While the new Judy Medical Clinic, sponsored by generous MVPC donors, was regrettably not opened in time to save the almost 12 year old Sophia from undiagnosed meningitis, it is now testing and diagnosing Sabuli’s children for illnesses and diseases at early stages, when they are most easily treatable. This is a huge praise, MVPC! With joyful tears, Sabuli thanks you from the bottom of her heart!
With the funded microscopes, lab equipment, furnishings and other supplies, the children are being tested for myriad illnesses typical of tropical Africa.
In the past, most children were only taken to the general hospital when their symptoms were pronounced––fever included. A child suffered longer, and the underlying illness was harder to treat. It took longer to bring a child back to good health. At the general hospital, more often than not, necessary medications were out of stock––for various reasons, including the staff helping themselves to them.
Starting today, for the Children’s Center community of over 90 children, children are being brought to the clinic in groups of three for check-ups, in a preventive way––a way many of us worldwide take for granted. Now, malaria, typhoid, TB and other illnesses are detected early on, and mediations (always available here) are administered immediately.
Case in point––our dear 9-year-old Marie was lethargic, unhappy, and not eating well. Yet she didn’t have a fever, nor did she have recognizable symptoms of familiar diseases such as malaria. She continued to lose weight, to the point where some thought evil spirits were to blame. Marie carried on as well as she could. After many months and now that the new Judy Medical Clinic is open for all of Sabuli’s Children, Marie was examined. Test results showed she had TB. This could have been missed! TB can be contagious and can lead to death if not treated. As of today, Marie has been treated, is eating well and is gaining weight. Marie is even giggling again!
The Judy Medical Clinic is an exciting place to be. An Ophthalmologist is currently providing humanitarian eye care to the community. There are doctors, lab technicians and nurses, all offering their services without pay, with the hope that once the clinic becomes busy, income will increase and salaries will be realized. Sabuli’s Children will always receive free medical and health care. This was and is the goal.
Thank you Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church!