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Year in Review
What a fascinating first year we have had at CadaNiño here in Guatemala City. We have firmly established a long term working relationship with the government owned and operated, psychiatric hospital for developmentally disabled orphans. I sometimes refer to our tiny ministry as glorified Candy Stripers (auxiliary hospital volunteers); lots of joy and laughter, but limited line production inside of a complex hospital orphanage. Our small group of five physical therapists are there to help and support the government's medical and administrative staff. Our primary focus has been on los Niños iniciales*, the four children who are completely disabled and that live in the infirmary. In the past twelve months, Ingrid, Angel, Suzi and Anahi have made significant strides in their physical, spiritual and intellectual development. We continue to believe that Ingrid and Anahi will one day walk and that Suzi and Angel will continue to have greater mobility and dexterity.
In January, I moved into my new apartment across from the center. By Guatemalan standards it is quite luxurious and by the standards set last year bouncing around hostels, and boarding houses, it's very nice. (Pictured above: Ramon, Lucas, Jamie)
My view of the southwestern part of the city and country include: a large part of where my kids play outside, unbelievable sunsets and three active volcanoes. The neighborhood is relatively nice and safe by local standards. We are near the airport, the military base and several schools.
The first quarter has not been without its challenges. For a variety of reasons, the general population of the center has increased to around 70 full time residents. This time last year we accommodated only 50, but with the successful completion of a wonderful construction project, we had space for more residents. Unfortunately, the general fund of the hospital did not include an increase in staff. In fact, we (they) have actually shrunk headcount a bit. Additionally, limited finances have pinched the budget for medicines. This situation appears to be improving for now and we do need to be thankful that modern medicine has made this all possible.
Our first Missions-visit trip was a rousing success. We have several great ideas for future groups, interns and maybe even some full time missionaries. It's a quirky environment here, but generally clean and safe. Everything works: "kind of" or "eventually." The missionary visitors are four women who work together at First Rate, Inc. in Dallas Texas: Katherine Brown, Ann Lane, Bridgit Stone and Audrey Whitesides. They immediately bonded with the kids and were profoundly moved by their evolving relationships. One of our more senior residents (Cecilia) elicited a deep and profound moment when she lead us all in prayer after a long day at the center. Additionally, CadaNiño is involved or funding a wide range of educational and entertainment activities for all the children at the center.
On a personal note; I remained enthused and committed to this ministry. It is fun, challenging and exciting. Though I visit USA frequently, I miss my family and friends. I continue to fund 100% of my expenses and the organization's overhead, with all financial donations going directly to the salaries of the physical therapists and nannies. They typically earn between $200 and $300 per month and are frequently single Moms with mouths to feed. It is rewarding to know that it is a win-win situation. The children receive additional help and the employee's are able to make ends meet.
A recent acquisition by CadaNiño is an Orville Redenbacher Hot Air popcorn maker. This has been a huge success. The kids thrill to see the swirling kernels rapidly pop-up and overflow out of the machine. Now if we can only get the ratio of butter and salt perfected....
Hope you will keep us in your prayers and consider us in your giving efforts this year. Also, we would love to host you or a group in this beautiful country. The Mayan history here is truly amazing and visitors are always amazed by the beauty of the country and the kindness of its people.
In His name,
Jamie
Founder CadaNiño Ministries
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