This year’s camp felt like we were starting over in some ways. This was the first camp that was held at the clinic site, using tents outside for waiting areas, registration, and nursing stations. It took some time to set up new systems and new traffic flow patterns. Having a much smaller team than usual, only 10 people, actually helped to keep the work on track and manageable. We were not able to do programs in the local schools, however, due to the small numbers. While both the team and the students mourned the lost opportunity, we knew it was in God’s hands, as the changes were already so much to manage and the school was no longer in walking distance (for us).
For two days, we had the privilege of hosting We’re All God’s Children, another nonprofit from the Lancaster area, who specializes in vision clinics that provide eye glasses. They had joined us two years ago, and it was great to have them return! Many people received eye glasses, and reading glasses were a big need for many. Those who received glasses were so grateful, and we pray for additional opportunities to provide vision clinics in the future.
The dental team was set up in a new way this year, too. Because our lead dentist suffered an injury some months prior to the trip and was limited in her abilities, two Kenyan dental professionals came to work with us. They spear-headed the extraction efforts while our dentist, Michele, was able to focus on molding pre-formed dentures for patients. Together, the group made a very big impact, with over 300 patients being treated for dental and no lines remaining!
By the time the camp was finished, we had treated about 1,400 patients, our second highest number ever. Each morning, it seemed that the number of people waiting was more than the day before, but God gave sufficient strength to get through each day. We rejoiced at all that was done! To crown the experience, some of the Kenyan staff and board were able to join us on the two day safari that the team takes at the end of the trip to decompress and prepare to return to live “as usual.” It was such fun to have time with our colleagues and now close friends aside from work and before we all parted ways.
This year, God truly made all things new. Thank you for your continued prayers and support!
