I plopped down on a chair taking a rare opportunity to sit that day. Things are picking up now that we have two plastic surgeons instead of just one. Due to complicated wounds and dressings, plastic surgery patients stay longer. We had to open up another ward so everyone would fit!

As I sat chugging water, I noticed one of our boys was looking over at me on the other side of the ward. You see, we’re old trumpeting buddies from the HOPE Center. Unlike my first patients here, I know what this guy is like when he’s feeling himself.

But he had surgery earlier that morning and I could tell he was feeling pretty crummy. I held his gaze wondering if he was really looking at me or still just dazed from anesthesia.

As if in answer to my question, he raised his eyebrows up and down at me, I did it back. He did again, and so did I. Back and forth we went with our silent game across the ward… eventually it escalated to waving hands and then arms. He gave me a sweet half smile.

It’s been really special this week to already have a little friendship started with several of our “new” patients. They exchange big grins with familiar faces and seem to feel more at ease when they arrive. I look forward to getting to know them better while they are here.

Please be praying for our patients – against pain, nausea, itching, and infection. Please be praying for me as I start another round of night shifts this weekend. Night time is especially trying for our new post operative patients as there is less distraction from discomfort than during the day. Please pray they rest well and heal quickly.

Love yall! Thank you for your prayers.