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Sunday, February 26, 2012

Togo Screening Day

Towards the end of January we held our first screening.  We already had a waiting list from the last time we were here, so this helped fill up the spaces that were left in our surgical schedule.  Around 4000 came to the National Stadium here in Lome, Togo and 1609 appontment cards were given to those who were suitable candidates for surgery, mainly cleft lip & pallet, maxillofacial, plastic-burn reconstructive or general surgery.  They say pictures speak louder than words so here are a few snap shots of the day - click on a photo to enlarge it.
 

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Togo

After a short time of holiday in Ghana we arrived in Lome, Togo for our next field of service.  It was just under 2 years ago that we were last here and so we were looking forward to meeting old and new acquaintances.  We felt we had at least a head start, not having to start from scratch.
Nathanael and his friends waving the Togo flag on arrival
One of our Togoleise crew members carries the flag down the gangway
Dock reception

Tim meets old government acquaintances.
A dear acquaintance, Madam Adjei
All tied up and ready to go!

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Poem

Sorry it's been a while since we've updated the blog.  Sharon has been away for a short time in the UK following the death of her Grandmother.   We'd like to share this poem that Sharon's Uncle Ken (Gladys' son) wrote for the funeral.  It gives a glimpse of their lives with her on a personal level.  Meanwhile we hope to be back with some regular posts next week.


Forgive us if we don’t cry today
We’ve cried so much before
For years we’ve watched you drift away
And stood helpless on the shore

Today we’ll think of better times and bring you drifting back
Like all the times you scrimped and saved
To fill our Christmas sacks

Sixpences from the Tooth Fairy
Sunday tea at Castle Cary
Sing something simple played in the car
The babycham fawn meant it won’t be far

Caravan and B & B’s those holidays were good
But it rained and you did look strange
In that clear plastic hood

Sometimes naughty you never blamed us
One of your looks was enough to tame us

A night at the pictures
Chips in Kingsmead Square
All these little things let us know you cared

I could mention lots more things
I’ve got a massive list
But by now I think you’ve cottoned on
I think you’ve got the gist
We’re saying thanks for everything
And that you will be missed

Is there a heaven? I don’t know
You always said there was
So when you see that familiar face
Please say hello from us
You’ll meet him at Saint Peter’s Gate
He’ll be driving the shuttle bus

(The last bit refers to Sharon's Grandfather who passed away in 2000, he used to work on the buses in Bath.)