Rested! It takes a few days to decompress, process, and rest up.. Now it is time to move on toward the next trip !!

We accomplished a tremendous amount of work during the time we were in La Palma. In addition to the 1208+ people seen in the scheduled clinics, several more were seen by Doc Harris and the nurses in other settings. Some were treated in Ocotepeque, some at the La Palma Christian School, some in the La Palma children's sponsor program, and some came to the hotel. Lots and lots of meds were dispensed to help people feel better and children to grow faster. The simple treatment of parasites with a small pill and and giving a 90 day supply of vitamins makes a big difference in the lives of those who do not get an adequate diet or have clean water to drink.

We did incur some unexpected expenses during the trip: we had to pay import taxes on the medicines we donated to the people, and we had to pay a van and a truck each day. If you or your friends or congregation can help with these expenses, we really would appreciate it. Although we had the cooperation of most of the government officials, some of them seemed to spend more effort making it difficult for us than they would have spent to help us get through easier. The new government is still learning how to do their jobs and are scared to take any chances at all. We are learning too, and will make adjustments for future trips.

Even more important than the physical health of the people, we had an opportunity to display love for the people by sharing with them--very much as Jesus would have done when he looked on the people and had compassion for them (Mt 14:14).

We still have some needs that you can help with: we send wheelchairs, walkers, good clothing and shoes, school supplies, and other items to La Palma for the good of the community. Please let us know of your willingness to help in this regard. We also will take Spanish Bibles and New Testaments to hand out.

I will begin posting photos of our trip soon. God bless you,
Ralph