It hardly feels that I am coming up to a month, living in Cairo. The sights are familiar enough where I live… but I find that I need to continually remind myself that what I am seeing is real. At times the needs around me seem so unreal. Abject poverty seems to surround me wherever I turn; yet I am not overwhelmed by it. A hope exists that is not my own.
When I first arrived in Cairo, I was connected with a retired nurse, from Canada. The week I arrived, I was involved in helping ‘screen’ over 2000 Sudanese children. This involved checking their eyes, ears, weight, height, breathing, blood pressure, as well as distributing vitamins and a meal. The Canadian nurse also organizes a drop-in clinic every Sunday for Sudanese refugees. My time here was to be devoted to the continuation, as well as follow-up of the many Sudanese children here in Cairo, as well as helping out in the clinic. However, many things ended up changing, and I ended up teaching English and First Aid to Sudanese adults. Although enjoyable, my team and I decided that there were better suited opportunities for me in Cairo.
This past week was basically putting the brakes on that project, and changing directions completely. With all the great needs that exist in Cairo, there are many different organizations and opportunities here! It is quite wonderful to see God’s team working. No matter background, nationality or organization affiliation, all people work together for a common purpose. I have been reminded that things move much slower here. I am not frustrated, as much as eager to get my hands dirty…
By the sounds of things, I will be getting my hands clean! There is a Baby Wash Clinic located behind the Giza Pyramids, in the very poor area that exists there. This Monday will be my first time, and I am very much looking forward to my time there! The program was officially established in 1991, and has seen thousands of babies and mothers! I will have a better explanation for you, as I experience it myself!
I am continuing to teach English to the teachers, out at KuKu KaKa Primary School in Arba’a Wa Nuus. The school is made up entirely of Sudanese refugees, wishing to build the infrastructure of education while in Egypt, to bring home to Sudan in four years “in sha' Allah” (God willing). My team is becoming more and more involved out at Arba’a Wa Nuus; it seems like the vision is bigger than all of us! It is such a special place, full of special, hopeful people. I will hopefully post pictures of Arba’a Wa Nuus soon.
Although learning Arabic is proving very challenging, I am making great progress! I am encouraged now, when I go to the market to buy fruits and vegetables. People still laugh, but at least they understand me!
Thank you so much for being part of this journey – He’s definitely leading me!
Heather
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The picture above is the front door of KuKu Kaka Primary School (which means Boys and Girls Primary School in their heart language). The little boy belongs to the owner of the building - he never has pants on.
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