Today we’re hearing a story from April Ether, a heath care site leader in Santiago.

Yesterday, our newest medical site in Santiago celebrated its first anniversary. In the first nine months of operation, we served over 1,200 patients! As we rejoice in all that the Lord has done with us and for the community, we’re reflecting on specific moments in which we have seen Him at work.

Our vision for the community of Quinigua since the very beginning of the medical clinic has been to see our patients achieve holistic health: to receive physical, mental, emotional and spiritual healing. We believe that if a person is spiritually healthy, right with the Lord, it can affect and influence their physical illnesses. As I think through this past year, a story of that reality comes to mind.

One example of this is a patient who came to us late last year. She presented in the clinic for neck and back pain that was limiting her movement and the activities she was able to accomplish in a normal day. After arriving in the consult room, Dr. Jhanna asked her, “Is there something happening in your life that is troubling you?” That one question stirred her heart, and she tearfully shared with us about the grief, stress, and loneliness that she had been experiencing which burdened her heart and her mind. We prayed with her, asking God to give her peace and strength and to fill all her lonely places. As we began preparing the medical treatment necessary for her case, she said, “You know what, doctor? I don’t feel pain anymore.” Praise God that he began a process of spiritual, emotional, and physical healing in her!

As we celebrate our first anniversary in Quinigua, we pray that God would continue the good work that he started in us, in the community, and in the clinic, and that he could carry it to completion to glorify his name and to restore the people who are here.

Thank you for supporting us and praying with us through this first year!