The Lord takes delight in his people

Just back from an amazing day at the leprosy village! We set off in convoy this morning - the ambulance, the car we travel in and the old work-horse of a jeep with hot food for lunch for 125 people on board. Julie and I had prayed specifically that the railway crossing gates would raise as we drove up to them (these gates are just by the village and last two times we had to wait between 20 and 25 minutes before they let us through).

The gates raise as we drive towards them!

On arrival in Vetapalam we were greeted with the sight of the whole village gathered in their groups, each with their group leader in a white sari, soaking their feet and chatting animatedly. There was a terrific buzz going on, faces were shining and we were very touched by the greeting we had - flower garlands and flower petals scattered on our heads - it was wonderful.

We had a time of singing and we all spoke to the people. Julie encouraged them to continue with the group soaking and oiling of feet and she thanked them all for their participation. Certificates were presented to each group leader and small gift given in recognition of the hard work and effort they had put in.

The Magnificent Seven!

The doctor set up his consulting table under the awning and was assisted by Kanna, a nursing graduate who will be working full-time with the mobile clinic and assisting the doctor, All the nasty ulcers and infected wounds were cleaned and dressed. Julie and I were thrilled to see the feet of one man who had two horrible infected sores on his feet 9 days ago - when he showed us them today the sores had dried up and shrunk significantly - due to the soaking and oiling regime. He was delighted!

The doctor and the nurse / medical assistant

The orthotist shoemaker had brought ten pairs of custom made shoes that he has made since last week. So after those people had their feet dressed and bandaged the shoe-maker fitted them with their new shoes.

Each pair is made-to-measure

There was much excitement as people received their own brand new, made-to-measure shoes.

After all this the team set up trestle tables under the awning and lunch was served to the whole community. It has been a fantastic day.