Day 3

Today was so wonderful that I find it hard to believe that there will be another day on the trip to top it.  Today we went to the Children’s Home.  It is an orphanage of 60 children that have either been abandoned, abused, or neglected, and have somehow made their way to the home.  We left this morning, full of French toast, and embarked on a 45 minute bus drive to San Buenaventura. I was in the van with about 10 other people and had the opportunity to sit by a guy named Jorge who was going to be a translator for the team.  He is about to begin his fourth year in medical school – so we had a very interesting conversation about the similarities and differences of our home countries.

When we arrived I was amazed by the facilities!  What a blessing the LAMB institute has with the home they have been able to provide to so many deserving children!  We set up clinic in their beautiful school.  All 60 children were triaged and quickly lined the halls waiting to be seen by the doctors.  We took pictures, made airplanes, and distributed random gifts to entertain – it was amazing!  The children were so appreciative, patient, and full of joy!  It was such a reminder of God’s love! 

Mandie and I had way too much fun with the children.  We both held babies for probably an hour (for which I am sure we will be sore in the morning) and just had a blast entertaining the children.  Mandie was able to reconnect with several of her children that she took care of while she lived in Honduras, and I loved meeting each and every one of them.  I now have a face to all of her stories. J

As for nursing -  I had two great opportunities today. First was an IM injection.  Let me just begin by saying that I have never in my life given an IM injection with a needle this length or this size.  It was huge.  Haha – but the lady was a trooper which made the 3 inch 14 gauge needle that I stuck her with a much more enjoyable event.  For all of those in my nursing school class – let me just say…I recapped a needle, gave an injection without gloves, and improperly disposed of the syringe…oops J

Also, I had the opportunity to dress a pediatric burn.  It was wonderful!

After hours of clinic and a wonderful PB&J, we were able to go down the trail into their “village” where all of the cottages are located.  I was able to see where they live and just enjoy the company of so many wonderful kids.  I was in Heaven!  It is a good thing that we are not going back there for a week because I would probably be bringing back about 10 children home to Charleston. 

One child in particular seemed to cling to me.  He told me he was 10, but I am pretty sure he was about 8.  We flipped, twirled, danced, and played follow the leader.  He was absolutely precious.  And, because I have picked up enough Spanish to help me carry on a basic conversation, it was much easier today to interact with the children. 

After a tour of the facility and the breathtaking new chapel, we left for the day.  We returned to a Honduran meal of enchiladas and sugar cookies, and ended with the nightly assembly line of sandwiches and pharmacy refill.

Now that Mandie just jumped out of the shower, I am going to take my turn…

We are truly exhausted but because of the excitement of the day and the absolute love that radiates from the people, it is a joy to be awake and in their presence.

This little guy cuddled with us all afternoon...

A sweet little one sitting in line, holding her medical file...

Courtney's burn patient...