For I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13

This was the theme verse for this past Saturday’s second annual pediatric burn survivor event. Forty kids attended this year. Along with their parents and staff, there were nearly 100 participants. This event is a way to continue to care for these kids emotionally, spiritually, and physicially while some of them remain on a healing journey long after they are discharged from the hospital. And, it is a way for them to build connections with other kids on a similiar journey, facing similar challenges.

Our prayer this year was the same as last, that these kids and their parents would leave knowing that they are loved by their community and by Jesus. One mother who attended with her child told us afterwards, "The best thing about this event is to recognize that some of these kids are going to have permanent injuries, which can affect them socially, and to show them that there is someone out there who cares."

These children carry trauma with them related to their burn injuries and the pain they endured during their hospital stay. We pray now that they'll carry this love with them too.

Thank you for being in prayer with us about this event.

We’ve been so encouraged lately with so many answered prayers:

• The team from University of South Alabama came in February. Everyone in their group was a blessing to the patients, hospital staff, and our family. From the specialists and residents in the group, to the medical students, and even the younger highschool students who came with their parents. God used each of them in unique ways according to their individual gifts and talents. That is always so fun to witness. We’re thankful for their visit.

• Junior, the little boy we’ve asked for prayer for previously, underwent a skin graft while the team was here. He has since recovered from the surgery, and his wound healing has progressed enough that he was able to be discharged this week. We know that he, and his cousin caring for him, will face challenges as they adjust to life outside of the hospital. We remain in prayer for them.

• We coordinated the completion of a mural in the pediatric ward of the surgical building. It has brightened the room and made it more of a friendly space for children.

Upcoming:

• April is a month of commemoration here in Rwanda as the country takes time to remember the genocide of 1994. We pray this will be a time of healing for the country, especially genocide survivors.

• We are planning to complete training with staff in April including basic life support for new medical and nursing staff, as well as lay-person CPR for new ancillary staff.

• We are continuing preparations for a community burn outreach campaign in May. Please be in prayer with us that all preparations go well so the campaign is successful.

Family Updates:

• Noella and Matayo are looking forward spring break. They will be off from school for a few weeks in April.

• Luka is happy and healthy at home. Speaking more words everyday and spending lots of time outside.

Thank you for you prayers and support! We’re so thankful to still have the opportunity be part of God’s work in Kibogora.

Rachel & Emmanuel