Good News for Urukundo

Todd and Andria Ellingson have dedicated their lives to serving God in Rwanda. If it is God's will, Todd will arrive in early 2010 and Andria in May after fulfilling her obligation to the school she has a contract with.
I look forward to their arrival.

Todd & Andria during their visit to Urukundo Village. Todd & Andria during their visit to Urukundo Village.

Todd and Andria are part of the family of Christ at:
New Covenant Lutheran Church
15152 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
480-993-9045 (cell)

Their coming will be a loss to New Covenant Lutheran Church but such a blessing to Urukundo Village. We appreciate the love and support given to them by their faith family as they step out on a new journey in faith.
Todd serves as Director of Youth and Family in service to the Lord at New Covenant Lutheran Church in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Andria is in her sixth year as a Kindergarten teacher at Madison Rose Lane Elementary School in Phoenix, Arizona.

The Latest on Claudine

I'm keeping you current as to where your prayers and thoughts are needed.

I received a call on Friday, September 25th to have Claudine at King Faisal Hospital at 9:30 Sunday morning. No details, just be there. I was so excited because this means she is being considered by the team of Heart specialists from Australia for surgery to close the hole in her heart. I was sure they would not have called if this were not so.
Our visit to the hospital on Sunday Sept 27 was a Preliminary visit.

Claudine was seen by three doctors who examined her from head to toe to heart. They then ordered blood work done and said we would hear from them the first week in November as the team would arrive November 11th. I am guessing that is a “YES”. The doctors said there are two options to fix the hole that should have closed at birth.

The two possibilities:
1. They will go in with a catheter and fix the hole or
2. They will do an incision.

This will be determined after a study of the ultra sound and blood work is completed. The one that is safest for Claudine will be chosen.

I expected her to scream when the blood work was done but not so. That dear child cried when they inserted the needle in her tiny hand and then sat quietly in my arms while they pumped her hand to get blood flow. Most of the terror for babies and small children is seeing the nurses in white and the needle and blood. That is frightening but Claudine’s vision is not that good yet, so she was not afraid.

Her eyes are now clearer as the film of white cataracts is gone.

Claudine
Claudine

We are seeing progress as she heals. She looks away from bright lights and responds to me before I speak, telling me that she can see my features and knows it is me. She is sitting up by herself and sitting alone for a longer time without falling over. She follows the spoon and cup when being fed and is making baby sounds. She does not grasp objects yet, but does pull her socks off.

I am encouraged and I know she will continue to improve. We need a good therapist to help strengthen her legs and hands.

Greetings from Mama Arlene for August, 2009

Like in any family, there are times in this family when I am not sure where to step next. Our blessings this month far out weight any complications. We have busy months and then busier months. I am fine and my health is better than ever.

The weather is great and the rain has started, so planting will start soon. I want to plant an American garden again. I miss lettuce and radishes, little green onions and sweet corn the most. I have to admit Big Boy tomatoes cannot be produced here.

My thoughts are of going to the US for a visit in 2010. My 14th great-grandchild has been born. A beautiful little girl named Kaelyn. I need to enjoy some time with her. I miss my family and friends. I will explore the best time to be away from Urukundo and the kids.

I do hope to see as many of you as possible while I am home but I have promised myself I will spend more time with my family getting to know my new great grand child.