Last week, Holly & Maggie gave their mornings to help translate for American doctors providing an optometric clinic in San Cristobal de Las Casas. We never actually figured out how this diverse group came together (1 from Iowa, 2 from Chicago, 2 from Texas, 3 from Virginia and 2 from The Netherlands), but we were glad that Holly & Maggie could help them. It was really the first time that they were able to function as independent missionaries in their own right. John and I took advantage of the opportunity to get another week in language school, continuing to try to build our own skills, while Holly & Maggie were able to use theirs to really help people.
About 400 patients were served through the VOSH eye clinic. The most fun translations were those in which patients were able to receive help that really positively influenced their lives. The new glasses and/or treatment for mild ocular conditions might now allow them to read their Bibles and do their needlework. The sad translations were those in which cataract surgery would really be needed to affect any meaningful improvement of their vision. We learned that there is only one doctor in the area that does cataract surgery, and apparently, he's not very good. Patients report seeing worse after cataract removal than before. US and European doctors who have done examinations after the fact concur and now elect AGAINST referring other patients to the eye surgeon as a result.
We were grateful for the warm hospitality of Al and Sue Schreuder, longtime Reformed Church of America missionaries serving in San Cristobal. It's always great to hear stories from those who have lived and served in Chiapas for many years and to learn amazing stories of how the church has grown here. To the VOSH group, the Schreuders and the Jovel language school staff, thanks for a great week in San Cristobal.
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