As we approach the end of our trip, today’s day of thanks took a deeper meaning into our hearts as we served in Peru. Today was our last day working in the clinic in Ventanilla. As we pushed through the wave of exhaustion that hit us this morning, we saw many children with the same diagnoses as the past couple of days, but like all patient cases, each person’s story is individualized. We worked through many patient cases that range from wheelchair fitting, orthotic modifications, and even got to experiment with plaster casting for a make-shift seat to help a child with postural control. Even though we were tired, the joy on the child’s face, and their families’ faces made us realized the impact we were making in their lives. The patients and their families witnessed us running around, trying to make multiple adjustments in equipment; however, they were very patient because they knew the end product would be worth it. It was touching to see the face of pure joy appear on a parent’s face when they saw their child fitted into an orthotic or a wheelchair; it was even more thrilling to the child’s face grow into pure excitement and happiness. One family had only two sons, but both were diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and were wheelchair bound. We were able to let them keep their old wheelchair and give two new ones. They were thankful for whatever they could get. The sense of gratitude the parents expressed to us at the end of their session reminded us how we are able to emulate Jesus’ servant’s heart just by customizing used medical equipment. Most of us began this trip thinking we would not know enough to help. However, we have witnessed many instances where families did not know or understand their child’s condition. The lack of education some parents had made us realized that we know more than we think we know. We know enough to make a difference and educate the families to better promote the health of their child. One mother came in with different inputs from multiple healthcare professionals about whether or not her daughter had cerebral palsy. She was so worried about the diagnoses; however, we were able to calm her down by letting her know that the diagnosis did not matter, what mattered was the health of her daughter.
Psalm 100: 4-5 states “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: give thanks unto him, and bless his name. For Jehovah is good; his lovingkindess endurethforever, and his faithfulness unto all generations.” This day of thanks reminded everyone on our team how grateful we are to have this opportunity to serve God and the people of Peru. We are thankful for the people that supported us in this journey and the opportunity to practice of skill of physical therapy for the glory of God. The thankful spirits of our patients and their families we have seen this past week serves a reminder of the love of God that we are able to share through our physical therapy skills.
We ended this day of thanks with a delicious Peruvian-style Thanksgiving dinner, made by Esther, our talented MMI cook, whom we are also extremely thankful for. As you end your day of thanks, take the time to realize what you are grateful for because someone somewhere in this world may not have the blessings that you have. And as we enter into the season of peace, joy, and love remind yourself of God’s love for you and use that reminder to spread His love to those around you.
Tomorrow, we will spend our last day serving at a clinic in El Callao. Please pray that our last day serving will impact many lives in Peru and bring glory to God. Happy Thanksgiving!
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