy. In most African countries, you would have to travel to the capital city to pay and outrageous price for whatever you need done. But in Gabon, you have to go to the middle of no where, practically in the heart of the jungle, 12 hours away from the capital city to pay 1/16 of the price!! How great is that!?!? (Please feel free to compare and contrast haha)
Although this is all crazy awesome stuff. There are still needs. There always will be. But, prayer is the key to fulfilling needs. Because unless it is God's will then it is not going to happen no matter what we do. Continuously looking to God to fill the need instead of us "solving the problem." If he does it, it's so much easier and done 100% awesome. He Is Faithful.
So I leave you with one last story...
One of the nurses there, took us on a tour. When we went into the maternity section she told us the procedures they have to go through. She told us when a mother has a premature child, as soon as it comes out, that nurse has to RUN about 50 yds outside to another building where the incubators are. Because of certain things, the hospital was not able to put the incubators in the same section as where the babies were being born. Can you imagine if this was how it was done in America?
Hey Nathan:
ReplyDeleteIt was really good to read your blog and know how God is touching your heart, even though you have been there before. You guys are amazing to give up your summer to bless people who are a world away, but all potential brothers & sisters in Christ. We leave a week from today for Burkina and I feel so blessed to finally at 60 get to experience what you at 19 have seen and can invest your life in. Go for it! Blessings, Dot
I'm SO glad you guys got to visit Bongolo - and a little jealous....it was the one thing I regret not being able to do last year! What a great opportunity for you! I imagine the things you saw while you were there will not soon be forgotten. We continue to pray for you guys - you make us proud!
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