Now that I am home again and the sights and smells of La Romana are beginning to dim I have had some time to really think about where we were and what we saw.
The medical teams were so impressive. One event that stays with me was the woman who needed eye glasses. Asked if she could see better near or far, she replied "only near". Some glasses were placed on her nose, she looked up and cried "claro!" She could see across the room!
Traveling out to the sugar cane fields to check the water filtration systems put into the "homes" was the most indelible experience. One of the batays had no electricity, no church, no school. So many children you could not count them all. Most wore little or no clothing. The need was so desperate. I learned that a "promoter" would be sent to them. This is actually an advocate that brings their needs to the attention of the hospital. The job pays $600/year. I see it as an absolute necessity in taking the very first step in improving their lives.
Jason, the minister from Ashland, offered up a prayer one night that has stayed with me. I would like to share it with you. It is by St. Teresa of Avila.
Christ has no body on earth but yours.
Yours are the only hands through which he can do his work.
Yours are the only feet by which he can go about the world.
Yours are the only eyes through which his compassion can shine forth upon a troubled world.
Christ has no body on earth but yours.
Blessings to all at ACC that helped to make this mission trip possible.
Deanna
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