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Ninelle's Heart by Elliot Tenpenny

Ninelle's story began a few years ago. She suffers from a disease we have addressed before, rheumatic heart disease. This disease effects many throughout Africa and while preventable, is silent until it is far too late. While Ninelle was growing up, sleeping in close quarters with many of her brothers and sisters, she most likely contracted an infection multiple times without knowing it. This infection lead to the silent destruction of her heart valves. With this disease the blood can not be pumped throughout the body. The person slowly has the feeling of drowning to death from the backup of blood and fluid in their lungs. Unless something is done each person inevitably dies from heart and lung failure, often at a very young age.

At 27 years old Ninelle has already lived far longer then many people who suffer from this disease. Also, in testament to her strength during this time she has given birth to three children. The last child, birthed through a huge work medically and surgically by Dr Laura Foudy. Never the less, over the years Ninelle has continued to develop a progressively worse ability to breath. Since my arrival here she has been in and out of the hospital and often can barely breath. Her family are one of the more supportive in the area. Her grandfather is the retired pastor with the sight problem we were able to give an audio bible earlier this year. The family has been caring for her around the clock for the last few months.  Read the rest of Ninelle's story here

Erik and Kara Scharrer worked for a short time in Impfondo while we were in the States.  Their trip was featured on Samaritan's Purse this month.


“Two years ago, we were unsure if Erik would ever be able to practice medicine in the same way again,” Kara said. “God taught us patience, trust, and healing. He taught us His timing, His will, and His answers. Erik’s recovery and return to work a year ago was such a blessing and a gift. Now it’s time to use this gift that God has granted him and help others who aren’t so fortunate.”

As God’s plan unfolded, Erik and Kara found themselves traveling to the Republic of Congo to serve for 18 days at Pioneer Mission Hospital through World Medical Mission, the medical arm of Samaritan’s Purse. It didn’t take long for them to see why the Holy Spirit drew them to Africa.

“I have fallen in love with this culture, with these people, and this hospital,” Kara said. “I find myself awake before necessary in the morning, eager to start the day and see what lies ahead. I long to know about the patients, their families, the hospital, the town, and the missionaries. I love watching my husband in his element, and I am so thankful for the gift God has given to him to practice medicine and save lives. Amazing!”

Erik and Kara were welcomed by the hospital staff. Kara joined the physicians on rounds and served as a childbirth attendant, while Erik treated patients and assisted with surgeries.  {Read more about their experience here}