The Smiles Say It All!

A few weeks ago, we had a 33-year old patient who needed surgery. We spoke with her about the importance of having the surgery. She did not want to miss work. She was concerned that she would lose her job. It would be best if she waited until June. Dr. Tha, Piseth, and I tried to explain to her that she really couldn't wait that long. Waiting would most likely mean serious health issues - possibly death.

Of course, finances are always a concern. I spoke with the administrator at the Sihanouk Hospital Center of Hope. The administrator agreed that the hospital would discount two-thirds of the expense, if we would pay for the remaining one-third. Our two visiting nurses, Linda Loveless and Terry Nichols, had been given funds by their home congregation in Montrose, Colorado. This would cover the one-third.

After encouragement from Linda and Terri, the patient chose to accept our referral to the hospital.

Later that week, she went to the hospital, met with the surgeon, and had the surgery. She came through with flying colors! After spending four days at the hospital, the patient returned home.

Terri and Linda with Samath's mother and brother-in-law.

On the Sunday following the surgery, her mother came to the ship. She wanted to thank us for the care her daughter had received. She was smiling from ear to ear. She brought us coconuts, squash, cucumbers, and mango. She wanted to do something for us, and this is what she had to give. We told her thank you, and she told us that she wanted to thank Jesus. Later, when I asked one of the crew if I had understood her to say "thank you, Jesus," in Khmer. He said, yes. I was surprised. He explained that one of the other crew members told her that she didn't need to thank us, but thank Jesus, because he was the reason we were doing this work.

The mother told us she wanted us to come and visit. So, today, we did just that.

Samath greets us with a smile, when we arrive at her home.

We traveled back to Prek Dambang. We were able to see Samath. Seeing her smiling face was wonderful. She told us she felt much better, but was still weak. Even though she will not be back at work for a few months, she knows she made a good decision. We laughed and talked with her family. Some we had met and some we had not.

Terri and Linda with Son Samath and her family

Before we left, I asked if they would pray with us. They agreed. I thanked God for her care and recovery. I prayed for her and her family. I prayed for God to rule their home. Then, we left, hoping that maybe we had shown them the love of God. Praying that they would want to learn more.

The smiles of joy and the intense appreciation is the best pay one can receive for doing the work of the Lord!

Smiles of happiness and thanksgiving.

The ship can't afford to take care of the hospital bills of all referral patients. We help with transportation costs, meals, etc. The hospital bills often make further care prohibitive. If you would like to help us provide this additional care for patients, let me know.

Oh, by the way, we left their house with more coconuts, corn on the cob, and mangoes.