July 15 1996

L2 and Casey,

It’s Tuesday, and we’ve just finished seeing our last patient at the clinic. I have about twenty minutes before my ride arrives, so I wanted to take a moment to write an update.

I’ve been sick on and off for the past two weeks, with a few days that were especially rough. I’m not completely sure what caused it, but I’ve had fevers, back pain, and general aches, possibly from a kidney or bladder infection. I started medication, but I still don’t feel quite like myself. I’m weak and nauseated, though I’ve somehow lost five pounds along the way.

Dad is doing okay, though he’s dealing with a heat rash on his back and chest that gets worse as the day goes on. Work continues on the well, but last night the rope broke and the pump fell sixty feet. Recovering it took a lot of time and effort and was frustrating for everyone. To make matters worse, the other pump that supplies water to people outside has also stopped working.

This morning we saw many malnourished babies at the clinic. One infant was extremely weak and near death. He could not even cry and was clearly suffering. I pray that his pain will end soon. Several other babies were also malnourished and dealing with additional health issues.

It has been hot and dry, with no rain for weeks. Storms pass all around us, but none seem to reach here. I hope by the time you read this, I’ll be feeling much better. Please forgive the brevity and lack of polish—pain makes it hard to sit and write for long.

I love you, MOM