Unexpected Adventure

Putting the roof on this week at Hope Radio

Here we are again.  Since Andy's return to Togo he's had intermittent problems with his heart.  That's right, his heart.  The doctors here have been great to collaborate with each other, friends in the States, and do whatever we can to diagnose and even treat the issues.  He's been on a medication for a few months, but even with that his symptoms continue to increase in severity, duration, and frequency.  It's a little unnerving, actually.  The heart is kind of vital.  And, honestly, this isn't what we want right now.  We felt that we were finally getting into a role, a routine of work, school, and ministry.  The radio is so close to broadcasting - we are working on programming schedules and finishing the last of construction.  

Andy at HoH as they monitored him through the night last week

This feels like a set back.  People say one step forward and two steps back, but it often feels that we are missing out on the forward part...  we do backwards well.

So, through all of the international insurance stuff, locating records, talking with providers across the world, and what feels like a multitude of other details, we have a plan.

A week from today we leave for Lomé and then board our flight the following evening with our final destination being Sheffield, England.  Andy's appointment is scheduled for March 8th, and right now my prayer is that there will be clear answers.  The kids keep asking about fruit, wondering if there are strawberries and blueberries and grapes there :)  Lena asked if we are coming back to Togo, "because I really love living here."  Such sweet reminders to know that the kids are well and have adjusted and even like living in Togo.  

We are readying our house to be vacant for an unknown period of time, thinking about how we are going to freeze, and clinging to the verses that remind us that God goes before us.

So.  That's that.  In the mean time, I've gone out with friends to get half of my hair braided, and we've been on the search for winter clothes.  We are going full force into this unexpected adventure!

The verse that has guided me through many moments continues to come to mind again:

Deuteronomy 31:8

The Lord is the One who will go before you.  He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you.  Do not be afraid or discouraged.

We have had some people ask about the financial cost involved in all of this and if there is a way they can help.  Here are a couple of options.

Giving throught Landmark - Anderson, IN:

• Give directly to the church, designating for Justison Medical
• Mail: 1924 W Cross St Anderson, IN 46011
• Call: (765) 649-3805 for questions or more information

Giving through ABWE (online):

• Click here, choose the amount you want to give, make a note that it is for medical expenses
• Call 800-901-2293 (ABWE Donor services) for questions you may have