The Philippines: A New Chapter

Life in the Philippines

2011-06-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

A short video I put together of my life in the Philippines...
Dedicated: To the Creator of life, Who led me to this place. To my family and friends who through their prayers and support made this experience possible. To my midwife sisters, for making the most challenging experience (yet ;)) of my life one of the most beautiful.
For: Those who care to share in the memory of this journey. And to those interested in NISM- as I recall the days when I searched high and low for any bits and pieces of information I could get on this program! :)
Enjoy

Another Chapter

2010-09-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

It's my first time to blog as an official CPM (Certified Professional Midwife), and boy does is sure feel good! :)
I've wondered whether or not I should continue to blog. After all, it's called "The Philippines: A New Chapter" and that chapter has closed. Yet in many ways I feel as though the past several months are still very much connected to that phase of my life. So I'll continue to write, dedicating this next part to not only those who can relate with the experiences that reverse culture shock/adjustments may bring, but also to anyone who cares to share in this part of my journey...If for anything, I write this for my own record, seeing as I fail at keeping a journal! :)
If hadn't believed in reverse culture shock before, I certainly do now. And for those who claim it is "stranger" than culture shock, I now understand what they are talking about; simply because it is strange!

When I first came home, I was thrilled to be reunited with family and friends; experiencing their love and affection made me wonder how I had ever left! :) And than things started settling down, and I realized I needed to "get back into the swing of life here." And that's when the feeling of loneliness arrived. I was HOME- a place where I should easily fit back into, but I didn't really feel like I did so well. It wasn't just that so much had changed here in the span of two years, but I had changed as well. I know change, if it's for the better, is a healthy part of life, but for me it is also one of the most difficult parts.

I remember the first time I was alone at the Windmill, I had a good cry. It was probably the first time I had been left alone in past two years! I couldn't explain why I was crying, but if sure felt good! :)

I didn't wait long before I threw myself back into work and Church activities. My fellow midwife friends had all advised me to take a long enough break before starting work, but I figured it would help me find my place here again. To a certain degree it did, however, I really should have listened to them! ;) I reckon you live and learn...

To be honest with you, the transition was smoother than I had expected. It didn't take too long before this place felt like home again- except in a new way. It's hard when people you love move on, but God has given so much grace, and has been so patient with me as I once again learn to accept another chapter. I often tend to hang onto the past, yet He calls us to go forward- pressing towards the mark of the high calling. So I'll continue to go on with joy, fully trusting the One who is holding my hand...

The closing of a Chapter

2010-07-24T03:47:00.000-07:00

July 24:
The bags are packed, the closet is empty, and the desk is cleared off. Was that two years? Yes, even though time flies, its been two full years of experiences and lessons I could never completely express in words. How I will miss this place...
As I walk around the city, I realize how familiarized I've become with this place which was once so strange and overwhelming. The crazy traffic no longer fazes me, nor do I wonder what is around the next corner. In many ways the Filipino culture has become a normal way of life.
Yesterday I worked my last shift- it was a sad day. It's amazing how much a place can change with experience and time. I remember in the beginning feeling very overwhelmed and quite incapable of ever becoming a confident midwife. Being someone who didn't even know how to take a blood pressure, I had a long way to go. But God was so faithful and has brought me so far. I'm excited to continue this process of learning... I love being a midwife!

But this place has taught me so much more than just becoming a midwife. It has changed my outlook on life, and has touched my heart in ways I could have never imagined. I know I'll never be the same again, and I only hope and pray that God will never let me forget what He has taught me in this chapter of life.
I think one of the hardest parts of life is saying goodbye. I felt this reality once again as I hugged so many people goodbye, unsure of whether I will ever see them again on this side of heaven. Then there were my midwife sisters; girls who have been there with me through many laughter and tears. I will miss them 'somethin fierce!' :) I was so privileged and blessed to be apart of this class. I have a feeling I'll see them all again at some point or another, but I know leaving means we will lose something special we had- something I can only give to God seeing His plans are perfect.
I know leaving also means I will be back home to my family and friends who I love beyond words. So with very mixed emotions I come to the close of this chapter. It has been an amazing journey, an experience I will always cherish. And now, who knows what the next chapter will hold... but that's the exiting part of life! Especially when we can trust the Author and Finisher of our faith!

To God be the glory

Primary Health Care Outreaches with Cathy

2010-07-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if I wrote earlier in this blog about the primary health classes and outreaches we've been doing for the past month or so. Cathy, who is a missionary PA and has her masters in Primary Health, has been our amazing teacher and instructor! We've been having two classes a week, and then on Saturdays we go out and do medical outreaches to put into practice what we've learned. We would contact churches in the extremely poor areas of town, and would then set up a clinic there for anyone needing medical attention or for anyone with complaints or concerns. As students, we would get the patients history, do a physical examination and attempt to diagnosis the problem. Cathy would then evaluate our assessment. For certain complications we had a pharmacy set up that we could dispense medication for treatment. Otherwise we would either talk to them about lifestyle changes or inform them that their problem was beyond our scope of care. It was definitely a good challenging and often quite overwhelming- but we learned so much! At one clinic we saw around 200 patients!
Here are a few of the pictures from some of the outreaches....

On our first outreach, one of the first patients happened to be a little boy that I had delivered last year! What a a surprise!!! :)
Lots and lots of people! :)
The amazing Cathy!! :)
Caring for a baby with Impetigo
Our little pharmacy we took turns running :) We gave away free meds after the person was prayed for by Filipino Christians from the church there
Subjective-Objective-Assessment-Plan :) :)
The most important/essential part of the outreaches

Celebration!!!!!!!

2010-07-17T02:16:00.000-07:00

YEEHAW!!!! We wrote the final exam here, and all passed!!! Thank you Jesus!!!!! We have to write the board exam in the States yet, and then we'll be completely finished with our CPM's!!!! :) :) :)
So now we have one week left here to finish up our shifts, pack up our life here, and say the dreaded goodbyes!! I delivered a baby boy this morning, and wondered if he may be my last delivery for awhile... Sad thought actually!
But I'm MORE than excited about coming home!!!
Just thought I'd quickly give you the latest and greatest update! :)
You haven't heard the last from me yet on this blog. There are still a few more pages left to write.

THANK YOU all for your prayers!!!!

Till next time
SH

Crunch time!!

2010-07-08T05:26:00.000-07:00

I remember last year watching the senior students preparing for their final exam and thinking "I'm SO glad it's not me!" And now, ready or not it's my turn! This past week I feel like pretty much every spare moment has gone into studying, and the more I study the more I figure out I don't know! :) Yesterday I had rare full day off, so Kinshasa and I took off to the beach with some text books and study material. I'm sure we were an unusual sight, sitting on the sand with our text books and notes, but since our time is limited we figured we'd kill two birds with one stone. It was actually an ideal location to study, with the soft breeze and relaxing atmosphere. Today I have yet to study as I had clinic, two classes and cooking duty. I had a rather painful and embarrassing accident at the market today. Being on a mission and in a hurry, I didn't pay close enough attention to where I was walking, and my one leg slipped- or more like scraped- into a drainage hole right up to my knee. At first I was completely discussed as I felt "stuff" enclose around my foot. I looked up, and noticed the people around me trying to look away- the Filipino way of "hiding my shame." But at the particular moment, I didn't care too much about shame, so I hobbled over to a vegetable stand to ask for some water. Then I started realizing how painful and swollen my leg was getting... Now I have a huge, swollen bruise, reminding me to at least spend enough time to look where I'm going! And I'm sure I gave a few people at the market a good laugh, seeing a white girl fall into a drain! :)
Well, this was my study break, so back to the books! Please pray that God would give me wisdom to know what to study, how to study, and the ability to retain it all. And that I won't hyperventilate! :) :) :) Okay, okay, I'm procrastinating! Off I go...

Taiwan

2010-06-29T21:49:00.000-07:00

"Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Taipei. Thank you for flying with Philippine Airline, I hope you enjoy your stay." After a hop, skip, and jump I had arrived. As I headed out the plane and through the airport, an older woman noticed me (being one of the only other white people off our flight) and came over to ask where I was going. I soon discovered she was from Holland, and so we switched over our conversation into dutch- something which I didn't expect to use in Taiwan! I didn't talk to her for too long before Adelle came, and we exchanged our first hug in two years! :)
She gave instructions to the taxi driver which I didn't understand- it was all Chinese to me- and off we went. I kept commenting on how clean and nice everything was, and Adelle had to laugh at me. It wouldn't be what people from back home would note, however, coming from the Philippines...
We had a great weekend together, zipping around the city on her scooter. I was there from Saturday till Tuesday, and we got a lot packed into that time. Adelle took me out of the city to a high point were we could see the mountains and water- it was beautiful. I especially enjoyed the weather. I was good to step out of this humidity box and enjoy the fresh, cool air.
We ate out pretty much the whole time, as it is very inexpensive and the options are endless. I almost made the mistake of tipping the cook. Adelle saved me and quickly explained that tipping anyone was inappropriate seeing it was money they had not worked for... Oh the joys of learning different cultures! :) I immediately wanted to learn the Chinese word for thank you, "Shay shay." I figured if I at least knew that one I would be safe. :) Adelle also took me to see a Buddhist temple (AMAZING work of art!); a tourist place where they sell jewelery and pottery; and downtown Taipei. On the Sunday morning I had the privilege of meeting with her church family, many of which were ironically Filipino. On Monday I was able to watch her teach both of her classes, and meet her adorable students. In order to practice their English, Adelle got each of her kindergarten kids to say something nice to me. "SaRAH--you--are--eCELlent!" :)It doesn't surprise me how attached Adelle is with them- they are so precious! I asked one little girl how she was doing, and without cracking a smile she said, "I--am--happy!" :) :) I was so glad to see that key part of Adelle's life in Taiwan.
Well, like everything in life, my trip to Taiwan came to an end. Before I knew it, we were hugging goodbye at the airport. Thank you Jesus, that one day His children will never have to say goodbye again. As our plane touched down in Davao, my mind raced with everything I need to finish up here, the biggest being the final exam. I pray to God that I will finish well. He's been with me all along and has brought me this far, I know He will remain faithful till the end.

Just another little tidbit of my life. :)
"Till next Time"
SH

A day in the life of Sarah Heikoop :)

2010-06-17T08:40:00.001-07:00

It's almost midnight and I probably should go to bed. But instead I sign onto my blog. I usually find it the easiest to write down my thoughts at this time of the day, but I'm not sure about tonight- my brain is almost shutting down. It's been another long day... Here's a little of what a day in my life here can look like:

This morning I had prenatals, where I saw around thirteen patients. We typically see between 40-100 women on a prenatal morning with 5-6 midwives on the shift. I enjoy prenatals, but they can be mentally draining due to the high volume of patients that come through. You want to be quick but thorough. If you make a mistake or miss something on the evaluation or chart, it could be serious... you are dealing with a life- two for that matter! Also being sensitive to the needs and cares of each woman is so important, and really the main reason we are here. Prenatals is also a time where you see again and again how financially deprived most of the women. This morning I had a woman who didn't get her 60 cent lab because she couldn't afford it. I could see she was telling me the truth...her reality.
After prenatals I had just enough time to come home to have lunch and check my e-mails before running back to the clinic to write a review test. We then usually go over it to discuss each answer, which usually leads to interesting debates! :)
After the test I had ten minutes to run home to grab my water bottle and notebook before heading to class.
We then have a 2 1/2 hour Primary Health Teaching class, taught by Cathy- a missionary PA from the States who has an amazing gift for teaching. She has spent many years on the mission field, the last few being in Sudan. She volunteered to put a class together to teach us about general primary health that can be used out on the mission field. We have two classes a week, and then starting this Saturday, we will be going out into different areas of the city to put into practise what we've learned. So far the classes have been incredible!!
After supper I managed to write another book report: Twenty-four down, one more to go! YEA! :)
And then there is of course the fast approaching exams to look forward to! :) It's definitely a challenge to focus on studying with so many exciting things going on, as well as attempting to wrap things up here... MY OH MY!!

Well, I think I'll call it a day! :)

God be with you all...
"Till next time!"
SH

Pictures of My last Trip in the Bukid

2010-06-06T02:56:00.000-07:00

-Please Click on Picture to Open Album-

2010-06-04T05:12:00.000-07:00

The little pick-up truck sped down the road through banana fields and palm tree jungles, carrying us further and further away from the city. Julie (my class-mate) and I sat in the back of the truck, lavishly inhaling the fresh country air and admiring the beauty around us. We were heading on our way to a little village in the mountains for nine days to lead a Daily Vacation Bible School. My heart beat with excitement and anticipation for the adventure ahead of us. Somehow I knew it was going to be a challenging yet amazing week, as these trips in the bukid (mountains) usually were. At one point during the ride, we were stopped at an intersection and an old semi-truck came barreling up behind us to a VERY screeching stop just a few inches from our truck. My heart did a skydive into my stomach from the close call of becoming part of his bumper...Praise God no such thing happened!
Once we arrived in a town near the base of the mountains, we met up with the rest of our team- there were nine of us in total. Besides Julie and myself, there were seven others who had all grown up in nearby bukid villages. Once introductions had been made, and correct pronunciation of names discovered, we packed up our belonging onto three motorbikes and headed up through the mountains. About an hour later we reached our destination, a little village on the peak of the mountain. The little hut we stayed in belonged to Orie, the former mayor's wife. Her husband had been stabbed and shot to death during a tribal war a few years ago, after which she completed his term. She is an incredible Christian women, whose face bares the lines of suffering yet shines with the joy of the Lord. We couldn't talk much together as she didn't know any English, yet she taught me so much through her example.
Sunday morning was a grand start to a beautiful week. We walked over to the thatched roof church which was overflowing with villagers who were dancing and praising God. It was one of the most beautiful, pure, simplistic form of worship to God I had ever witnessed. They had nothing, yet they joyfully gave Him everything. At the front was a table decked with small bags of rice and vegetables they were offering to the Lord. I watched in aw as they joyfully threw their pesos into a little basket. It reminded me of the story of the widow giving her only mite. I couldn't understand what was going on, as everything was in Manobo, yet the presence of the Lord was inevitable.

The DVBS was an incredible experience for me; so unlike any I had experienced back home. Each morning the kids (a daily average of 120) would gather themselves together and eagerly wait for us to arrive. The age range was suppose to be from 7-15y.o, however, many brought their younger siblings. My favorite part of the program was watching the children sing. You never had to coax them, as they would always sang their little hearts out! After the singing they split into two age groups for a Bible lesson, after which they would color a picture. Although most times there were more children than crayons, they never pulled a fuss. I remember one little boy happily coloring away his whole picture with a white crayon… In many ways, these children touched my heart and opened my eyes.

Each afternoon I would tell them a missionary story with the help of a translator. The story was geared towards American Children, describing the life of a poor boy in a small village who was trapped in constant fear of the evil spirits. For the children I was teaching, this was reality.

After the story we would go to the basket ball court (always the center of the village) to play games, with the rest of the village watching close by. It was very entertaining to teach them new games with the language barrier. The one game, British bulldog, took over ½ hour to explain. At one try, instead of simply running across the basketball court, the children kept running and running… I thought they were going to run clear off the mountain!

In the evenings, our group would get together for devotions, prayer, and daily evaluation. These were special times of the week- times when I felt God’s presence in a new way.

This trip also taught me much on the simplicity of life, and the work many people go through just to meet their daily survival needs. With no electricity or running water, we would hike down a steep little path to get to the stream for water. We would bathe and wash our clothes there, and then water would be hauled up to the village for all other purposes. After 6pm, kerosene lamps would be lit to break the darkness of the night. I love this type of simplistic lifestyle- yet I’m sure it too can lose its novelty. We take for granted the fact that we can simply turn on the faucet and liberally utilize the flow of water at your own dispense. However, I found that one of the biggest advantages to this rustic lifestyle is the quantity and quality of time available amongst families and villagers. Its something that technology and our demanding lifestyles have sadly deprived us of…

You know your getting use to a certain way of life when you walk into the hut to discover a turkey walking around, and it takes a few minutes to register that he shouldn't be inside. :) When I was there, I also took part in slaughtering and preparing a chicken!!! Much to my delight, I got over any apprehensions I had, and actually enjoyed it. Less than 2 hours later, I was enjoying it with the rest of my supper- which of course included rice! =)

There is so much more I could write about of my adventure in the mountains. My purpose for this trip was to assist in teaching the children, yet in many ways I felt like I was the one being taught. Because of the language barrier, these lessons never came in words. Instead the Lord again used children as an example, and it was as if He whispered to me, "Look, observe, and learn...unless you become like one of these little children..."

2010-05-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

heading out bright and early on a 9-day outreach into the beautiful moutains. Going to enjoy the fresh country air and their simplistic "wireless" lifestyle! :) Staying in a little village to help out with a VBS, offer some medical care, and share with them life's greatest Gift! Please pray that God`s Spirit would move in the hearts of the villagers we will meet and spend these next nine days with...nothing is more powerful than prayer!!

Grad Pictures

2010-05-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

Excited? You bet! :) All the pictures above were taken by Tim Stewart
Brie and I with some of our lovely Filipino Supervisors
Ate Elsa and I... :) Man, I love that lady!

Our Class with the directors

Some of the Filipino midwives doing a beautiful dance for us! :)

Class of 2011 did a skit and sang a song for us... so special

Group hug with the directors! :)

Our class with the Filipino midwives and supervisors

Ate Elai...love her to bits! :) amazing midwife!

Class of 2010 and 2011

At last! :) :) (certificates postdated until we pass our exam here in July) :)

THANK YOU LORD!

Glad to Grad

2010-05-15T03:36:00.001-07:00

Last weekend was our graduation ceremony, and it took place almost as if it were a dream. It's been almost two years ago since I packed up my things, said a tearful goodbye to my family, friends and homeland and headed towards and unknown place with unfamiliar faces. I remember being nervous, homesick and just plain scared. What in the world did I think I was doing moving to Asia and diving into an intense midwifery course with absolutely no medical background?? But there was one thing I was confident in, and that was that I knew God had called me to this place; and that's all I really needed.
And now here I am. This place has become like another home to me, and my fellow classmates like another family. Together the Lord has taken us through things that have bonded us in ways we could have never imagine. And as for getting through the midwife course- all I can say is that it was by God`s Grace.
As we were handed our graduation certificate (postdated until we write our final exam at the end :P), my heart was full of joy and gratitude to our God for His great faithfulness. I looked around at all my midwife sisters... we had made it TOGETHER! I was so proud of them, and honored to be apart of such an amazing group. A real team!
Now just two more major exams to write (July and August) and our clinical to finish up, and we`re home free! :) :) :) I get excited thinking about coming home- it`s coming up so close. But when I think about how close it is, I think about my board exam; and often I`ve had to pick up my heart out of my stomach! :S :) :D If you know me well, you`d know I dislike exams. I know, I know- who does!!! But mine is a very big dislike! :P Anyways, I would greatly appreciate your prayers!
Tomorrow Ive been invited to one of my old patients birthday party! :) It will be good to see her again and her baby that is now getting close to a year old.
Well thats all for today...
Keep on keeping on!
SMH

p.s pics to follow sometime soon! :)

Politics-Weather-Graduation! :)

2010-05-03T17:31:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!! Me again reporting 'alive' from Davao city! :)

Things have been a little crazy in this country with elections coming up on May 10th. The entire city seems to be plastered with signs and posters... I'm not sure how many parties are running, but it seems to me that each poster is promoting a different person!!! I find it amusing how they randomly block off main roads for a day to run a campaign. I've tried asking around about the elections and how they work here, but proper answers are hard to find. So I've remained somewhat it the dark, wondering where May 10th will take this country.

I do know that this is their first time they are electronically voting. So in an attempt to ensure that the power does not go out for the 24 hours on May 10th, they have been conserving energy by turning off the power for a few hours every few days or so. I'm looking forward to when that comes to an end.

Hot season is definitely back, and will be here for a good long while. It's always hot here, but now is when it gets extra hot. The type of climate the makes you sweat 24-7 even if you're just standing there! :S :) And when you get up at 3am to stroll around the house because you don't know what to do with yourself, and then realize it's not much cooler outside than it had been at 3pm. One day last week around noon, our director check his outdoor thermometer that was in the sun- it read 55C (131F)!! Hala!
Please pray that the climate won't hinder our attitudes and motivation! :)

But enough about politics and the weather... By far the top news this week is that my class is having our graduation ceremony on Saturday!! This will be my first official graduation! :P
I still can't believe believe we've come to this point!! We still have our final exams to write and a few more book reports to finish up... But the course work is "huma-na"(FINISHED)!!!! Praise God. So I will definitely have to post some pictures next week.

I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of you again for your encouraging comments, e-mails and prayers!! They are what help me to 'keep on keeping on!"

"till next time"

The Hand of God

2010-04-25T00:56:00.000-07:00

The wind felt like a heater blasting on me as I zipped along the streets of Davao in the open-air tricycab. I was on my way to the hospital again to visit one of my patients, Emilie. On Sunday she had walked into the clinic ready to have her baby; before I knew it she was pushing and I was ready to catch. A few minutes later her baby came out limp and with no breathing efforts. We began neonatal resuscitation which lasted for a brutal ten minutes before the baby finally gave out a feeble cry. I then transported the baby immediately, but because the hospital was busy, she didn't receive direct attention. I left with the baby still crying, but not in good condition. I prayed hard.

As I stepped inside the crowded hospital, I subconsciously switched my breathing from my nose to mouth. But now I could taste the air. I found Emilie in one of the crowded rooms, and with one glance at the baby's respiration's I knew she wasn't doing well. After talking with Emilie, I discovered that both oxygen and medication had be prescribed, but none were given since she had no money. Emilie looked distressed, and I felt so helpless, knowing I could do nothing. Our policy at Mercy does not allow us to provide financial support for our patients. This policy may seem unreasonable and harsh, but if you knew the system here, you would understand. Still, it is so hard. I asked her if I could pray for her and her baby, and as I did the tears flowed freely. I hugged her and encouraged her to trust God to provide.
The next day I went again, and found her still sitting on the little steel chair beside her baby's crib- that's all the space she had in the room. But she was smiling, and the baby appeared to be doing better. In her broken English she told me what had happened. "Ma'am Sarah, after you left last night my husband showed up with some money that was enough to pay for the medicine and oxygen- it was because you prayed!" I felt like bursting into tears of joy! Yes, our prayers had been answered! And once again I was reminded to never underestimate the power of prayer and the grace of our God.
On Thursday evening I felt compelled go visit her again. After a few minutes of visiting, Emilie sheepishly asked me if I had received a text message from her. I hadn't since my phone battery had died that afternoon while I was out. She than explained to me that her husband had been called out to a far place for his job and was not able to come that day with money. This meant she had nothing to eat all day. Her desperate situation made me want to weep. And then I realized why God had sent me there that evening. We may not be allowed to give money, but we can give food! :)
Emilie's life (along with so many others here) makes me continually realize how blessed we are- we have no idea! But this experience, as hard as it may be, also encourages me to see how God is still in control and continues to meet the greatest needs in His perfect time. And to thing that we have the amazing privileged to see His mighty hand and power of love in action.
"That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the Lord, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the Lord your God for ever" (Joshua 4:24).

Please continue to pray! Little is much when God is in it!

Sending "warm" greetings to you all!
SH

2010-04-23T21:21:00.000-07:00

Cooking dinner over beach fire :)

The Old Man and the Sea :) The thing around his neck is home-made goggles
Where we hung our hammocks

Back in the city... on a tricy riding home

"Rest Awhile"

2010-04-18T18:20:00.000-07:00

I woke up and peeked though the zipper of my hammock. The darkness of the night had disappeared as a new morning was born, once again uncovering the beauty around us. Just outside the small pavilion where four of us had hung our hammocks, I could see the bright blue water stretching far beyond the sandy white beach.
"I'm pretty sure this is the life!" was one of the first thoughts that popped into my mind. :) I can't remember the last time I had felt this relaxed.
Kendra, Bethany, Beth and I had managed to slip away for a day and a half to a beautiful little beach cove a taxi, ferry, and motor ride away. Despite the fact that the ocean is not very far, our lifestyle here hasn't afford too much time away. I remember my niece once asking me, "Auntie Sarah, have you gone to the beach lately?" I had to think back aways- it had been over five months.
Now as our days here are being numbered, we all decided to make extra effort to enjoy our beautiful backyard beyond the city smog.
It was a delightful time away, and a good reminder that God does want us to "rest awhile" now and again. He has given us both the gift of work and relaxation, but it's sometimes hard to know the healthy balance. I guess that's something we need to work out with Him- He knows best.
As we stepped off the ferry back into the city, I felt like we were hitting reality again. But it was okay. Our little time away had given us precious memories to hold forever, and renewed strength to face whatever was next.
Today I got a card that had the following saying: "Lord help me remember that nothing is going to happen today that You and I can't handle together." It's so true, but I believe with the Lord, not only can you "handle" what life brings you, it also becomes a joy.

Thanks again for letting me spill out what's on my heart and mind- or at least a tiny fraction of it! ;)

Sending hugs and greetings from the Philippines!
SH

P.s. pictures to follow sometime this week :)

In His Time

2010-04-10T10:19:00.000-07:00

I wiped the sweat from my face with the top of my scrub sleeve as I bent over the low clinic bed to check my patients pulse. I smiled at the beautiful picture in front of me: A brand-new mother holding her little baby pretty much fresh off the press. :) Not even an hour old, she seemed to have already made herself at home in this strange, non-fluid environment. I congratulated Claire again; I was so proud of her. It had been a long hard labor.

The day before she was texting me throughout her labour, and I encouraged her to stay home and get lots of rest. At 10pm she texted me again: "Ma'am Sarah I don't know what my feeling is now so I think I should come to Mercy." I had to smile- what a sweet girl!
I met her at the clinic and admitted her soon after since she was far enough along in labour to stay. At around midnight she came to the desk where I was charting. and I leaned over to massage her back through each contraction. She was tired and having bad back labor, and I could see in her eyes that she really needed companionship and comfort. Her husband was sleeping on the bench outside. I took her back to the bed where she non-hesitantly lay down and relaxed as I stood in front of her. I quickly exited the cubical to get to the other side of the bed so I could rub her back, but I had barely shut the curtain before she bolted up out of the bed. NO way was she going to let me leave her alone! :)
By the time the pushing stage began, Claire was exhausted. "Saaaarah, it's so pain!" she kept moaning. "You could can do this Claire." I tried to sound enthusiastic. She would nod in agreement until the next contraction hit. "No, I CAN'T do this! SarAH....is it far?" And so the cycle continued with each contraction. Finally at 6:30am she delivered, and we all cheered as I handed her her little girl. Suddenly she forgot she was exhausted: It was a beautiful moment.

Less than an hour after the birth, I sat beside Claire to monitor her closely and begin charting. But I had barely sat down before my cell phone went off... It was another one of my patients, and it sounded like she was in active labor. She came in soon after, and delivered her baby at 9:30am. It was an eventful morning to say the least.

I finally left the clinic sometime a little after noon, exhausted but full of gratefulness to God for His goodness and grace. Although there had been some major complications, both patients were now stable and recovering. And God had also provided me with the exact number of continuities right on time. It can never be emphasized enough; Great is His faithfulness!

Thank you so much to those of you praying- God never ceases to answer!

"Till next time!"

Happy Easter Indeed! :)

2010-04-03T16:36:00.000-07:00

In Christ alone my hope is found He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness Scorned by the ones He came to save
‘Til on that cross as Jesus died The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious Day Up from the grave He rose again
And as He stands in victory Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me
For I am His and He is mine Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death This is the power of Christ in me
From life’s first cry to final breath Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no scheme of man Can ever pluck me from His hand
‘til He returns or calls me home Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand

I Believe in Miracles, For I Believe in God

2010-03-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we suspect the conclusion of a story, only to discover that God has planned a beautiful new chapter. This past week we had the joy and privilege of witnessing one of these unexpected and miraculous chapters.
In my last posting I talked about a preterm baby who was discharged from the hospital against medical consent due to the family unable to pay for hospital bills. He was so small, maybe a few pounds in weight, and not doing very well. To top it off, he is from a Badjao family.
The Badjaos are a Filipino Muslim Ethnic group of sea gypsies. They are an extremely poor ethnic group that depend depend mainly on fishing for their survival. Badjao communities fall under the category of government DDU areas: depressed, deprived, and underdeveloped. Although they have been age-old boat dwellers, Badjao's now live on floating houses built on stilts above their boats and fishing paraphernalia. It's sad to see them exploit the water below for a wide range of purposes which includethe deposit of bodily waste and garbage as well as bathing and fishing. Due to their extreme poverty and lack of education (they don't even know their own age), we make exceptions for them regarding our policy of care at the clinic. For example, we will accept them in labor even if they haven't come for any prenatal visits.
That being said, when we heard that this little baby was taken to his community, we didn't think there was much hope of his survival. How could he in such living conditions? But for God, nothing is impossible. A few days after being discharged from the hospital, my friend (the baby's midwife) miraculously found the family and was shocked to find the baby still alive!
Last Sunday I went with Maria to visit the baby. Because of his poor vital signs and weight loss (imagine!) the time before, we asked them if the mother and baby could come back to our clinic for a week of supervision and breastfeeding support. She unexpectedly agreed, but lasted only one night before begging to return to her family.
The baby is still unstable, but seems to be doing somewhat better. Realistically, medically this baby should not have even survived. But praise be to God, His ways are above that which "should have been." Because of this truth, we undeservedly experience His mercy and grace.
Even though we don't know what will happen with this baby, we know that God is bigger than any of life's questions.
Miracles still happen, but I don't believe they take place by chance. Instead, they are beautifully, perfectly instigated by the hands of God; it's in those hands I know I am secure.

Miracle baby :)

Badjao community...at low tide

Just one of the tears of the world

2010-03-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

I stepped inside the white curtain enclosing one of the five birth cubicles. Another birth was taking place. The woman had just begun to push as I sat down nearby to make myself available if necessary. The atmosphere was calm as we carried on a lighthearted conversation. Suddenly the mood changed as we discovered that the baby’s presentation was not cephalic (head first): it was breech. After a rather difficult delivery a tiny little baby was born limp and lifeless. After deep suctioning with no effect, we began to immediately prepare for transport. A few midwives ran to get the portable oxygen tank as the supervisor quickly transferred the baby onto the mini resuscitation stretcher. Quickly I picked up the oxygen mask and began to give the baby PPV (positive pressure ventilation) as the other midwife carried him into the ambulance. For a few moments inside the ambulance it was just me and the baby. The others were still preparing the oxygen tank, and although nothing was hooked up to the mask, I continued to give PPV. At least the baby would still receive 20% oxygen. Breath...2...3... Breath...2...3... Besides a faint heartbeat, the baby had made no sign of life. As I looked down at this tiny (less than 2kg) baby in front of me, I suddenly realized his life could be taken right before my eyes. My legs began to shake, and I prayed as hard as I could- begging God to spare his little life. By this time we were on our way to the hospital and the oxygen had been hooked up. Brianna and I were continuing to do CPR when suddenly the baby gave out a little cry. It was almost the sound I've ever heard! When we arrived at the hospital, I had a hard time leaving the baby... Would he receive adequate care? Would he make it? Then God reminded me that this baby’s life was not simply in the hands of the hospital, he was in His care. With peace and confidence I knew I could leave him there... It was the best place.
That evening I went with the midwife to visit the baby. Thank God he was still alive. The next day my friend went to visit again only to discover that the family had discharged the baby against medical consent. They had no money to keep the baby in intensive care. We were crushed, realizing the baby didn’t have much hope to live.
It’s been hard, witnessing so much heartaches and pain. And then I thought of how little I actually witness, compared to God who sees and knows everything. I can't imagine how much agony He must endure. Elizabeth Elliot once wrote, "None of us likes pain. All of us wish at times we did not need to 'go through all this stuff.' Let us settle it once and for all: we cannot know Christ and the power of His resurrection without the fellowship of His suffering."
So as much as it hurts, as overwhelming as it can be, if we truly want to know Him more we must continue to pray for what Michael Card so beautifully penned in one of his songs:

So open my eyes and open my heart

Grant me the gift of Your grieving

Awaken in me the compassion to weep

Just one of the tears of the world

And remembering with joy- it will be worth it all when we see Jesus...

A Call in the Night

2010-03-15T05:32:00.000-07:00

It was 11pm. I had just turned off the light and was looking forward to a good nights sleep. I barely had my eyes shut before my cellphone went off: my continuity was at the clinic in labor. I quickly scrubbed up and headed over to the clinic. After picking up her chart I realized I had only been able to complete 3 prenatals on her since she wasn't able to return for her last one, and she was only a little over 37 weeks.
For the school here we need five continuities before graduating, and in order for it to count as a continuity, I needed at least four prenatals on her. So far, out of the 15 or so continuities that I have taken, only three count. All the others had similar problems with shortage of prenatals or I had to transport them to the hospital.
Right away I felt my attitude going the wrong direction. But instead of keeping it in check, I let the struggle continue inside as I questioned God..."Lord, why have you let this happen with so many of my patients?" I had even prayed in the beginning that He would quickly give me five continuity births so I wouldn't stress about it before the deadline. And I didn't want to have to have to think about my patients in terms of "how many I need." To me the prayer made sense... Why wouldn't God fulfill that desire and request? But here I was, stressing about my numbers, and yet another one had "failed."
Because I was so upset with God, I didn't even feel like being a midwife that night. I don't think my patient realized what was going inside of me, as somehow I greeted her with a disguising smile. But I felt like a cruddy midwife.
She delivered that night, and it was a hard birth. For three and half hours she continued to hemorrhage, as I did my best to control it with every management in the book. It was also a three and a half hour struggle with God. It rooted with my bad attitude in the beginning, and spread to feelings of not wanting to be here- not wanting to deal with anothercomplication. But by 5am, God had intervened with more than the birth complications, He had also worked on me. Before I left, completely exhausted and spent, my sweet patient thanked me over and over again. I felt like bursting into tears and telling her to stop. I didn't deserve any thanks- God knew! :) But He allowed her anyway, to teach me a lesson, to show me His grace. And I felt humbled and honored that He still choose to use me, despite my selfishness.
This weekend they came for their third day check up. Her husband greeted me outside the clinic with a big smile and a huge bag of fruit; I couldn't believe it! I think God winked and smiling at me...and I'm pretty sure I went red. :)

Top Headline of Today's Paper

2010-03-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

This weeks coverage is one that I have been looking forward to making since the creation of this blog. It's not necessarily going to be the largest breaking news, however, I do believe it ranks near the top five. After a year and a half of endless typing, we have completed our very last written assignment. I probably wouldn't think twice before believe someone if they told me that all the midwifery data we've compiled in these assignments could reach the moon and back if typed in font size six. :) There were definitely days when I thought it would never end, and I would wonder if I could make it to the next deadline. And it was in those weeks, days, and moments that I was continually reminded that His strength is indeed perfect when our strength is gone. I knew this was real, as so many times I was truly empty and yet He carried me through. Thinking back on the past year and a half the following words come to mind...
"I will not boast in anything, no gifts no power no wisdom. But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and Resurrection!"
Really, truly, I couldn't have done these assignments and everything else going on here without Him. He pretty wonderful! :)
So here I am today, still trying to believe that we've come this far. The textbooks are still far from collecting dust on the shelf. We have an exam tomorrow, laws and protocols to compile, book reports to write, final paperwork to complete, clinical work to continue, and the final board exam to think about. But Praise God no more assignment confinement! :) Bring out the chocolates- that's something worth celebrating!! :)

In memory =)

Party time :)

2010-03-04T21:17:00.000-08:00

Monday morning at 4am a few of us Canadians woke up and headed over to Tim and Bethany's place to watch the hockey Olympic game... It really was a special time and we had a blast! I don't think I've ever been this patriotic... ;)

Crowding around the computer to watch the game... we were catching a stream that kept cutting in and out Making crepes for Breakfast :) Celebrating

2010-02-20T21:25:00.000-08:00

Its been quite the week. I had one of my continuity patients go into labor Monday evening. I was pretty excited as she been a really special patient to me. However, I was super disappointed to have to transport her 14 hours later due to complications! :( Her baby ended up being delivered by C/S. After visiting her in the hospital it made me wish even more that I could have delivered her baby... Only God knows. When I went to the hospital the next day I asked her if she was nursing her baby. She shook her head, and began explaining to me that she didn't have any milk. I had to shake my own head, as for some reason 95% of the women hear believe this myth. Needless to say, a few minutes later she was beaming away as her baby began to nurse. I've got to admit, it's pretty satisfying feeling.
Since I wrote my last post, I've gotten a little older...Not so sure about the wiser part! :) The girls went super out on making my birthday special, as well as all the messages and e-mails from everyone back home! THANK YOU all!!! :) Mom and Dad even sent me flowers...My! I felt spoiled! In the evening the girls (20 or so)and I went out to "The Swiss Deli"- a European restaurant that has delicious food. We went after supper for some appetizers (imported meats and cheese..mmmm), cake, and coffee. I was a blast!! hmmm... It was a good day!
I posted pictures below

Flower from Mom & Dad :)

Birthday Hugs- I love these girls! Swiss Deli Nice backdrop ;S :)

Please pray for the two exams I have coming up this week. We're getting so close to finishing your assignment!! PTL!

Sending a big hug to the homeland and to those of you from my second home (Belgium :))

"Till next time"

A tribute to my sister:

2010-02-20T19:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a special day. Thirty-three years ago my sister Bonnie was born. We had no idea that God's plan for her life here on earth was mapped out for only twenty-seven years, and perhaps in many ways we took her life for granted while she was still here. It just natural to have her part of our lives... until she was taken away from us. And then I realized really how precious her life was, and how fortunate I was to have her as a sister. Her love, life, and everything she taught me has tremendously influenced me in so many ways.

Nelly wrote this little poem in memory of her life...

No Birthdays in Heaven

Should we say she would have been 33
When God's plan was 27?
Can we speak of age while in glorified state
She's no longer counting in heaven?

But in this time-restricted place
On 'would haves' we naturally dwell
Since our minds are too small to conceive of at all
What actually IS for her now! ...

Bonnie is home with her Savior, dwelling forever in the land where no tears or sadness can be found; but what about the rest of us still here? I miss her, and sometimes I long to see and talk to her so much that my heart aches. We soon learned time can heal only to the extent of numbing the pain, but God is the ultimate healer of broken hearts. He provided us with a peace beyond our understanding, and a joy and strength to carry on.
Yes, it has been over 5 years ago now since Bonnie left us with just the memory of her smile. The questions remain still unanswered. Sometimes we even still cry, but when we do they are with tears of hope; hope for that day when we will indeed see her face again. With faith we look ahead to that place where the sun never sets, and where goodbyes are no more. Until then, we strive to do what Bonnie would so often encourage us to do; to “keep on keeping on.”

2010-02-14T04:29:00.000-08:00

Hey- I'm back. Sorry I missed last week's update.

These past few weeks have been rather packed, both eventfully and emotionally.
In my exhaustion I half seriously/jokingly told the girls I was going to quit. Beth and Bethany threatened to tape me to the wall if I ever came close to making that decision! :) Of course I wouldn't- a rather crazy idea seeing we're so close to finishing...
But that's the great part about the girls here- we're in it together, and we're getting through it together. A definite team. They've been a tremendous encouragement to me, and I sure love them all! :)
This past week we've had a lot of classes on top of our assignments. So in many ways I felt like I was jumping from clinic to class to assignment before falling into bed! :) Friday was my only day off of clinic or class, so I hibernated with my assignment at a coffee shop for 12 hours. The coffee shop owners must have thought I was a little loopy. :S :) But thankfully I was able to get a lot done. Part of me was glad it was a busy week...
Last week I had another continuity gave birth, and then Monday, yesterday and today I handled three more births! :) This morning's shift was insane with lots of patients and complications. But God was gracious and brought us through it. I was close to delivering two babies, but I endorsed my second labor to the next shift about half hour before she delivered.
Come to think of it, yesterday was also a crazy shift. I was helping out with one birth when a 16 year old girl walked in pretty much ready to push her baby out. From looking at her lying on the bed she hardly looked pregnant, and after glancing at her chart I realized she wasn't quite term. But there wasn't much we could do as she was already pushing, except prepare for immediate transport after. A few minutes later I was holding a very tiny but vigorous four pound baby boy in my hands! Because the baby was stabilizing well, we allowed him to stay for awhile to bond and breastfeed with his mom before transporting for more intensive care. Below I've posted a few pictures....
Please pray for me this week that the Lord would not only give me the energy but the joy to continue on with the work He has provided for me here. I also have two continuities that are due to deliver any time- please also pray all goes well.

I guess I should say "Happy Valentines Day!" I actually love the true story behind this day of Saint Valentine.

Well, here's to another week of God's great faithfulness! He never promised life would be easy or painless, but He does promise that He will always be with us!

These two pictures above are of my preterm baby

____________________________________________________________________

Continuity of Care Patients

Her nickname is Jem- and she certainly was a "Gem" She delivered on Jan 25

Another patient I grew to love so much!! She delivered on February 1st

2010-01-30T23:03:00.000-08:00

The other week a young mother still pregnant with her first baby walked into the clinic. She was full term, and in her hands she clutched a paper containing a freshly printed ultrasound. She handed over the paper and quickly made her way to CR (washroom). I scanned over the ultrasound results and my heart sunk as I read the bold letters at the bottom. "Fetal Death in Utero." The stark reality of its message made me tremble inside. I glanced over at the closed bathroom door, and I knew she was behind it concealing her tears. When she finally came out, I took her over to a bed to talk and pray with her. I fought back tears as she bravely kept back her own; it's not cultural to cry in public. "I accept!" she told me with a broken heart.
Today my friend had a patient who was immediately transported due to complications. Her baby was born, but never had the chance to take his first breath.
There are many things in life I don't understand. Why does life end for some before it even begins? Why does it even begin for some who live day to day with hardship and poverty. My heart aches for those little children begging on the busy city streets. They are not but ten years of age, yet no one is there to take care of them or ensure that they are safe. I see the blind man with his hands outstretched for money, sitting in the same spot day after day in front of the mall. I see people in the hospital dying because they cannot afford proper medical care- something we take for granted. I see countless women coming through the clinic, each having a story. They are not simply sad tales that are used in missionary presentations to briefly stir the hearts of those listening. It's the harsh reality many of these women live in, and are birthing their children into. Some women don't even return to the clinic to complete their child's birth certificate... Why would they? What is their child's future?
Yes, there are many things in life I do not understand. But there is one thing I know for certain. There is a God who is just and merciful, and who promises to answer those who call on His name.
There is hope- a future, and it's our responsibility, our privilege to spread this good news:
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed (Luke 4:18).
We cannot solve the world's problems, and make an end to evil. But we can point people to the One who will, and has already conquered sin and death. He alone makes life worth living.

2010-01-23T21:55:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful afternoon, with a mix of sunshine and rainclouds. I can hear goats bleating behind our tall cement wall that separates our tiny back yard from a small patch of undeveloped land. However, the sounds of traffic is a reminder that I'm still in the city.
This week we all got out or socks and long sleeve shirts as the temperature dropped to a whopping low of 24 degrees Celsius- brrr!!! :) It's amazing how far we've come in adjusting to this climate!
The clinic this month has been surprisingly slow. In February I have four continuities that are due, so I don't think I'll be giving you the same report next month! :) This month I didn't have any continuities, and it's been a nice break. You don't feel so glued to your cell phone, always wondering if the next text message will be from a patient in labor.
I have, however, delivered three babies since the new year. :)
I just checked through my January folder of pictures and didn't find any new ones to post this week. :( I'm sorry... :)
Well, I believe that's all for this week. I won't bore you with details of my studies.:) And that's pretty much what consumes most of the hours I'm not on shift.
Enjoy the week ahead, as we press on!

"till next time"
SH

2010-01-16T23:13:00.000-08:00

What to say...what to write. It's been an eventful week for sure, but nothing too exciting. I did have one beautiful birth this week. The clinic has been a somewhat quieter this week, which I've actually been thankful for as I've been fighting a bad cold... ugh! But when it gets so quiet for a period of time, we have to wonder when we're going to get slammed on with patients! :)
Today- Sunday, I've been enjoying a quiet day at the dorm here, catching up with e-mails etc. It's been pretty sweet! :) I'm heading off to Church in a few minutes here, and then it's night shift tonight.
Mrs Frayle, a very amazing and wonderful lady from my church sent me back with a bunch of baby sleepers- So thoughtful of her! I promised I'd send some pictures of at least one baby wearing one of the sleepers... So these pictures are especially for her! Thank you again Mrs. Frayle. My patient was super pleased with it! And the lola (grandmother) kept saying how gwapo (handsome) her little grandson looked in his new outfit. They had only had a little shirt, hat, and a blanket, so it was perfect!

Such precious little bundles- so new so fresh! Feeling so honored to be one of the first people to welcome these little lives into this world
The whole family with big smiles :)
Me:"can you kiss him?"
Big bro "I don't know about this...but I guess I'll listen to the strange white girl"

Oh so cute... he's going to be a good kuya "big brother" :)

2010-01-10T05:43:00.000-08:00

BABY 60 Before 2010!!!!
"Wow" is definitely one of the words the come to mind when thinking on the reality of already having delivered 60 babies. Blessed, privileged, honored and ecstatic are a few other. :)
To think that in the past 13 months (I started handling on Nov 13, 2008), I was given the opportunity and experience of assisting 60 babies into this world blows my mind! God is so good!! Without all the practical hands-on experience this clinic has/is providing, I think I would still be trying to figure out the basics of midwifery! :P It's amazing to be able to read something in a textbook and then to experience it first hand! God must have known it would take the second part in order for things to click in my head.. :) I love it, and bring myself back to this reality when I begin to feel overwhelmed or exhausted. There is much to learn, and now is the time and place! Well, I think that learning part will continue for as long as I live...:)
This morning was another learning experience for me with a difficult delivery at 5:18am. I ended up transporting the mother immediately. I went back to the hospital later to see if she was okay and had be transferred to the main ward. Thank God I found her, and she was doing well! I then went back Mercy and picked up her baby to bring back to the hospital to be reunited with her mother. :)
Soooo.... We are now on the home-stretch!! It's exciting and nerve wracking all at the same time! But I'm not going to lie... I'm looking forward to finishing up these studies! :)

Below I posted a few pictures of the birth of Honey Mae's baby girl- Rezhra Czarina ($5 if you can correctly pronounce it :D). She was my 60th handle!

One of my favorite pictures (above)

Well there ya have it! :) Hope you all have a wonderful week! Pray that I don't kill anyone with cooking this week! ;)
-SH

2009-12-30T20:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas Remembered:
Christmas has come and gone, and despite the fact that home was missed tremendously, it was a beautiful one. It's always a funny feeling after Christmas- maybe because we take our time getting geared up for it. Especially here in the Philippines, where Christmas decorations and lights begin appearing already in September. But now what's left of Christmas is a few extra pounds, decorations ready to be taken down, a garbage full of wrapping paper, and many memories.
This year, a new little baby girl, Newleah Mary Joy, was birthed into my ready hands Christmas morning at 7:14am: My second Christmas baby! :)
My Continuity"

On December 29th, my Con't Ma Luisa delivered a healthy baby boy, Gilbert Luis! I was so excited that she gave birth in time. She had only 4 days left before I would have had to transport her for post-dates. And this birth was special as her last baby was my first handle. It's pretty neat to have had the privileged of delivering a bother and sister.
On her last prenatal before giving birth, Ma Luisa (nicknamed Bing) brought her little girl I had delivered Nov 2008. It was so special to see a baby I had delivered now a little toddler running around! As you can see by the pictures below, she's so adorable!

- Gilbert Luis -

Maayong Pasko- Merry Christmas!!!!

2009-12-23T11:10:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!!! I’ve been slacking a little with posting, but gave myself the excuse that everyone is too busy anyways with Christmas rush to even notice! :o)
Christmas Eve will arrive in just a few hours here!! This past weekend we had a Christmas party with all the midwives and staff from Mercy Clinic. It must have been quite the sight seeing 30 + women having a time of their lives, and Filipinos sure LOVE to laugh- it’s great!!! Krys, the director, did an amazing job putting a number of games together.
So it looks like we’ve got our Christmas week all planned out, to make it as special and exciting as possible being away from home and family. We all have two weeks off of studies, but since some girls are away for a few weeks, extra shifts had to be picked up. So it’s pretty much working almost everyday and THOROUGHLY enjoying every minute off work with no assignments!! It’s easy to fill up those moments with Christmas baking and shopping, cooking (I’m on this week), catching up with people back home, spending quality time with the girls here, and getting caught up on extra projects. These two weeks are going to fly, but then we’ll be on the home stretch before we know it! It’s also pretty sweet getting to working shift with no assignment that normally haunt you …:o)
Well, I’m on night shift tonight, have Christmas Eve off, and then day shift on Christmas day.
Christmas Eve we’re doing a little gift exchange at our place with just us students, and then having a little service together- should be special! 

I hope you have a blessed Christmas wherever this finds you!! We are indeed blessed by the special gift Christmas brought to us so many years ago!

A big Christmas hug to you all!!

-Carmen and I on our last shift together before she went back to the States -

It's starting to look a bit like Christmas! =)

2009-12-13T00:32:00.000-08:00

Yes- almost Christmas time!! :)This will be my second "hot Christmas," but I still can't say I'm use to it! Oh well, you just crank up the Christmas music a little louder and put up few decorations to remind you of the season! :) I'm not going to lie, it won't be easy being away from my family for another Christmas... BUT it makes me realize how spoiled I am with having a special family back home... and you can interpret the word 'special' however you like... :P No, I love them deeply and am forever thankful for them! God has a good way of providing exactly what we need!

This week on the 18th we hand in our current assignment and write the exam for it... and then- FREEDOM from assignment for two whole weeks!! :D We'll still be working clinical shifts since babies come out whenever they please! ;) But I'm looking looking forward to putting the books away for a few weeks!! Hopefully that will give some extra time for Christmas baking! :P

Carmen, one of the supervisors here at the clinic who did her training here and stayed on a few more years, will be leaving on Tuesday back to the States! :( She was my supervisor for the first 6 months, and we're going to miss you a lot!! But I'm thankful for the years God gave her here...and she needs a break from this craziness! :)

Above I posted a few pictures of my attempt to making it feel like Christmas here! :)

Have a good week... and hope nobody is getting too stressed with the "Christmas rush!" That sure can spoil the reason why we celebrate!

God bless!
Sarah

2009-12-06T07:02:00.000-08:00

A patient walks into the clinic, and as I am next up, I bring her over to a bed to evaluate her labor and vital signs. I normally take out the fetal heart Doppler with only the thought of where I will locate the heart beat, always taking for granted that they will be present. But this time, something took place this week that made me think... Beth, one of my classmates who's currently in Tabuk, had a stillbirth this week. No heart tones could be found, and an ultrasound confirmed what was dreaded. As midwives we all know at some point we will each possibly face these difficult circumstances, yet again and again we take for granted each miraculous birth wherein God provides health and life.
As I slip the Doppler over the mother's "baby bump," I breath a sigh of relief as I hear the rhythmic beat of the baby's heart- 144, 136, 140... I can't take this for granted...
We live in a world that continually questions and blames God when something goes wrong, but never seem to give it a second thought or bother to thank Him when things do. Each day our own hearts beat about 30800 times, as He continues to faithfully provide us with life and health. Each day is a gift from God...

Welcome to another week!

2009-11-29T07:11:00.000-08:00

Another week has come and gone, and with it American thanksgiving. I guess you can never be too thankful! =) I was going to say I'm about all dinnered out, but tomorrow I get the privilege of being invited to a missionary couple's place to celebrate Thanksgiving with a few of their Filipino friends. It's pretty neat to be a Canadian celebrating American thanksgiving in the Philippines! :)And yes, there's so much to be thankful for!!
Tuesday our current assignment is due, along with the exam. I always dread those deadlines, but look forward to finishing another assignment! :)
I'm sorry there's not much news this week.
I decorated my desk for Christmas- makes it feel a little more like Christmas is around the corner! The weather doesn't really help much! :D

Please continue to pray that God will give me the strength to give my best in the work He's provided for me here! And not that I would just get the work accomplished, but that Jesus would shine through every action and word!

2009-11-22T05:41:00.000-08:00

Sooo... It's back to life in Davao city! It was sad leaving Tabuk, and all the wonderful/beautiful people we had the privilege of meeting, but it was good to come back to my midwife sisters here in Davao! I was able to deliver one baby while being there, and thoroughly enjoyed being a part of such an amazing little clinic for a few weeks! They have one amazing team there, as you can see from the pictures! :)
Well, unlike the last post, this one will be nice and short! I had day shift today, and again tomorrow. This week I'm on cooking, and it's American thanksgiving! I think this time we will stick with Chickens! haha...
Dec 1st the assignment we're working on is due. It's huge, but very interesting! Please pray it will get done on time! :)

Thank you all for your love, encouragement and prayer support! I thank God always for the amazing support team I have back home!!

Till next time...

A few pictures of Tabuk

2009-11-22T05:03:00.000-08:00

A life changing Trip

2009-11-14T23:57:00.000-08:00

I woke up at 11:30pm with a start, and peeked out the bus window to find myself traveling through the beautiful Northern Philippine mountains! The darkness of the night made them appear as black shadows canopying the sky. I wished for daylight, so as to enjoy their beauty, but instead closed my eyes in a feeble attempt to get some sleep during the remainder of our eleven hour bus ride.
It was the 4th of November, and Bethany (another student) and I were on our way to Tabuk to a small maternity clinic run by a Canadian midwife, Georgia. We first flew to Manila, where we were able to spend one luxurious day together at the mall of Asia. We went ice skating (something I never dreamt could be done in the Philippines!), watched “Under the Sea” in 3D at an IMAX theater, and ate at a French bakery. We felt spoiled! After a night at a Baptist guesthouse, we headed to the airport only to discover- after we checked in- that our next flight was canceled due to a typhoon at our destination! The airlines work a little differently here than back home- no accommodations were made, no flights were available for two days, and we’d be lucky to get reimbursed. So we picked up our luggage and made our way through the crazy traffic in Manila to catch a night bus…

At 5:30am we arrived at the clinic, which is also Georgia’s house. It was such a relief to be finally out of the city, breathing in fresh country air!! And the place definitely had country flair, with pigs, chickens, dogs, and water buffalos roaming around. The lifestyle is different as well. The outhouse and shower are just outside, and a pump serves as a water supply for the bathroom, and hand-washing clothes. When you hear “Mangan” you know it’s time to eat. =) They have fish or chicken for breakfast, lunch, and supper, always served with rice- as a meal without rice is no meal at all for a Filipino!! =)

I immediately fell in love with the clinic here, which is much smaller than Mercy Clinic in Davao- a big reason why we came. Our director wanted us to have the opportunity to witness this type of clinic, as Mercy itself is far too large for our minds to possibly image duplicating. It takes around thirty midwives to run Mercy, as apposed to four here! Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to deliver any babies here yet; however, I did have to transport two patients to the local hospital due to complications.

On the 13th, Bethany, Anita (a Filipino midwife) and I headed on a six hour trip up into the mountains to the small village of Bugnay, situated on the side of a mountain! We rode on the roof of a jeepney, completely spellbound by the breath-taking scenery of the beautiful rice terraces that have been carefully carved into the natural contour of the mountains. As we rode (more liked bounced) along, we were often faced with the predicament of passing oncoming traffic on a narrow one-lane path. Somehow, they always made it work! =) The path was rough, as it had just rained that weekend, and at one point, where a landslide had occurred, I wondered how we would pass through the muck! The jeepney slowly made its way through the mess, but it was too much! Our jeepney completely slid onto its side!! Thankfully, except for bruises and cuts, nobody got hurt! They managed to get the jeepney back upright with a loader that happened to be there fixing the path. I must admit, after getting back on, the next hour ride to our destination was one of the most terrifying of my life! I was on the top again, and for most part we were riding on a path that dropped at least 800 ft within a few meters from the side of the jeepney! Talk about praying hard- we sure were!
By the time we arrived it was dark, and we had to hike about 625 steps (Bethany counted =P) down the mountain, across a bridge, and up another mountain to reach the village. We were so relieved to make it to Emma’s house, Georgia’s friend who was our wonderful hostess! The few days we spent there will probably be some of the most memorable ones of my life! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay with the friendly villagers, scrubbing our clothes at the community water pipe, pounding rice, and dining on snails in their little huts! On the Sunday we went to the church where they asked Bethany, Emma, Anita and I to sing, and then give our testimony, with Emma translating. Such a sweet time of fellowship with people we couldn’t even understand!
We also went to the high school that was an about an hour hike up the mountain. The little elderly villagers put us to shame as they left us in the dust to huff and puff up the many steps leading up to, and through the village. The one day we went through the village to invite expecting mothers for a prenatal examination and we were excited to have 13 showed up. Some were a little timid to have these “strange white girls” do a prenatal exam on them! =)
On Tuesday morning, we had to say goodbye to Emma, the villagers and the beautiful rice terraces to bounce back on an overcrowded bus back to Tabuk! I will never forget Bugnay, that beautiful place where I learned so much about life!!

So that brings me back here in Tabuk, where I’ll be until the 20th. I am currently sitting on the clinic balcony watching self-made motors stacked with rice sacks zipping by, along with jeepneys overcrowded with people. Life is more simplistic here, and in many ways it’s more appealing then our sophisticated, chaotic life back home. But it is also harder- especially when you know a woman is dying in the hospital because her family has no way to pay for the medication. You see a little sweaty six year old boy carrying a heavy bundle up the mountain to his house, and a pregnant woman with a sleeping baby on her back, bent over scrubbing her family’s clothes. And then you realize that both worlds are not the answer. There’s only one solution to life- Jesus!

Tabuk/Bugnay Trip

2009-11-14T23:56:00.001-08:00

- Please click HERE to see album -

2009-10-25T16:40:00.000-07:00

As most of you already know, this past week has been one roller-coaster of a week! Tim's brain tumor diagnosis shook us all up, and it definitely was a "bonding time with the Lord" as we waited and prayed to hear the conclusive results from the MRI. PRAISE God they discovered it was not a tumor, but a cyst instead that could most likely be safely removed with surgery! God is so good! We were blown away with how many people were praying- God's family is something else!! :) We consider ourselves extremely blessed, and I know Tim was deeply touched!!
So this is a big THANK YOU to all who prayed! Prayer is so powerful and real; this truth is so evident when it touches your life over and over again!!

A little update for those of you who don't know- Tim will be going in on Monday morning to schedule the surgery and to talk over a few things with the surgeon!

Well, I'm off to work!

God bless!
SH

Canadian Thanksgiving

2009-10-17T05:13:00.000-07:00

-CLICK OF PHOTO TO SEE MORE-

Thanksgiving leftovers...

2009-10-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

Hi again! :) Another weekly update! I won’t bore you too much with words- but instead will post some pictures of our CANADIAN Thanksgiving!!! Haha- it’s been a big thing here to distinguish it as “Canadian” since the majority of girls here are American! =) Last year not much was done about Thanksgiving (except American Thanksgiving! =)), so I thought we better make up for that this year! And it worked out well that I was on cooking duty. So I switched shifts with another girl to get the Monday off, and invited our directors, a few other couples, and the green house girls (the other “dorm” with 8 students)! We had 30 people over for dinner… it was so GREAT!! =) It was a ton of fun to forget about assignments/shift for a day and instead plan and cook all day!!! We even bought a turkey from the market and slaughtered it ourselves!!! How’s that for a group of midwives?? Haha…
Our oven wasn’t big enough to cook the bird, so I brought it over to a missionary couple’s place to use their oven. It was such a fun day, and everyone got into the mood!! Some of the girls were so amazing in helping all afternoon in the kitchen! As you can see in the pictures, we took the feathers from our turkey to wear in celebration! I was pretty exhausted by the end of the day- a very good, satisfying tired… =)
That was our big exciting news for the week! =) The clinic has been a little quieter this week, which probably means we’ll be swamped next week! =P
Till next time…
SH

Gang-Gang

2009-10-11T07:51:00.000-07:00

- Gang-Gang laboring hard! -

A long week

2009-10-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

It's been quite the week! After day shift on Monday I received a text from one of my continuities (a patient who you put your name on her chart and complete all her care)saying her labor was more intense and she wanted to come in! So I threw my scrubs back on and met her at the clinic... She was already a good ways into her labor, so I admitted her. Her name is Gang gang- I mentioned her briefly in my last post. She is such a beautiful, sweet girl, and worked so hard with anything I would ask her to do in order to stimulate the labor to progress further! All evening and night long she kept her smile on as she would paced up and down the street in between resting! The night turned into morning, and still labor was more or less at a halt and Gang-Gang was getting extremely exhausted (and so was her midwife =)! Knowing that we would have to transport by 2pm if labor wasn't well on its way, we worked extra hard! The measurements of her baby was a big concern, so we couldn't just send her home to rest and return when she was more active. By 1pm Gang-Gang had lost all energy and ambition, and I was coming close with pushing 30 hours... The baby wasn't showing any signs of wanting to come- I knew we'd have to transport! It's always discouraging getting the transport papers and filling them out- especially with someone you've spent so much time with and who has worked so hard!! I had prayed so many times that she would have her baby without complications at Mercy!! For some reason that was not God's plan, and I knew I had to trust the Him that He was in control!
After transporting her, I came back in time for class- needless to say I fell asleep pretty much before it even started!!! :) Thankfully Krys sent me home to bed and told me she'd e-mail me class notes!! That night I received a text that Gang-Gang had a C-section at 11pm!!
It was quite an experience- one that every midwife will go through I'm sure many times (maybe not 30 hours every time! ;))!! And as much as I was disappointed that I didn't get to deliver her baby, and that she ended up having to be operated on- I'm thankful for the bonding experience we had together!
I was able to visit her a few times at the hospital, and she and her little baby girl seem to be doing well- they'll be going home tomorrow!
We'll I'm rambling on, so I better close off! :)

"HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!"

God bless,

Sarah

Snapshots of the Amazing Race last week...

2009-10-04T04:06:00.001-07:00

2009-10-04T02:53:00.000-07:00

I'm sure many of you have already heard about all the flooding going on in the Philippines... Thank God it hasn't effected this area - only the Northern part by Manila! This nation has definitely been shook up, as thousands and thousands of people are left homeless and without food!!

Today in church we sang the following song...

"When the oceans rise
and thunders roar.
I will soar with You, above the storm
Father You are king over the flood,
I will be still and know You are God."

Please pray for the Philippines....

Life here in Davao is going well!! :) One of my continuities is texting me now telling me she's in labor... Lord willing I'll be delivering her baby soon!! Pray all goes well! Her name is Gang gang!!

Will write soon!!

SH

2009-09-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

A little "hello" from me over here in the Philly! :)
It's a beautiful, hot Sunday here! The palm trees are gently swaying in the soft breeze left over from the rainy weather we've experienced the past few days. I've been so thankful for the palmy greenness that has survived city pollution! And I'm sure I've told you, but I'll say it again- "I love when it rains!!!" It usually means less sweat and a better sleep! :)
Friday, the day our assignment was initially due, came and went, but praise God we got an extension... Well, if you can call it an extension- we got another assignment on top of it, so they moved our date further so we could work on both! But hey, it all worked for the best, as most of us would have been under some pretty high stress and late late nights in order to finish for Friday anyways! :) So, as always, the Lord knew our needs!
Yesterday all of the students were not scheduled on shift (just Filipino staff), and the leaders set up an amazing race for us!! We had such a blast!!!! And it was even better that my team won!! hahaha Nah, win or lose, it was a great day!! It was good to get away from assignment/shifts for a day, and spend some quality time with the girls! If I get a chance, I'll post some pictures!

Alrighty- hope you all have an amazing week!! :) If anything exciting or extraordinary happens I'll be sure to blog!! =) Please continue to pray for strength, joy, and enthusiasm to continue on with whatever's around the next corner!!

Till next time!
SH

2009-09-21T21:34:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 40: 28-31

28 Have you not known?
Have you not heard?
The everlasting God, the LORD,
The Creator of the ends of the earth,
Neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is unsearchable.
29 He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength.
30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
And the young men shall utterly fall,
31 But those who wait on the LORD
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.

A passage I was reading today... Verse 30 pretty much sums up what I've felt like these past few weeks! But it's so encouraging to know our God never faints or becomes weary; and to know He can continually provide us with renewing strength if we wait on Him!
Lord, grant that I do not continue to get "caught up" in the business of life, failing to wait on You... Then I too will mount up with wings like eagles, I will RUN and NOT be weary, I will walk and not faint...

2009-09-17T19:42:00.000-07:00

From my computer to yours... :)

2009-09-13T04:24:00.000-07:00

Yea!! We made it through another exam- one more checked off the list (well, if I passed it- it's yet to be known! =P) I like to look back at the previous posts and the compiled list of tasks/tests, and see that the things I wasn't so sure would get done are now complete and history! =)
It's a brand new week,and with it has come a full list of "things to do!" :)On top of the normal assignment (currently working on Newborn complications/pharmacology/lab work)and clinical shifts, tomorrow all the students are going to a ropes course that we had to do when we first came here as well (last years it was just us 1st year students, but this year they want both classes to go- so off we go for some "Outland Adventure")! Tuesday Naomi & Chad (Naomi is a graduated student '09)are coming for a farewell supper as they will be leaving back to Canada at the end of this month, and we have a meeting at the director's house. Friday we will be celebrating the birthday of one the students, Jenna F. It's funny, when Nelly was here she said, "Wow, you do more for birthdays here and than even at home!!" And it's true- we all usually try to make them as special as possible seeing we're all so far away from home! The rule is you have to plan your own, and everyone (anyone who can)will participate- they're usually a blast!! :)
Well- We are getting picked up here in a few minutes for the ropes course...

A song that I heard at church yesterday that encouraged me...

In Christ alone will I glory
For only by His grace
I am redeemed
And only His tender mercy
Could reach beyond my weakness
To my need
Now I seek no greater honor
Than just to know Him more
And to count my gains but losses
And to the glory of my Lord

In Christ alone
I place my trust
And find my glory
In the power of the cross
In every victory
Let it be said of me
My source of strength
My source of hope
Is Christ alone

Till next time!!

-SH

A few shots at our market here (during Nell's visit)

2009-09-06T05:19:00.000-07:00

Happy labor day weekend!

2009-09-06T04:57:00.000-07:00

Good day!! Presently my body's a little confused as to what time of day it is- night shift always does that to me! :) I slept till this afternoon after coming back from shift, and now I'm wondering how I'll get to sleep tonight with having day shift tomorrow morning! Somehow, our amazing bodies put up with the confusion and play along! ;)
Friday we handed in our assignment- which we were all very ready to kiss goodbye- and wrote the exam! We now have another huge exam to look forward to on Wednesday that we just found out about on Friday! Praying to God that He will provide both the wisdom and time to study! :)
Last night on shift I had a patient I had to transport due to fetal bradycardia (low heart tones)! :( It was very sad, and she was such a sweet girl! When we got back from the hospital, a taxi pulled up with another patient...who I also had to transport due to complications! :( Sad night! But when I came back there were two other births- one I missed on the transport, and the other I assisted for.
Well, I'm trying to think of anything else I could update you with- but not much is coming to mind! I guess our life here now is keeping us pretty occupied with studies and clinic as usual!
Wishing you all an amazing long weekend over there in the beautiful homeland!
Please pray for my exam this week if you think of it! ;)

-Sarah

A New Look! :)

2009-08-26T05:40:00.000-07:00

Good day! :) As you see, I gave my blog a new look for the new year here at Newlife! :)In many ways it's been excited starting our second and final year here in Philippines! There's much to learn this year, but it's so neat to see how much the Lord has taught our class this past year!! Our responsibilities have definitely increased, and it's been very good for us! It some ways I get nervous inside thinking that this year I need to finish learning everything for the final board exam (NARM) next August! It's something I've already had to start giving over to the Lord! :) One day at a time... And trust Him for the wisdom and understanding!
This month has been busy in the birth room with deliveries- In three weeks I delivered 7 babies! Since being back, my class all got an extra shift each week for this year... It's taking some time to get use to not having that extra time for studying! We were given a crazy assignment this month, which none of us could see finishing on the deadline with all that's happened(new students, extra shifts etc), so we asked for our first extension!! And Krys (our director), was kind enough to give it to us!! :D So instead of Monday being the deadline, we get until Friday!! Thank God!!!! Hopefully we won't have ask for any more extension! ;)
Well I think that's all for now! Hope everyone has a delightful weekend!! Keep praying!!
-SH

Pictures of my Visit with Marvin & Marlene's clan back in July

2009-08-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

Some Snapshots of Nelly's Trip Here...

2009-08-16T03:53:00.000-07:00

- Find Waldo :)

`

Hello's and Goodbyes

2009-08-16T03:48:00.000-07:00

Today was a sad day… I took Nelly to the airport and bid her farewell for perhaps yet another year! It feels like there have been so many goodbyes said these days…

So yes- I got to have Nelly here for a few weeks!! It was great having her here, being able to show her around the place and introducing her to my class mates and clinic team! It’s so nice that she could see and get a little taste my life here… She was even able to be there for one of my deliveries! I felt bad that things were so crazy and stressful while she was here… She did very well putting up with me through it! She had to listen to me stress about an crazy assignment that I’ve actually still haven’t come close to finishing (please pray that it will get done on time!!), and get through some busy shifts- delivering four babies in a little over a week!!! Thankfully we were still able to spend some time together!! It was special having some quality sister time since Nelly was gone for much of my time at home in July. We spent a few days cleaning a preparing for the new batch of students that arrived on Wednesday the 12th! Yes, ten new girls have been added to the team here! It was pretty excited meeting them for the first time and knowing that we will spend the next year together! They all seem like very special girls, and I’m looking forward to getting to know them better! It’s funny watching them a the same place I was last year!!
So now it’s definitely assignment confinement! I have some major catching up to do…it’s actually kinda scary! This week I have cooking duty—Bring on the Kraft Dinner! No, don’t worry- I think I can find something healthy and quick to make! 
Well, writing this to you all helped cheer me up some… I’m going to miss everyone, but am always encouraged when keeping in touch!!
Please pray for me, because I know it won’t be my own strength that will keep me going… His strength is perfect, when our strength is gone!

“Till next time…:
Sarah

A few more pictures from home...

2009-08-16T03:10:00.000-07:00

Home again home again!

2009-08-01T23:23:00.000-07:00

- Tim and I -

- Sisters -

-Katelyn & I -

Other pictures from my trip home are from other people's cameras... I'll post an album when I get them! :)

Philippines- Canada - Philippines

2009-08-01T22:33:00.000-07:00

Woah...It's been so long since I've been on here that I almost forgot my password- well okay, maybe it hasn't been that long, but so much has happened in June & July! Heather was getting after me for my absence on here... My excuse was that I was boycotting my computer while I could... :)
The end of June was spent finishing up assignments, final exams, getting ready to go home, and saying goodbye to the graduate class! Boy do I miss those girls already!! I got back from Canada yesterday, and Beth was the only student here (from both classes)! The other students from my class are either on their break in Aug, or they still haven't come back... The '09 girls are all home...:( The place here seemed so empty and different!! There are a whack of interns here now, filling in for the Summer transition! I met one of them before I left, the rest I met only yesterday... It was weird coming into my room with two other ladies there... Life here it's just in a crazy transitional mode!! By the end of Aug the students will have arrived, and the interns will have all left...
"OH CANADA!" Yes! I was back home for the month of July- and had such a GREAT time!!! I was able to see so many people, and still be able to spend quality time with my family!! Time was short though, so unfortunately some visits didn't happen. :( I was able to fly over to see Marv and Marlene and their little clan- so special! I even got to go for a few days up to my aunt's cottage- and felt the most relaxed I've been in a long time! :) I was so happy to come how to see the new little addition to the Heikoop clan- little Katelyn! :) James and Lizzy, you've got one little cute girl to be proud about - I'm pretty proud to be her aunt!! :D Sure going to miss watching here grow up through her first year of adjustments!! All the nieces and nephews had grown up so much!
I felt so spoiled at home!! So many people made my time there so special and fun!! When I arrived at the airport, there were 26 people there to welcome me home with their blow horns and big banner!! :) So special- and never-forgotten memory!
So now after a long but good trip back, I'm here again in the Philippines! Back to craziness, humidity, aunts, and all the good stuff! :)No, it's good to be back... I've just got to get back into things here again! I missed the girls and clinic!! For me the initial "getting back into things" is always the hardest! I miss home, but I'm excited about this year ahead- a once in a life time experience!! Tomorrow I get to go pick up Nelly at the airport!! YIPPY! She's coming to visit me for a few weeks!! So excited- just hoping it won't be so busy and that we'll be able to spend some time together! This week I start back into the studies, and have about 4-5 clinical shifts...
Well, off I go!! :) Prob should start unpacking!!
I just wanted to thank everyone for making my time at home SO special!!!! God is so good!
Sending a big hug...
Sarah

It's Monday here! :)

2009-06-07T16:30:00.000-07:00

Hey there- I just came on my computer this morning to check my e-mail before heading off to clinic when I realized I had forgotten to blog yesterday! Well, I guess it means I don't have really anything important to say...:)
The countdown for me has started... 22 Days!!! Yeehaw!! :P I can't believe home is that close away!!! Things are starting to wrap up here for the second year students. They completed their Final exam last Thursday, and tomorrow will be their graduation! Grad will be at a beach resort this year...Sounds pretty exciting! :)Other than that, not much news going on over here.
I best get going- Today looks like another full day with clinic (till around 1ish), grocery/market run this afternoon (I'm on cooking), and night shift tonight!

Have a fabulous week ahead!!! God bless!

Till next time,
SH

=)

2009-05-31T08:03:00.000-07:00

Greetings! :) It's going to be a short update this week, because-well, quite frankly there's not too much to update you on! It was a pretty typically study-work week! Today I went with Serena to the hospital to visit one of her patients whose baby was sick... It makes me sad every time I walk into that hospital- seeing the condition! This coming Friday we have another exam coming up...The second year students are getting ready for their final exam here on Thursday!
Only four more weeks yet! Wow! :)
Like I said- it's a short update! :P

Have a blessed week ahead!!

Till next time...

SH

Baby Number 25 :)

2009-05-24T03:31:00.000-07:00

Good day! :) Me again here with another little update...
Where do I begin? I guess it's been a pretty normal week- Assignment, shifts, eat, sleep, talk, skype, e-mail etc etc! :D Well, maybe a few things different happened. Tuesday we wrote another exam! Glad that's behind my back- we'll lets hope it is anyways! :) No results yet...
Friday I took my continuity patient to a christian orphanage that takes care of adopting babies... It was rough, but she so well, and the people at the orphanage where so great! It was such a hard thing to do, and my heart felt so heavy! I can't imagine...
Today was a good day! I went to my church this morning, and I hadn't been there for a little while with having to work some Sundays at the clinic as well as visiting some other churches. It was good to see everyone! :) I came back at noon pretty tired... It's been very hot the few days, so the heat has promptly waken me up nice and early every morning no matter what time I got to bed... So I sneaked into the aircon room with one of girls from night shift who was still sleeping (we're only aloud to turn on the aircon for night shifters), and had a nice long nap. I had a baby check though that I missed because nobody knew where I was...:S ooops!
When I got up at 2pm I got a phone call at 2:30 informing me that one of my continuities was in active labor at the clinic! I had just done one of her prenatals on Thursday, and when I discovered that this would be her 9th baby (not including a miscarriage), I had to put my name on her chart!! :D :D
So I jumped into scrubs and flew over to the clinic and delivered her baby an hour later! It was a beautiful birth- my 25th delivery!! :) The 3rd oldest girl in the family was there- so special to watch how excited she was with her new little sister! I managed to get most of the stuff done after birth in a few hours and endorsed her to the girls on shift now... And now I'm sitting here writing this... :) In a few hours I'll be going back for night shift! - lucky I had a nap! :)
Alrighty- I believe I'll sign off for now...
Hope you all have a fabulous week ahead- keeping on the sunny side of life! :)
-Sarah

Baby Boom! =)

2009-05-17T00:24:00.000-07:00

A good day to you all! I'm so thankful it's Sunday- a chance to unwind some! :) Last night I finished and printed off my biggest assignment yet. It's amazing when push comes to shove what can be accomplished! :P I know I couldn't have done with without prayer! We were suppose to do the exam on it Monday afternoon, but we just got an e-mail informing us that it's postponed till Tuesday afternoon! Thank You Lord!! I was wondering how I was going going to do it, having to work night shift tonight and not having studied at all yet! He's so good to me- never failing to meet my every need!
Birth room shifts have also be crazy!! I've delivered a baby at every shift for the last 6 or more shifts in a row. My last shift was absolutely nuts! I walked in at 5:50am to discover four woman in labor, and five more in postpartum (there are usually 4 midwives on each shift including the supervisor). The two other girls took on two patients that were fully dilated and ready to give birth. I had the other two patients that were not as far along, but pretty active, and then another patient came in that I had to check in! I was also charting for Janelle's (another midwife) birth's! It was a good challenge to remember which patient was which! :P Then one of my patients had a fast labor and delivered her baby at 7:45. Right after that, one of the midwifes had to transport two patients (one of them which had just walked in and the other who was my one of my former patients). During that time another labor came in fully! So I caught another baby at 9:09! The rest of the shift was spent with two charts running back and forth between my two patients completing all the charting and after birth procedures! Oh, and I also did my first IV! :):)And was even able to get it in the first time! :D Praise the Lord!
Well there ya have a little bit of what goes on in the birth room- without too many details though! :P :) But it's not always that crazy on shift! :)
It's been rainy here the past few days, making it a little more cool- so nice for sleeping!:)
Anyway, I think I'm going to sign of now!
Keep on keeping on!!
-SH

The "bukid" Mountains

2009-05-10T01:13:00.000-07:00

Outreach 2 for Blog

-Click On Picture-

A Mountain Top Experience

2009-05-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hello hello! I'm back in the city after one beautiful week in the mountains! I came home on Friday afternoon- with many great memories! There was so much to learn and experience! It's like stepping into a completely different world- so much to soak in! Because I had already done one trip in November, most of it was familiar to me, but we went to a few different villages, meeting new people and doing more prenatal and general check ups. I defiantly felt quite incompetent with my medical skills, but seeing as they really even need simple health care teaching, I felt like I was at least able to help in some small ways. It was encouraging too, comparing how I felt last time with doing prenatal in November to this time- a little less clueless! :)
I also really enjoyed getting to know Marygine (the midwife from the area that we traveled with), her husband, and our motor drivers better! Such great people- we had such a great time together! And Naomi, one of the married students, came too- so it was nice getting to know her better as well!
We had a great experience eating Filipino foods (rice rice rice ;)), taking bucket baths at the village well (in our clothes of course:D), singing karaoke with the village people, sleeping on mats in their little huts (well we cheated and brought small blow-up mats! :P), learning the language a bit more, whizzing through the mountain paths on our packed up motorbikes, and just simply getting to know the villagers! :)
Each village we would do prenatal and then any general check-ups over anyone who had a complaint. The first spot we stopped was a house of a 12 year old girl who had club foot. On another trip, one of the students here had met her and taken a picture. Someone in the States saw it and volunteered to sponsor her to get an operation. Apparently,the morning of the day that we went there, they had prayed all together (they are Christians)that the promise would come for their daughter to be healed- that afternoon we showed up to tell them the great news! It was quite an experience! In another village, I was doing general check ups, and they brought me a little 6 year old boy. When he turned his head I saw a big swollen and infected cut across his neck! Nobody had taken care of it- his mother had died, and his step-mother didn't seem be caring much... Plus they don't really know what to do with a problem like that! He was so cute- he held my hand and was willing to sit on my lap! When I had to start cleaning the wound, he starting screaming, and it took three of us to hold him down- poor boy!! :( After I though I was all done, and even told him so, I realized I hadn't given him a tetanus shot! More tears... :( I wanted to take him back home with me so bad...
Yes, it was quite the experience again in the beautiful "bukid" (mountains)! I'm so thankful for the opportunity to go!
Now the week ahead looks piled up with assignment that was put aside for a week and a few exams I missed last week. It's so comforting to be able to cling tightly to the promise that "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength!"
Our little motto here: "Somehow it all gets done..." =)
7 more weeks...(not that I"m counting or anything ;))
Till next time...
SMH

Wow- it's really May!!

2009-05-03T05:22:00.000-07:00

It's confirmed- time flies! :) Or are we just too stubborn to believe that life is short... Knowing where I'm going after this is over, that doesn't make me sad! But there's still so much work left to do in the harvest!!
Last night I was on night shift- and it proved to be quite the shift! I had to transport my first patient :(, and when I came back I had another patient. When I was checking on her, I heard yelling and ran out to find a baby out in a taxi :S :). Soon after that my patient gave birth to a little boy- baby number twenty for me! :) Pretty exciting!!
So I just figured out that I will once again be going on a mission/medical outreach up in the mountains! :):) It's with the same midwife, but we'll probably be going to different villages this time! It was unexpected, as another girl was suppose to go, but since she isn't able to due to one of her patients being in labor, she asked me if I wanted to go instead. I will be going with Naomi, one of the married second year students! We'll leave bright and early in the morning, as we have to catch a bus that will take us a few hours away, where we'll take a Jeepney ride to another city. We have to meet with the Mayor at 8:30am! It's a custom we do, just a courtesy visit to let him know we are in his area! :) We will then take motors to Marygene's house (the midwife), and may spend the night there before heading up a few hours into the mountains. We'll be coming back on Friday... to a piled up work load of school! But it's so worth it!!!! :) :)
Please pray for us...that it wouldn't just be a medical trip, but that we will really be able to share the love of Jesus with them!!
So here I come- fresh mountain air, beautiful villagers, rice fields, and water buffaloes! :)
And goodbye to my computer till Friday! :P

Till next time- God bless!

-Sarah

Psalm 90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

Another day in the life of Sarah Heikoop :)

2009-04-26T07:22:00.000-07:00

Babies Babies Babies
It's getting late, but don't ask me why I waited till now to write on here- Maybe too many exciting things happened today! :) Well, it was just a good Sunday, with some hard stuff mixed in.
This morning I went to a new church (which I thought was in English) and met some very sweet people!!
At noon I had an appointment I scheduled with one of my patients...Which was the hard part! Please, please pray for her- I won't use her name for privacy sake... But she's one scared, young girl with no family, partner, or friends to lean on for support. Her situation is leaving her no option but to adopt her baby that is not yet born, and she needs me to help her through the process. Pray that I can be there for her, showing her Christ's love- something she too would accept!
Tonight, a friend that I met here, Emily (She's Canadian,& married a Filipino) came over! We really had a great visit and time of fellowship! The other week they invited me to their place for supper- so nice to do stuff like that again! :)
Well, I shouldn't keep this long! I think I'm going to head off to bed- Looks like another busy week with cookin and all! :)
Thank you again for your prayers! I couldn't ever thank you all enough for that!

Till next time...
Sarah

Maayong Gapii (good evening)!!! :)

2009-04-19T06:47:00.000-07:00

A big hello from my side of the planet to yours! :) Once again it's Sunday- which means blog time! Except if I'm scheduled on shift on Sundays, this is my day off! No homework, no assignment- it's pretty sweet! I think if I didn't have one day like this I would go crazy! Especially since the whole week long if I'm not at the clinic, I'm in front of this handy-dandy external brain morning, afternoon, and evening! As bad as it may sound, it has become my external brain, and I don't know what I would do without my laptop here! I do all my school on it, I use it to communicate back home, and a lot of favorite music is on here! I'm really grateful for it, despite the times I want to chuck it and never see it again! :)
Okay, enough about my computer! :P This past week has good, but also sad! As most of you already know, my Aunt Dianne went to be with the Lord! It all seems so unreal to me, as if I'm going to go home and she'll still be there...
Over here we got through another exam- praise God! We received two more assignments that look pretty interesting! :) A few of us took of on Friday afternoon for an overnight on the beach! It was so relaxing, and great to get away from the city! It decided to rain that night so I don't know how much sleep we got! :P Even though there are beaches 20 minutes away,I haven't been to any since January! Life's just too crazy and exciting I guess! hehe
Well here comes another week!! Life is so short, I pray that God would allow me to use every minute of for Him!! There's much work to be done!! :)
Take care all!! Have a blessed week- even in the rain we have a lot to smile about!
-Sarah

- Studying at a coffee shop- oh blessed aircon! :)

He is Risen!! :)

2009-04-12T02:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!!! Happy, because it fills us with joy to think of what Christ did for some 2000 years ago! And that He didn't just stay in the grave- but rose again like He promised!! :) :)
"Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He lives, all fear is gone! Because I know, He holds the future, and life is worth the living, just because HE lives!!!"

Well Easter weekend is coming to a close here soon, but back home Sunday is just beginning! It's been a great weekend!! Many of us girls got together Thursday night and Friday night for a little "service" here at the dorm- very sweet time together! Then this morning we had a sunrise service together out on the balcony at 4:30am! :) It was very special, and everything was still quiet here in the city at that time!! Then both dorm houses got together at noon for lunch! So now, everyone's winding down! I think I'll take a small nap before night shift tonight...

I just wanted to thank everyone has been praying for me- these past few weeks have been more or less of a struggle with our studies! I guess its just that time of year, and the assignment seemed so long! But things are looking up a little as this assignment is wrapping up- we'll have to hand it in on Thursday and write the exam. The Lord is seeing us through! :) :)

Enjoy the rest of the weekend and holiday!!!

big hug,
Sarah

A Little Tidbit :)

2009-04-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

Another week just flew by!! I guess that happens when you need every hour in it to accomplish your schedule- sure makes life an interesting challenge- a good one though! :) Especially when remembering His promise: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness!"(2Cor 12:9)
This week has also been an exciting one! We're slowly getting introduced (via the web) to the eleven new students that have been chosen for next year! :) It feels like I was just in their spot! It's neat reading their questions about here, thinking back of when I was asking and wondering the same things! They seem like amazing girls, and I'm definitely looking forward to meeting them and being able to spend a year living and learning together! But it's bitter sweet, thinking at the same time of parting with the graduating girls, who I've gotten to know and love so well! Saying goodbye seems to be large part of life here, and it makes me ache for that day when we'll never have to part again- in that Land where the sun never sets! :)Until then, there's much work to be done for the Lord... So we continue on!!

Missing you all, and would especially love to be home with Marlene and Marv being in Ontario!! Hoping they'll all have a great week together!!

Take care!!
Keep on keeping on!
Sarah

more pictures... :)

2009-03-29T18:11:00.001-07:00

Hope everyone had a good weekend- refreshed for a brand new week!
I'm off with a friend to study all day, but thought I'd quickly post some pictures we just got taken last week of our class! We had so much fun doing it together! Below I posted the link to the album of the results from the photo shoot!

take care!!! God bless!!

Have a great Week!!!

-Sarah

Class of 2010

2009-03-29T18:06:00.001-07:00

From - Click of photo to see more -

2009-03-22T04:06:00.002-07:00

- My desk -

Another Day...

2009-03-22T03:32:00.000-07:00

"Click, click, click" It's the sound I hear every night as I switch the wall-fan onto full bast before climbing up into my bunk bed! I think I would go crazy without fans here, or at least experience some serious lack of sleep! I'm kinda curious as to what I'll think of the warm, Ontario weather in July! One of the second years students from Canada send she wore sweaters for her whole month off last July- somethings telling me I'll simply enjoy it! :) It's beautiful now, as the sun has already set and the temperature has dropped some! The sun always sets here between 6-6:30.
Friday we wrote another exam...It's pretty funny to see everyone in our house getting prepped up for it! And then there's the beautiful feeling of finishing it! We had an extra day off- tomorrow we start are new assignment on postpartum care! Tonight I'm on night shift, and wondering what's going to happen. It's always a mystery, you just never know who or what's going to walk through those clinic doors, or what you'll be endorsed when starting shift!! Sure makes things interesting!
Yesterday we took advantage of the day off and went and got our class picture taken!! It was a blast- I'll have to post some when we get them! :)

Take care y'all - No I'm not being influenced by Americans! ;)
Till next time! ;) God Bless

1 Thes 5:24 "Faithful is he who calls you, who will also do it."

2009-03-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

Class of '09 and '10 (except Tammy :( I think she was catching a baby :))
Right-Left, Top-bottom
Bethany W, Julie, Janelle, Jordan, Ali, Kinshasa, Bri, Holly, Serena, Beth, Jen
Michelle, Jes, Niaomi, Steph, Bethany S, Sarah M, me,
Joy, Kendra, Medea, Joanna (not a student- Joy's sis), and Bea!

2009-03-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

It’s a beautiful sunny morning, and the air is becoming increasingly warm and humid. This morning at 7:11am I delivered a beautiful little boy. His mother had come in fully, just minutes before “baby out!” Unfortunately there were a number of complications that required transporting the baby and mother to the hospital. It all happened so fast, and within less than two hours I was back at the clinic- trying to grasp what all just took place! Another baby in this world- anther miracle!
This past week flew by, with careful attempts to maximize each moment. It was cooking week again, this time with Brianna and Kinshasa. I thoroughly enjoyed it; however, it can get a little tricky with timing around shifts and studying.
Oh yeah…some headline news! I took my on my first continuity of care! That simply means I put my name on her chart, and instead of getting whatever midwife is at shift, they will call me in. So Lord willing I will be completing her total care (under a supervisor of course). Hers is a sad story though –she is very young, her partner has left her alone, and she is now living with friends. I pray that she would experience God’s love, and that I would allow Him to use me as a channel!
For the rest, things are going well… becoming more and more acquainted with this beautiful country and people! There’s so much to learn!
Hope all is well in your corner of the earth! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being able to keep in touch, and wish it could be more so... But know that I hold so many of you close to my thoughts and prayers!
“Till next time!”
-Sarah or with Filipino accent SARRah :)

A quick good night

2009-03-01T08:09:00.000-08:00

Hello hello!! I'm off to bed now, but just finished posting a few pictures of when Diane and Tim were here back in January!
Things are continuing to go well! We just finished a few more classes and starting a few new ones. One of the supervisors went back to the States so we had a goodbye party for her yesterday! It's always sad to see people go, and sometimes it feels like it happens too much around here! You just get to know someone and they have to leave again!
Sending a big hug- missing you all!
Good night/good day whatever!:)
-Sarah

Diane & Tim's Visit During New Years!!

2009-03-01T07:53:00.000-08:00

-Click on Picture-

Big Birthday Bash

2009-02-22T05:58:00.000-08:00

A Big thank you to everyone who sent birthday messages and cards, making my b-day here in the Philippines so special!! The girls here were so great... I felt very much loved and blessed!!! It was my first "hot" birthday, so it took some convincing in my head that I really had gotten a year older! Hey, no winter means no birthday! :)
The girls made a special supper, and two of them, Kendra and Bethany, made a triple layer chocolate cake! Wow! What a treat and a half! In the evening a group of 15 of us went bowling, and really had a blast!! Kinda felt like we were home! :) I had night shift, but no, I didn't deliver any babies on my birthday! hehe...
Okay, I'm going to post a few pictures from my birthday bash and then head off to bed. Tomorrow I have day shift and then classes! This week we have our final exams for both Statistics and Microbiology. If you think of it please pray that it will go well! :)

Sending warm greetings your way! :)
-Sarah

Hello- from my computer to yours! :)

2009-02-14T22:43:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting outside (under shade =))sipping a cold glass of ice tea all set to blog.:) Lately I've been writing only small posts, not only because time comes at a high price here, but also because I'm sure it's the same for you! :) So for both of our sakes I'll keep them simple. Then I'll be able to post more frequently- here's hoping! :)
So, it's been another good, full packed week! I was on cooking again, and its good to have that over with as much as I love being in the kitchen. Well- maybe not so much this kitchen- haha, ask the other girls, I get a little frustrated with the lack of cleanliness and the ant population! :S I guess what can you expect with 14 girls in one house...I would hate to see a house with 14 guys! :)
Clinical shifts have been going well, but a little less busy this past month. I've been mostly labor watching etc.
It certain ways it's hard to believe I've been here for already 6 months!! Sometimes times crawls and sometimes it flies! Over all it's been going really well! I've been so blessed with the friendships here as well as all of you that have been able to keep in touch! It means a lot!
Here are a few pictures of a shift this week. Julie (with back shift, Janelle is the other girl) had her 30th B-day, so she brought over some leftover cake to those of us who were on shift! mmmm The two ladies in blue,Susan and Elsa, are midwives/supervisors here at the clinic! They're so great- I sure love them!!

Another day, another baby...=)

2009-02-02T04:53:00.000-08:00

Hey! Me again with a little update of things over here in Asia! :)Taking a little break from my microbiology assignment!
I'm a little sleepy as I write this- it's been another full day! I was on day shift this morning, and being first up I was endorsed a woman who was in labor. At 9:36 I delivered her baby boy-Mike! :)While I was so her immediate postpartum checks two other women (who had just come in) both delivered their babies minutes apart! It turned out to be a very crazy shift,going from charting to assisting and then back to my own patient! All three women were having complications, but praise the Lord all went well!! I guess you just never know what you're going to expect when you walk into the clinic doors! :)I had just enough time to complete what I had to before shift change and then off to class! No, life is never boring here! They keep you hopping, and sometimes you just have to hang on tight and enjoy the speed! :)It's exciting, I am definitely privileged to be apart of God's work here!
I think of you all often! and miss you even more!
God bless!!! Keep on keeping on!!
-Sarah

Hello hello!

2009-01-25T01:09:00.000-08:00

Wow! It's been already a week ago since I posted in here, and I'm trying to wrap my mind around how fast this week has gone!! It's been a good week, somewhat mind stretching with math classes and a final exam for our herb course. Next week we will be finishing up the math course and starting microbiology. Then in the beginning of February we pick up statistics and counseling along with the microbiology. So our course schedule is unlike most schools...I guess we attempt to pack in as much as possible!:)
The work at the clinic continues to go well! The shift I worked yesterday was very busy with five births in one morning! The little bundle I delivered was named James- so neat! The last girl I delivered was named Murphy! :) Oh the names you get to hear when working in the clinic! :)
I'm going to cut this one short- I picked up a cold yesterday and it feels as though my head might explode! Our little remedy for colds around here is to eat a few garlic cloves- as long as we don't do it before shift! :)
Take care and have a great week ahead!!!
sending a big e-hug!
Sarah

Moutain Outreach Pictures

2009-01-18T05:28:00.000-08:00

- Click on Photo -

2009 Has arrived and on its way....:)

2009-01-18T04:35:00.000-08:00

A Belated to New Year!1 Sorry it's been so long! My big to-do list for Christmas break got left out of my schedule with the craziness that Christmas brought! I had big plans of catching up on e-mails and blogging, and I also discovered that I shouldn't promise to post pictures anymore...oops! But I do have an album ready to post, I'm just waiting for it to download. It's of the Mountain Outreach I went on awhile back.
I feel that it's been so long, and there's so much to tell you about. Instead of boring you with a long post, maybe I'll space it out.
So, 2009 has arrived and I was extremely blessed to have Diane and Tim here to open up the New Year with! They arrived on December 26th, and so I went to Manila to meet them. We spent a few days there with some friends (Tim & Michelle) before flying back to Davao to see my home here! They spent two weeks here in the Philippines, and Tim and Michelle also came for a week, so the five of us had a great time together! I felt so spoiled to have so many friends and family here- I enjoyed every minute of it!! We got lots of sun with snorkeling and site seeing around Davao. It was such a special time! Diane and Michelle came to one of my birth-room shifts and were able to witness three births! It was very sad to see them leave, and I felt like jumping on the plane with them! This past week as been pretty busy trying to catch up on school, and I also happened to be on cooking duty. It was a good week, although a little difficult getting back into things! :)
okay, I'm going to go ahead and post those pictures.
Take care all! Thank you so much for your support through prayers, letters and e-mails! I am blessed!!
Sending a big hug!
Sarah

Maayong Pasko-Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-24T18:22:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS one and all! :)We are a little ahead in time here, so Christmas is almost half over before it's even started back home!
For me here Christmas couldn't have started off better! I was on night shift from 10pm till 6am this morning. At 12:30 a woman in labor walked in and I was the next one up... At 5:42 I delivered her baby- On Christmas day!! She gave birth to a beautiful little boy who as of yet does not have a name.:) What a special way to start Christmas! I ended up working a little later to finish up things with the birth, and then when I came home we had a Christmas gift exchange and the girls opened up their packages that they got in the mail. Tomorrow is the big day when Diane and Tim arrive!! WOW!! I still can't believe I'm going to see them both!! I'm beside myself with excitement!! I am so blessed!!
This year is my first Christmas away from home and also my first warm one! It can be a little difficult when I start thinking about Christmas back home, so I try not to! I have so much to be thankful for...the girls here are great and have made this time of year so special! And being able to look forward to Diane and Tim's visit has made a big difference! I'm flying to Manila to meet them and spend a few days there with some friends! Very exciting!!
It feels so great to have finished the first part of school...Next semester will be a little longer since it goes till June. I'm so grateful for everything the Lord has taught me since I have arrived- truly a GREAT learning experience!
It's almost noon now and we are having our Christmas dinner at 4:00 so I better get some sleep since I was on night shift.
I miss you all like crazy!! Sending a BIG Christmas hug!!!
Enjoy the celebration of a very special birth- the birthday of our King!
Much love...
Sarah

A diminutive update! :)

2008-12-13T21:40:00.000-08:00

Oh no...It's been 2 weeks since I've written on here...I'm slipping! :S :) I just wanted to write a quick 5 min update, since I'm scheduled for shift in 10 min!
Just wanted to let everyone know things are going well. This week is the crunch week with our assignments due and our semester exam on Friday! But then we have 2 weeks off for Christmas!!! Yea!! We will still be working in the clinic, but get to take a break from the books! :):):) I sure can't wait...
So one more week! I'll update you more as soon this week has passed, and then try to get some pictures up too...
Okay off to work! take care, and God bless!!!
-Sarah

Mountain Outreach

2008-11-30T01:10:00.000-08:00

November has already come to a close, but I think winter has forgotten about us here in the Philippines… It’s weird to think of people back home bundled up in their sweaters as I sit here in front of a fan seeking relief from the heat that persists all year round here. Oh I miss the snow and cold! :)
As many of you may already know, this past week I took an outreach trip up into the mountains a few hours away. What a wonderful experience, and in many ways if felt like I was stepping into my favorite missionary book! We (myself and four other girls) left Monday morning and took a 1 ½ hour bus ride to outside the city, where we caught a jeepney that took us another hour out to other town where we met Mary-Jane (a midwife for a large area in the mountains). We then took two motorbikes up to the little village where Mary-Jane and her husband Juene live…It was my first glimpse of the country-side and wow was I in a different world! It was pouring rain as we spend along on the motorbikes through groves of banana trees, rice fields, passing water buffalos, chickens and random pigs. When we got to their little village, it really was a true village you would picture in your head with small tribal huts/shacks. We ate lunch there and headed out again on the motorbikes to her health center that was around another 1-2 hours up in the mountains where we spent two nights. Thankfully our two motorist where excellent drivers, as the paths through the mountains would get sometimes crazy! The scenery was beautiful with valleys and moutains of palm trees, and we traveled through many tiny villages along the way. I don’t think we got through too many villages without hearing people yell “gwapa (beautiful) Americans” or “hi Joe!”:) That night we slept at the health center. It was amazing being in a world where people still cook on fires, pump their water, sleep under mosquito nets on mats on the floor, take bucket showers, and eat rice every meal (that's their diet in the city as well)! The next day we headed out again to another village where we set up in the village center to do prenatals and general physical exams (one of the students is a nurse). It didn’t take long for nearly the whole village to gather around. We started off with a nutrition teaching that Mary-Jane interpreted. We than began to do the check ups, and after all the prenatals were done I began taking peoples blood-pressure (they love getting their BP taken!) I think by the time the day was over I had taken the entire village’s blood pressure- haha! They were so great though and kept feeding us all day with different fruits, rice and fish! I had brought some bubbles for the kids and it was so funny to watch them go wild trying to catch them! When it was time to leave, we had nearly the whole village waving us goodbye! What an experience! The next day we packed up early and traveled back down to Mary Jane’s house. We then picked up three kids and with the eleven of us (six on the motorbike I was on and five on the other one) took another two-hour trip to a beautiful waterfall where we relaxed for the day! It was amazing- nonetheless we where pretty sore after our 2 hour trip back. The next day (Thursday) we stayed at the house and a number of pregnant women came for prenatals as well as other people for general check-ups. We left Friday morning to come back to the city, but had to stop first in the town to pay a courtesy call at the mayor’s office. The chief police also wanted us to come to the station, which we where actually suppose go when we first arrived. The just wanted our identification I guess for our protection
So that was my little trip away from the city! I was so thankful that we were able to enjoy some rest and fresh-mountain air! God is good…and I only pray that we were able to be at least somewhat of a help and encouragement there!
I’ll try to post some pictures ASAP… Things are a little crazy now! I’m very behind in my studies, and would greatly appreciate your prayers for strength and diligence to finish everything on time! And that I wouldn’t feel overwhelmed and stressed in the meantime!
Must be off… Thank you all for your encouragement and prayers!!

Sarah

Quick update on the craziness :)

2008-11-23T07:15:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone- This post will have to be quick as it's getting pretty late!
I just wanted everyone to know that I've haven't forgotten you all! It's just been a crazy crazy week! I'm finding myself very behind on things- but that's okay... Somehow, this too shall pass! :)
I wanted to let you know as well that I'll be leaving tomorrow on a 5 day outreach up in the mountains! I'm very excited, and can't wait to tell you about it all when I come back!!
Better be off to bed! We (me and three other girls- Beth, Bea, Janelle, and a midwife from here in Davao ) will be leaving at 6:00am. :0)

So I'm sorry to all those that I haven't been able to get back to! I haven't forgotten any of you!!!

Take care!! and God bless!

-Sarah

Nov 13- My first handle!!! =)

2008-11-14T04:48:00.000-08:00

Wow! Yesterday was the day I've been dreaming about, but never thought would actually come. I caught my first baby!! It was beautiful...amazing...unforgettable!
When I walked into clinic at 2:00 pm for my shift I knew I was in for a crazy one! Four births had just taken place within 5 hours and six other women were in labor! After endorsements I was handed a chart- ahhh...my first handle! I had completed all my assists and was ready to start handling. Things were so chaotic I didn't have time to second guess myself! My patients name was Bing (her nickname-real name is too hard to pronounce!:)) who was 35 years old, fourth child. She was such a cute woman, and I was really blessed to have her for my first handle. She did really well, except for having bad back labor! Her husband was great, and he and I took turns massaging her back. I also got her to try different positions which seemed to help somewhat. Because it was so crazy at the clinic I ended up assisting and charting for two other births in between time. At 5:59 she starting pushing, and thankfully I had my gloves on as the baby came out at 6:27. It all seemed so unreal yet so normal as I grasped the little slippery baby into my hands. At first she didn't breath but after some suctioning she gave our her first little cry. Praise the Lord she made it into this world safe and sound! Afterwards I was kept busy doing frequent vital checks on the mother, filling out the paperwork, completing the baby bath and exam, and moving them to the postpartum room before my sift ended at 10:00. I love that I get to see them again as I am responsible for doing the baby check-ups during the next six weeks!
So there ya have it! My first handle experience in a nut shell- What an amazing birth and experience! I just feels so good to actually get to this stage... I love being a midwife! :) I just can't believe I already get to handle (under supervision of course!:)) God is good!
I couldn't wait to tell you all about it- definitely a milestone of my training here!So I'm sorry I didn't have time to write it all out in a good story form! :P

Well I think I'm going to head off to bed soon. I'm a little brain dead as I work again today and wrote another exam this afternoon! Phew... But I do get tomorrow off! So excited!
Good night all!!
Sarah
"An official baby-catcher!" :)

Picture I took tonight of our street in the rain

2008-11-11T06:25:00.000-08:00

The top picture I caught during a flash of lightning

Injection class a few weeks back

2008-11-01T23:34:00.000-07:00

-Click on Photo

No-name title :)

2008-11-01T22:37:00.000-07:00

Wow! Has it already been a week since I last wrote in here?!! I guess times flies when you're fighting for it! :)It's definitely been one of those weeks... Tomorrow is my A&P exam, so if ya think of it please pray it will go well! :P

This weekend was All Saints Day-a very busy holiday here! But they really have their own twist to how they celebrate it. Starting yesterday (Saturday) the graveyards get decorated with flowers, balloons etc, and everyone flocks to the cemeteries and spends all weekend (including the night) holding a big festival there with their dead. It's definitely a different way of having All Saints Day!! Yet it brings out two very integrated parts of the Filipino culture. Firstly their love to celebrate and hold festivals, and secondly their concept of death- a very normal part of life!

Well, I've been sitting here now for a few minutes trying to think of what else I could write that would be of any interest....Sorry, nothing is coming to mind. So I guess I'll just sign off and catch you another time! Just to let you know I'm still alive and doing well! Thank you to all who keep me posted!! =)
Thinking about you all...
And quoting my dear brother Ben,
"Cheers!" :)
p.s. Time doesn't change here, so now I'm 13 hours ahead

My Orange Dorm

2008-10-26T06:54:00.000-07:00

My Dorm">
-Click on Photo-

Are ants a good source of protein?

2008-10-26T03:47:00.000-07:00

Good day!! Me again here with a little update on how things are going. It's Sunday evening here, and I've enjoyed a restful day off after a great but crazy week!
First of all I better explain my strange title!:) One aspect of life here that I'm still trying to get use to is the ant population...they are everywhere! They get in my computer, march in lines across my bedroom walls, and invade the kitchen! I learned the hard way that leaving food out any time will quickly attract an army of ants!:( I had packed a tuna sandwich one day for my lunch at the clinic and forgot to put it in the fridge,so while I was eating I kept feeling ants crawling up my arms. After taking a closer look at my half eating sandwich I realize it was completely infested with ants! UGH!! The other girls tried to comfort me by claiming that it was simply extra protein- I still was not impressed!
So yes, this week has been crazy but good! I'm enjoying the Anatomy & Physiology class, but since it's packed into two weeks it feels as though there is barely enough time to download the info, let alone process it! :0 Tomorrow is the midterm exam, and its something I've really had to give over to the Lord as I feel so unprepared! Ask Janelle who sits beside me...She gets after me when I start stressing! haha She's a good girl! ;)
Great news! I did my first two assists yesterday on my shift!! The steps go from first observing, then charting, then assisting, then actually handling! :) So I'm getting there! Assisting involves being the second caregiver during the birth. During a birth there should be at least two midwives-one who is primary responsible and who catches the baby, and the second who assists and is responsible for the baby after it is born. I thoroughly enjoyed it!! It's so amazing to actually be right involved during the birth! Both were good births, although the second was a little more complicated as the baby needed deep suctioning.
Needless to say, it was my best shift yet! :)
Okay, I promised pictures and they finished downloading so I'll go ahead a post some.
I miss you all, but am thankful for the communication we can still enjoy!! I'm glad I don't live in the time period where leaving home meant also leaving all forms of communication!
Have a great week!! Much love to you all! :O)

A belated "Happy Thanksgiving!"

2008-10-19T02:08:00.000-07:00

It’s mid October and by now the leaves on the trees back home are decorated in bright autumn colors. I’m waiting for that to happen here, but for some reason I don’t think the palm trees are going to turn orange! I check the weather network online and watch the temperature at home slowly drop while the climate of Davao City keeps a consistently hot temperature. It doesn’t change much throughout the year, usually hanging around 34 degrees. I miss my favorite season, but I’ll value it all the more when I get to experience it again! Until then I will appreciate what the closeness of the equator has to offer! For instance now, as I’m sitting here outside writing this, the neighbor is attempting to pick a coconut from his tree with a long net…oh he got it!:)
Talking about the fall- Happy belated Thanksgiving!! It was almost easy to forget as the American students and staff don’t celebrate it until November, and the Filipinos don’t celebrate it at all. It’s pretty sad to already hear Christmas music in the mall! Some of the girls bought a little chicken, sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce, so we had a little Thanksgiving dinner Sunday night!! We have so much to be thankful for! Being a child of God’s, I have everything! I am so rich in Christ!! Just seeing where and how the Lord has brought me to today, and being here in this whole life-changing experience- it’s amazing!
Okay, I have a small confession to make…It’s actually kind of embarrassing! I didn’t even know about the Canadian elections! Ahh…can’t believe I’m admitting this on my blog! I guess it’s part of being in a different world- although William reminded me how easy it is- “Sarah, www.globalnews.com!” Oh dear! But I did hear about the Stock market crash, so I’m not totally out of the loop…:)
Oh, I hope this post wasn’t too boring! I didn’t put a whole lot of news. If you wanted it to be thrilling I could detail a birth story! haha No…I better not!
Okay, time to sign off! I’ll keep you better posted when I’m more in the mood for writing! Next on the agenda here is an intense two-week Anatomy & Physiology course. I’m looking forward to it!
Enjoy the rest of your weekend!!
SMH
P.s I’m hoping to post pictures ASAP! :)

The Lord gives and takes away, blessed be His name

2008-10-12T05:52:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how long this post is going to be. My mind seems so full and my fingers are desperately attempting to keep up with everything that wants to come out all at once. This weekend has brought me face to face with the stark reality of death in a way I had never experienced before. I want to share it with you not only because my need to write it out, but also because it is another experience that the Lord is using to teach me many things.
I had promised a girl at church that I would go to their young peoples Saturday night, which was meeting at Faith Academy (a Christian school) with a few other youth groups. None of the girls here were able to go, so I took a motorbike ride there, and after finally finding it I was able to spend a good evening with the young people there. My friend wasn't able to make it, but I had a good time with the others and the missionary couple from my church who were heading the event. It was weird being the only white person (besides the missionary couple) out of more than 50 young people, and probably one of the tallest!:) I played volleyball with them, and it was funny every time I went to serve they started cheering for Canada. I'm sorry if I gave the impression that Canadians are awful volley ball player! :)
Anyways, at 9:00 we all piled into vans and jeepneys, some of us going back to the church where some of them live, or at least near by. I was going to catch a jeepney ride from there. I hopped into a van and Shelly-May, a sweet 9 year old girl came and snuggled beside me. She is so adorable, chatting away in Visayon and giving me hugs every Sunday. Her and her mother are very poor and live at the church. Her Dad left them a long time ago, and she is Zanida's only child. When we got to the church everyone jumped out and the Dottie (missionary lady) rushed inside the church with a few others and shut the door. Everyone seemed distressed, but I couldn't understand what they were saying. Suddenly Shelly-May burst into tears and someone quickly took her down the street. Finally someone was able to explain to me that Zanida, Shelly-May's mom had died. I couldn't believe it, and as I stood outside in the midst of the confusion I didn't know what to do. Zanida was such a sweet little lady, and I still remember she was one of the first I met as her job was to take attendants at the door. Last Sunday I remember giving her a hug and asking her how she was doing. In her broken English she told me she wasn't feeling so good. She than hugged Shelly-May and proudly announced that this was her daughter. She wasn't a healthy looking woman, probably due to her poverty. She looked about 55 but I learned she was only 33. Still not knowing what to do I was about to go home, but for some reason I asked one of the guys standing there if I could go in. After reassuring him I would be okay, he took me inside. Dottie and a small group of people were standing around Zanida who was still laying where she had fallen and taken her last breath. Dottie and I hugged for a long time, and than stood there waiting for the police who were taking forever. Suddenly there was knocking on the door; it was Shelly-May sobbing for her mom. We let her in, and it crushed my heart as I watched her wailing and calling for her mother as she stooped over to kiss her cold body. I closed my eyes to pray but I couldn't. I was so confused- Why had He taken the only person/thing Shelly-May had left. My feelings were so mixed up, for as I looked around the little pitiful room they called home I was praising the Lord that He had taken her from literal rags to Eternal riches- to be in His presence where this is fullness of joy. But as I watched Shelly-May my heart cried out for her. I was than able to pray, bringing this little girl before the Lord.
Finally the police came and I had yet to prepare myself for another shock. Their lack of respect boggled me as I watched them treat the situation as if death was nothing. I've learned and am learning that death for the Filipino's is very much part of life, and they deal with it so differently than we do. At 10:00 I left, after knowing that Dottie was taking Shelly-May home. When I got back I broke down again as I told the girls what had happened. A number of us had a beautiful time of prayer together, and one of the girls graciously offered to take my shift that I was suppose to work Sunday morning so I could go to Church with Kinshasa (one of my roommates). It was weird going to the service as though it was like any other Sunday, and once again I had to remind myself how the Filipino's deal with death. I was relieved to hear that five of the young girls from the church had spent the night with her. But Sunday morning she was sitting in church sweetly smiling and singing the songs. I just had to stand there, shake my head and thank God for His love and protection over her. Her Grandma lives a few hours away, but Shelly-May is determined she doesn't want to leave the church. Two families are praying about taking her in- the Lord is providing! At nine years old, she still has a long, hard road ahead of her and we need to keep her in our prayers!
I've definitely been learning a lot about the realities of life in ways I would never have imagined! God has a purpose, and He knows what we need to learn and how- we just need to trust Him.
Saturday was a day I'll never forget. In the morning I was able to witness a birth, and in the evening a death-the end of life here. But for Zanida, who had experienced a second birth, this is only the beginning- she has reached her eternal home. And one day those of us who have also accepted the precious gift of eternal life will be there in that beautiful country where the Sun never sets, and where we will never again have to be apart! I can't wait!
Until then-
We also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Heb 12:1-2
-Sarah

The Unknown Morrow

2008-10-08T04:06:00.000-07:00

Just before I left for here, dear friends of mine, Mr & Mrs Coffey, gave me a slip of paper to put in my Bible with the words to an old hymn entitled "The Unknown Morrow." The words are so powerful and so meaningful,and I cling its promises every day. It has been such a tremendous encouragement to me as I've read, reread and memorized it...sometimes in tears, sometimes out of joy! So now I thought I'd share it with you- a special promise for tomorrow!

Child of my love, fear not the unknown morrow,
Dread not the new demand life makes of thee;
Thy lack of knowledge holds no cause for sorrow
Since what thou knowest not is known of Me.

Thou canst not see today the hidden meaning
Of my command, but thou the light shall gain;
Walk on in faith, upon My promise leaning,
And as thou goest, all shall be made plain.

One step thou seest -- then go forward boldly,
One step is far enough for faith to see;
Take that, and thy next duty shall be told thee,
For STEP BY STEP thy Lord is leading thee.

Stand not in fear thy adversaries counting,
Dare every peril, save to disobey;
Thou shalt march on, all obstacles surmounting,
for I the Strong, WILL OPEN UP THE WAY.

Wherefore go gladly to the task assigned thee,
Having my promise, needing nothing more
Than just to know, wher'er the future find thee,
In all thy journeying I go BEFORE.

-Thank you Mr & Mrs Coffey! :)

This is the day that the Lord has made....

2008-10-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

For some reason, although updating my blog was at the top of my to-do list, I'm writing this at 10-11 PM. Maybe I should invest in hiring someone to manage my time...haha! Actually, today was a good day of rest! Sundays are my day to completely block out any assignment work from my mind, so apart from having to work a shift every few Sundays (babies are born on Sunday too! :)), this is my day off! I usually start if off with a new traditional treat-pancakes or french-toast for breakfast! mmm! And then usually at 8:45 (Filipino time ;)) I head catch a Jeepney down the road that takes me a minute away from the church I've been attending- the one I've written about. The service "starts" at 9 and goes till 11:30-12. So far different girls have come with me, and two of them -Kinshasa and Beatrice-are considering making it their home church here as well. We'll see! It would be exciting to have them come as well! So, I believe this is the Church the Lord has called be to become apart of while I am here. I really haven't been to any others...every week I feel the urge to go back. Maybe in the future I'll visit some of the other churches in the city.
The rest of my Sunday afternoon is then usually spent catching up on e-mails and cards.
Oh, I have good news-great news actually! I passed my first assignment! Praise the Lord!!! I was very pleased & excited!! I just got it back this evening, so I'm still on cloud 10- I upped it one cloud! :) Gives me encouragement for this next assignment I'm working on! I also started charting at the clinic! One step up! :)
I can't forget the big news- actually I missed the whole event. I came home from being gone for a few hours and a bunch of people were on our street and I could see a lot of water on the road just going around the bend. It turns out there was a huge fire that burned down five houses just down our street!! The fire was completely out by the time I arrived. Apparently the girls here were some of the first to see and ran over to help the home owners throw their belongings that they were able to save from the fire onto the street! So five families are without a home!! And the little shacks they had to begin with were really not much of a home! Please pray that they will find help, and that we would know what to do to help them!
Well, I think I'll call it a day, and you can continue on with yours! :)
God bless!
Sarah

Making it through the first few tests of many to come! :)

2008-09-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

My computer screen is becoming blurry as I write this, and it makes me wonder why I'm still on this thing! I'm feeling a little exausted after a busy and crazy day, so if you can't make sense of some parts of this post you'll know why.
Today started off with clinical shift (prenatals) from 7:45-11:30-12ish. I've started preforming the prenatal exams myself, but I still have a lot to learn with doing them!! I guess it all takes time and experience...
After shift I ran home to do some last minute studying for our first major assignemnt test and to pick up my assignment that was due.
At 1:00 was back at the clinic to do the test...We won't receive any marks for a few weeks. Under 80% is a failing grade, so I better have gotten higher than that since the idea is to pass! :)I've been reminding myself all week of the vs in Philippines 4: I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength! It's a promise so easily forgotten.
After that was over, I came back here again for an hour to study Visayon for a test we had at 3:15.
Rushed back to the clinic a few minutes early to join in on a pizza party the Filipino staff were having! So fun to see them all together as they sure love to laugh!!!
So...I've got the first assignment/test over with (if I passed! :))I felt very free, relieved and just plain thrilled to have that all over with!!! Praise God for getting me through the first one!
Okay, this has taking me far longer than noramal to write, so I'll just sign of here and catch you all another day sooon. Tomorrow I have day shift starting at 6:00 so it bright and early!
Till next time!!