HVO Story of the month: June 2007

By Florence Judd

Erika was about two-years-old when she arrived at our hospital (although we never did find out her exact age). Her mother died shortly after her birth, something not unusual here. Erika’s siblings were her main care-givers as the father worked long hours. One older sister had left home in her pre-teen years and went to live with an aunt in Quito. This sister maintained links with the family and happened to be visiting when Erika became sick. It was she who brought Erika to Vozandes-Shell, a five-hour bus journey, but later it was the father who left his work to come and care for her.

Erika was very sick when she first came to us. She had a deflated lung and needed a chest tube, a procedure that was repeated three more times during the month she was a patient with us. Eventually she recovered enough to leave, but not to go to her distant home to be cared for by her siblings. It was arranged that she stay at the children’s home in Shell for about eight months until she reached an age where she could be managed at home. She is now in a lovely Christian atmosphere and well cared for.

A missionary couple and the charity fund have covered Erika’s hospital expenses thus far and the father said he will try to contribute some. It is difficult for him when he has about five other children at home and no wife to help.

As a patient Erika was the easiest child to care for. She must have been uncomfortable with the chest tubes, but was always smiling and ate all her food. She was a bit of a novelty as she would blow kisses to the nurses! Thank God for preserving this precious little life, and pray that may she grow up to know and love Him.