Chalene’s Smile

Karen writes:

Chalene Seregaza is a child with another one of those melt-your-heart smiles! A month ago, however, her smile would not be the first thing to grab one’s attention. Eight year old Chalene had a tumor growing in her nose (Picture 1).

On the way to Bible Class one morning, it was noticed that Chalene had an extra piece of skin protruding from her nose and was only breathing properly through her mouth. She was immediately sent to Doctor Dibona, who works at the center. He took her straight to the hospital. When Chalene had surgery to remove the tumor, a second tumor was discovered in the other nostril, and also removed.

Chalene was in the hospital for two consecutive days and then returned to the hospital every day for a week. Doctor Dibona visited her each day to assist her with medication. Chalene has now recovered and is back in school, showing off her healthy smile! (Picture 2)

Chalene and her five siblings live with their aunt and uncle. She is in level one at the PHC Welcome Center School.

Rainy Season Upon Us!

Karen Writes . . .

I thought I would share a quick pictorial example of dry season/rainy season, from the view beside our Welcome Center! Normally living in the Maryland, I find the contrast between seasons here fascinating! Dry season was so very dry, no rain, much dust, everything I would expect in a movie about the Sahara. This first picture was from the end of November; dry season was just beginning. By February, there was no green left on the hill.




The other day it struck me how green and beautiful everything has become again. Rainy season has arrived and all the plants I thought were surely dead for good, have flourished back to life!




By the looks of this second picture, we live in the tropics! This was a beautiful morning! Dozens of kids were surrounding us when we got out of the truck and humidity was making the morning misty and enchanting.

May you enjoy the seasons that come and go where you are living!