Kirsten's Updates about the H.C.C. in Kenya

Bishop Mambo and Dr. Jeremy have both let me know that Malindi continues to be safe from the violence that has rocked so much of the rest of Kenya, although food and fuel are expensive and this has impacted everyone, including the orphans. Internet access and speed, as well as telephone connections have also been difficult the past few weeks. Mombasa, which is about 70 miles south of Malindi and also on the coast, has had unrest and violence. The HCC school re-opened earlier this week and hopefully with its opening there is some sense of normalcy. The ongoing political and tribal struggles are a concern for the whole of the country, and Malindi's economy is particularly vulnerable and tourist-centered, so the conflict is felt everywhere and the longer it goes on the deeper the economic impact for everyday Kenyans.

On a happy note, the HCC residential orphans actually had two celebrations recently, one on Christmas and one on New Year's Day. Both celebrations were a result of our donors' generosity. For Christmas dinner the children had a meal of pishori rice with chicken, fruit salad, eggs, biscuits, sweets, and fruit juice. They also had a special breakfast of tea and chapatis. The orphans received new clothes and took a walk on the beach with Zablon. (Malindi is a coastal town but the beach isn't close to the HCC residence, so this was quite a treat.) For the New Year's Day party the children had goat pilau, which is a favorite of the Kenyans (and me!) With so much turmoil that has happened in the country since that time, it pleases me to think the children have had these happier moments.

Dr. Jeremy has informed me that he is stepping away from caring for the orphans, with the exception of Rose, because he has to resume his studies and will not have the time. Bishop Mambo and Dr. Jeremy are working together to find a replacement for Dr. Jeremy's care. It may be that Dr. Lughanje (who worked with the children last summer during my visit) or Bishop Mambo's nephew, who has just graduated from medical school, will continue with the children. Some of the funds that I sent to them earlier this month had to be used for food for the orphans. Jim just sent some food funds yesterday, so hopefully some of his funds will be able to replace the medical funds that I sent that had to be diverted to buy food. However, it does not appear that the money that I sent in early January will be enough to pay for medical care for as long as I had hoped. How long the funds will last will depend in part on the overall health of the children and if there are any emergencies. Of particular importance is maintance of medication for the two epileptic children, as well as other kids with chronic conditions. Bishop Mambo will keep me well-informed, I'm sure.