Filling a Need

Of all the things that happened on this year's October Trip, I think the one story that touched me the most is that of Francis and Frangelys.

Francis came to the mission several weeks ago to talk to us about her daughter Frangelys and her need for help. Frangelys has cerebral palsy and cannot move much on her own, talk, eat or bathe herself. She is completely dependent on her mother and eats through a feeding tube. Francis is a single mother with two children, one of whom needs around the clock care. Frangelys had been in a live-in program that was taking care of her, but the program recently sent her home without reason or warning. Apparently, they are sending all of the children back to their homes.

We prayed with Francis and set about trying to find a way to help her. Unfortunately, there was not an immediate way to help her monetarily. So, we continued to pray about it. Francis came to the mission again last week. Frangelys' feeding tube was infected and her mother didn't have any money for formula to give her through the tube. All Frangelys had ingested for days was tea and water. She cried all day from hunger.

On Wednesday morning of last week, Frangelys came with her mother to receive therapy. She met Emily, a PT from North Carolina who was moved by her circumstance. Emily asked Ron and myself what we could do for her. So, after explaining the situation, we all sat down to talk with Francis to pray with her and her daughter. We knew that circumstances had only gotten worse, not better for Francis. But we had hope. We used John 3:16 funds, a fund for urgent health needs to give Francis money to get food for Frangelys that day and take her to have her feeding tube cleaned. Emily asked her to come back Friday so that Deanna, Jackie and she (all PTs) could try to fit Frangelys with a wheelchair.

We spoke to several people in the group about the need that Francis had identified -- a blender -- so that she could liquefy food for her daughter to give her through the feeding tube. A simple appliance that was life saving for Frangelys would mean that she could now eat and that her mother could provide for her.

On Friday, we were able to find a stroller for Francis to use to transport Frangelys and we presented her with a blender so that she can feed her daughter.

We continue to pray for this family and for God's provision in their lives. For we know that as much as we love and care for others, God loves them so much more. He has a plan and a purpose and we may not always understand it, but should be looking for ways for Him to use us in it.

Thanks to all who are praying for this family.

Blessings,

Anna