Uganda, Africa
March 2009

In March of 2009, Sherill made another trip to Uganda, Africa. Here is a word about her trip.

Again, another amazing trip! I savor the memory of walking down a dirt road towards my guest house at Kaizii Hospital. It is 3:00 am and I am in the heart of Uganda, Africa. I have just spent about 20 hours in labor and delivery. I am listening to the quiet and I am guided only by the brightness of the moon. I am physically and emotionally exhausted. I remember thinking to myself, "this is amazing, I am in Africa catching babies; thank you Lord for giving me my dream!!"

Birth in Uganda is difficult in the best of circumstances. The lack of equipment and medications make it even more difficult. Many mothers come to the hospital with a small case containing only a black plastic bag (to be used on the table for labor and delivery, then folded up and thrown away with all the "fluids" from birth) and a piece of cloth that is used for everything from a sheet to lay on, to a covering, to a wrap for the new baby. They may have a clean one for the baby if they can afford it. They have no bulb syringes to suction babies, not enough lidocaine to numb them for suturing, old instruments, (the scissors would not even cut the suture material when I did a repair!) At times we did not even have water to wash our hands.

I caught 10 babies, had one 18 week old spontaneous abortion, a 22 week old baby that only lived 1 hour. I assisted at 2 breach births, 3 cesarean sections. Sutured 2 times, and did many prenatal, postpartum and newborn exams. I got more midwifery experience than I could have gotten in a year here. I can't wait to return, Lord willing in October 2009.

I was told that a woman goes to the hospital not thinking she will be bringing a baby home, but it is happy if she does. The needs are great in so many ways.

THANK YOU to all of you who were able to help with this trip. I was able to take with me instruments, medical supplies, baby blankets and baby supplies. They were very much appreciated.

In His love and in His service,
Sherill

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