Mercy was brought to Amecet at the end of January (see blog of Jan. 29) She only weighed 1.7 kg and she was already 4 weeks old. She started to grow and did very well, we tested her and she was HIV-, (her mother had been HIV+) so we were very happy with her. She gained and started to smile. In the meantime we were in discussion with her family. The husband of her mother has been years away in the army. It is very normal that the younger brother than takes over the wife, so we talked with him and he admitted that he was the father of Mercy. After 2 months she was ready to go back home, the father came and he told us that his sisters would help him to care for Mercy. We gave some clothes, a mosquito net and money for the milk. He left and he promised to come to our "Come back day". Mercy's weight was now 3.9 kg!! Two days later, (yesterday), four people walked into our compound with...... Mercy!! The "father" had dumped Mercy at his sisters and had disappeared. He didn't give the net, the clothes or the milk money, he just left, saying that he is not the father and doesn't want to be bothered! Simon had a long talk with them and the conclusion was that Mercy would stay for now, in Amecet. The family would have a clan meeting to discuss the situation. There is a sister of the late mother who would like to take Mercy, but than for life, not just for a year or so. It is sad that this little child is in the middle of this. On the picture you see her hold by Sarah. At least she is safe now!
We have a good meal, this Easter weekend! This is a big turkey, carried by Calvin, our gardener. The family of Anna, the little baby who died last week, brought us this turkey as an appreciation for the care we gave to Anna. We will eat it this weekend, to celebrate LIFE!!
On Good Friday we shared together with all the staff who was present Holy Communion and we thought back about what Christ has done for us!
Today we will celebrate the life that we have been given, the relationship we now may have with our Father, the giver of LIFE!
We wish you all a Happy Easter!
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