Mexico (MNN) ― Mexico's Tabasco state will continue relief efforts under an epidemic alert. The concerns over a waterborne disease outbreak will remain in place for another two to three months, depending on how fast the waters recede. At the invitation of Samaritan's Purse, HCJB Global Hands sent a medical team.
The three Ecuadorian medical doctors, all based at the ministry's Hospital Vozandes-Quito, include Galo Nuñez, director of the family medicine residency, Amparo Torres and intern Marco Yanez. HCJB's director of Vozandes Community Development Dr. Brad Quist is being assisted by Dr. Steve Nelson whose wife, Dorothy, is overseeing women and children's ministries while Ralph Kurtenbach is helping in communications and logistics.
Quist explains, "In recent days, we've been going with church organizations to outlying communities to provide medical assistance, but also the churches are providing food and water and clothing, as well."
It's the area's worst flooding in 40 years. The floods forced about a million people to flee. David Torres, team leader for the Disaster Assistance Response Team from Samaritan's Purse, said he is grateful for the help coming from HCJB Global Hands. "While flooding is not a new phenomenon in this low-lying area, flooding of this magnitude caught many of its inhabitants by surprise." He added, "People are beginning to return to their homes wondering what is left of their humble possessions.
Quist says their team is dealing with the unseen needs by extending the hope of the Gospel. "They've lost their sense of direction in life. In fact, the public health authorities have reported a spike in suicide attempts and suicides in the area. We've been able to meet with people and talk with them about their losses, encourage them, pray with them, and encourage them to find their meaning in Jesus Christ."
The team arrived on the field on November 15th and head home on the 28th. A quick response speaks volumes. "It fits well with our goals in mission mobilization," says Quist, "especially since there are so many nationals on the team. It's an opportunity for them to get involved in a relief effort and let God speak to them through their experiences."
