Scabies

Yesterday Nilzania and I went back to the doctor both in the morning and afternoon with several other boys. We found out that some of the boys have Scabies, "an infestation of the skin with the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabei." But, don´t worry if you were here on the trip recently. Even though it is contagious it does not mean that you have it. According to one website I read you get Scabies "by direct, prolonged, skin-to-skin contact with a person already infested with scabies. Contact must be prolonged (a quick handshake or hug will usually not spread infestation). Infestation is easily spread to sexual partners and household members. Infestation may also occur by sharing clothing, towels, and bedding." So, most likely you did not catch Scabies from the boys, but it is always good to take proper precautions.

Also, all of the boys probably have worms. The doctors didn´t seem to be too concerned about this because they say this is common here in Brazil because many of the children walk around barefoot or with flip-flops. Most all of them have anemia as well as a lack of vitamins. We gave Deborah and Germinia iron tablets and vitamins to give the boys, so pray that they will be faithful to see that the boys get the vitamins.

Linda and Eddie arrived safely in Fortaleza yesterday. God provided for them because it actually worked out for a taxi to take them directly to the airport! Amazinginly the two of them, all their luggage and the driver all fit into one car!!! You know that´s a miracle if you have seen the cars here! They are all really small!!! However, this particular car was a station wagon, but still, I was surprised!

To the team members-- do you know if anyone paid the translators for last week? Keith Jefferson said he did not. Just wondering....

God did answer your prayers about housing for me and Anne. We moved upstairs this morning into a dorm room. Wow, I feel like I am back in college all over again-- well, not really. Actually there is only one other girl on the hall because everyone else is home on winter break. The room is a little less comfy (and probably not as clean) as the room we stayed in downstairs. Pray for us as we make yet another transition.

Continue to pray for good health for Anne and I as we try to get the boys well. This morning I woke up feeling a little bad with cold symptoms. Pray that I can eat healthy foods and get enough vitamins to feel better.