We Are Here

Hi Family and Friends!

Wake up call in Lima, Peru was 7 am. We had hot water (even though we won´t when we get to Pucallpa). Breakfast consisted of eggs, rolls, and orange juice. The orange juice was awesome. We were on our way to the Peru Airport at 8 am.

The trip to the airport was an eye - opening experience. We were able to truly see the Peruvian culture. I can say that WE don´t know how lucky we have it. Even though some are better off than others, low income (poverty) seems to be a terrible obstacle for many in this culture. The housing or lack of seemed to be most evident while traveling down the busy streets. To me, it looked chaotic, but to them its their way of life. The streets were busy with people, small cars, and motor carriages. These looked like motorized buggies. Morgan and I had the opportunity to ride in one with the directors wife. We went ahead of the others to get the church ready. These motorized buggies (motorcycle in the front and carriage for three in the back) is their way of transportation. They go at high speeds in a limited space. There are no lines on the narrow roads and they zoom in and out of traffic, trusting one another. In Peru, these have the ride away, not people. So its important that you pay attention while walking.

After landing in Pucallpa, they had small cars for each group of three. Joe, Morgan, and I took car #2. It felt like I was on the Amazing Race. Again the trip showed us how poverty has a strong grip on many people here. The city streets were lined with "Market" type vendors. Many were selling fruits, handcrafted items,... A lot of small businesses were lined throughout too. Life seems to move at a high rate here.

After checking in, we took the small motorized vehicles to a nearby church. Once there we met as a large group to discuss how the medical mission trip would work. This orientation took about an hour and IT WAS HOT! They described how the day will be on Saturday. Many will participate with Impact group, while others will help with medically meeting the needs of others. We will set up a clinic at a nearby school. Many with chronic or acute illnesses will come for help. We have three doctors and three nurses with us. Some of us will assist them, while others will minister throughout the group.

Last night we were able to sort all the medication and supplies. Then we went to a nearby restaurant. We ate chicken and french fries.

Talk to you soon.