Our final days in Panama... For now :)

As our time in Panama came to a close, all of us couldn't stop thinking, "No! Where did the time go? It can't already be Wednesday!".

We made the most of the time we had left by returning to Malambo in the morning to spend some time holding and feeding the babies. We also were able to finally work with 2 of the girls with cerebral palsy, Angelica (age 7) and Milarose (age 9). Of all the children with special needs in Panama, these two would appear to have the "best" care of all the orphanages in the country. Meaning these girls are fed, clothed, and bathed, and there are no apparent signs of abuse. But besides that, these girls are left alone and unloved. Both times we came to Malambo, we walked in the house finding Angelica lying on the tile floor, while all the other kids played around her. We hadn't even seen Milarose the first time we came. We were told these girls may see a physical therapist for an hour once a month or once every two months. With no follow up or caregiver education, how much good is really being done for these precious little girls?

The attitudes toward disabilities or special needs in this country are similar to those of most developing nations. These children are unwanted and seen as a liability, even for the most affluent of parents looking to adopt. Angelica is adoptable, but everyone knows that her only hope is international adoption, for someone to want her from outside her home country, if she is ever going to have a family. Milarose was higher functioning than Angelica, and could benefit tremendously with appropriate care- but just basic needs, let alone therapy and medication, are often unattainable for orphans in Panama.

Seeing these two girls really illustrated for us the dire need for Casa Providencia, the new orphanage for special needs children. Children like Angelica & Milarose will have a place to stay, with caregivers who know how to take care of them, with medication and therapy that will allow them to experience a quality of life never before possible for them here. This orphanage is going to change so many lives, we cannot wait to see all the little miracles to come.

Angelica

Milarose

Wednesday afternoon we had lunch with Matt & Misty, and met their awesome family (shout out to Peter, Rosie, & Isaac!). We had a great talk about our suggestions, wish lists, and plans for future groups to join in supporting them in creating this orphanage. That evening, we went with our good friend Adrian to celebrate birthdays and meet a whole host of new friends (Panamanians are so social and friendly- I LOVE that!!).

Thursday morning was filled with packing and last minute purchases (plantain chips, anyone?), and going to the airport with Blanca & Jorge. Reflecting back on this week, I felt as though I was constantly in awe of what we were experiencing, the people we were meeting, all the things we were able to see... plus all the fun!! I feel so lucky and blessed that we were even able to return, let alone become a part of something so much bigger than ourselves. It is my hope that this partnership continues, and that more and more students can experience the beauty and fulfillment I have found in Panama.

Look out for more information on Casa Providencia & the work of Heart's Cry Children's Ministry: http://www.heartscrychildren.com/

Thanks for all of your support! We could never do this without you all!

Love always, Jordan