I am writing to request your prayers for one of our families that is facing a big transition. You might recall that last month we faced a medical emergency with Jan from Guastatoya. This frail little seven year old has severe Cerebral Palsy and suffers from malnutrition. He had to be hospitalized for six days and has required a lot of care since his release. His mother, Claudia, is unable to work due to the extensive care that he requires, so she takes in laundry from neighbors to maintain a small income. We have been praying about ways that we could assist this family and make sure Jan gets the medical care he needs.
You might also remember that a few months ago we hired the mother of another one of the children with whom we work to do some housecleaning for us and to provide help with the group home once it opens. As a result, Katerin’s mom has been working with us one day a week and also cleaning for some of our friends for a second day. Two weeks ago she came to our home to tell us,through tears, that she had accepted a full-time job in Guatemala City and could no longer work for us. We rejoice with her in knowing that she will be better able to provide for her family.
At the same time, our older daughters have been moving away to pursue ministry. Carissa left for Uganda in January. Teisha left for school in the States two days ago. Krishauna will be leaving to work in Casa Bernabe in late May. So, one by one, Wanda’s helpers are leaving as we head into team season and the opening of our group home. She needs help.
As a result, we decided it was time for us to hire a full-time housekeeper and nanny and get her trained and prepared before we receive our group home license. With that in mind, we made the decision to hire Jan’s mom, Claudia, full time. We have secured a small house here in San Antonio Aguas Calientes for her and her four children and enrolled her three daughters in a local school. On Monday we will be driving three hours north to her town with a moving truck and moving them to back to our community.
This work arrangement will enable Claudia to bring Jan with her to work while her other children go to school about 1/4 mile up the street. In addition, our region has a much cooler and drier climate than Guastatoya which should help Jan’s respiratory problems. Finally, he will be close to us and the medical professionals with which we work when he needs intervention. This should be an excellent arrangement for everyone, including my wife who desperately needs the help.
Please pray for Claudia and her family as they make this move. This will be a huge transition for them all as the culture and traditions of this region are very different from Guastatoya. Especially pray for her three daughters as the leave behind their town, friends and school and have to start over again. Finally, continue to pray for Jan’s health as he continues to struggle.
Thanks! Blessings from San Antonio Aguas Calientes!
Daryl
