Acres of Hope Blog

Trip to Kparblee, Nimba County

2010-05-20T03:40:00.000-07:00

Hi folks! I am so sorry it's been so long since the blog was updated, but needless to say, I have been very busy as the Interim Country Director!

In the month of March a team came out to Liberia with Patty. The team consisted of our AOH Belgium staff, Cyndi who is on the board of directors, and Dave who is the office manager in the US. Our guests were here for one very eventful week, and we also had a set of adoptive parents with us (who made it successfully home with their two girls!) during some of the activities.

To start the trip we (myself included) drove deep into the bush to visit the village of Kparblee (pronounced "Bah-blee"). This village is where Acres of Hope built a clinic some years ago. Many of our medical related donations have ended up at this clinic.

Additionally AOH started a school and feeding center in Kbarblee. No one else was helping this tiny town, and they were struggling to recover from the war. Thomas, a native of Kparblee, and respected townsman came in contact with Patty and together they worked to help this needy village.

Today the clinic is doing great, as is the school. There is no longer a feeding program, but the village has done a great job of continuing the school and clinic that Acres of Hope started. It was wonderful to be along for this trip and to see some of Acres of Hope's history in the form of these still-running projects.

We started our trip fairly early in the morning and drove and drove and drove. Just when I thought we were about to drive out of Liberia (or off the edge of the earth - whichever came first) we drove two more hours into the bush!

While crossing a bridge near a town we saw all these people bathing and washing clothes.

Here is a thick strip of the infamous Driver Ants. They are like the ant version of a Pirana (no joke).

We didn't make it to the village until after dark. Everyone was thrilled to see us. This man pictured here is welcoming us with songs and trumpeting from his bull horn.

This is it! The clinic looked wonderful and we were thrilled to see how the villagers had come together to maintain and improve the clinic over the years.

This is one of the staff at the clinic (I think he is a physician's assistant).

Some of the donations that have been sent to the clinic by Acres of Hope.

The medical supply room.

The beds were all donated by Acres of Hope.

We actually were only able to spend one night and half a day in the town. We spent half our time walking through the village visiting the school, church, etc. and then the rest of the time in a program held in our honor.

This is Cyndi with some of the children who attend the school.

This massive bridge is on the road right before you enter Kbarblee. It's actually out of order. It fell some years ago and since then cars have not been able to drive across. In dry season you can go a little out of the way and actually drive through the river (when it's shallow) but in rainy season vehicles have to park on the other side of this bridge and cannot enter the town. The community is trying to see if they can get the government's help to rebuild this bridge to promote better trade and economic conditions in the town.

Dave with some of the village people.

The village's cultural dancing team gave us a little show.

Here Thomas is pointing out the location of the first clinic building. It was actually a mud and stick house.

The first clinic building is only ruins now.

A pretty little girl of about 10 baby-sitting her little brother.

This is the school that Acres of Hope started. The leadership is now completly community based. We were amazed to see that the little primary school AOH started had been expanded to this size and a much higher grade level (I think it goes through high school, but it might have just been through junior high.)

Thomas, Chris, and Patty at the little program the school held for us.

There was beautiful singing by all the students.

This is the same man that welcomed us the night before. According to the children, he is "the man who praises people." This is one of the cultural arts that is being forgotten in the cities. This man is trained in many songs, can make up his own songs, knows how to play this horn, and knows it's his job to welcome the visitors. (I am sure he is also involved in many other community affairs).

These women are the cultural welcoming committee. They sang and danced for us as we walked around the village, and then were also a part of the program later that morning.

At about 10:00 the program started. Kbarblee is near the boarder of the Ivory Coast and some people had walked from the Ivory Coast to be a part of this program. The village wanted to honor Acres of Hope for all they had done to help them over the past 5 years. There was more cultural dancing, singing from the students, many, many speeches, the donation of some wheelchairs and baby supplies, and finally the traditional gowning.

The staff from the clinic.

Acres of Hope donated wheelchairs to these two handicapped men.

Ladies from the local Baptist church singing.

Wim getting gowned. It is one of the highest honors in Liberia to be given an item of African clothing. Typically this happens at the end of a program or ceremony. All of us who came on this trip were gowned.

The program was veeerrryyyy long and some of the children just couldn't stay awake.

AOH donated some diapers and other supplies to the mothers who had just given birth in the clinic. Some of the babies from the clinic were less than 24 hours old!

A little girl with her own baby. This is a "country doll" made of a piece of wood (the center part of a particular palm branch) and has synthetic hair (leftover from a woman's hairstyle) stuffed into the top.

And finally, we all gathered around for a picture in front of the clinic.

We are sad we couldn't stay longer in the village, but had a very wonderful and very eventful trip anyway! The ride home was very long and it didn't help that we were not able to leave the village until after 2:00 PM (because of the program). But we all survived and it all made for a wonderful story and great memories!

Stay tuned for more updates! There is a lot to share!

-Melodie (Interim Country Director)

Acres of Hope Update

2010-04-24T02:50:00.000-07:00

Dear friends, families and supporters,

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Melodie Kejr (pronounced "care") and I grew up as a missionary kid here in Liberia and the Ivory Coast. My relationship with Acres of Hope began in 2005 when I met Patty in Liberia during my summer internship for college. After graduating in 2006 I worked for Acres of Hope in Liberia for a year and a half. Since then I have lived in the US, had a few other jobs, moved back to Liberia, and most recently, got married! My husband Kevin and I are back in Liberia and I just began work again for AOH as the Interim Country Director while Eric Sewa is on sabbatical. Eric is finishing up his master's degree and preparing to defend his thesis, so with my availability and Eric's schedule, it has worked out well for me to take this job during this time.

Things have changed so much over the years I have been connected with Acres of Hope. In 2006 there was one orphanage with about 40 kids. In 2007 we opened another facility and had nearly 100 kids. Later in 2007, we opened a third facility for special needs children. At our peak we had around 125 children between the three facilities and a few foster homes. Many desperately needy children were saved during this time and it was my privilege to have been a part of that process. Things began to slow down in 2008 and finally, in January of 2009, adoptions were suspended. I was devastated at this news and believed with all my heart that adoptions would reopen before too long. Well, "too long" has passed and there is still a moratorium on adoptions. Thankfully, children with adoption decrees completed before the moratorium and those with special needs are still being allowed to be adopted. Meanwhile, many children have been caught in limbo in various orphanages and foster homes around the country.

My work with Acres of Hope is fueled by my passion to find the best homes for the various children in our care. I will do my very best to get those who are allowed to travel home to their families. But this is only a portion of the children in our care. Additionally, the government of Liberia is establishing new requirements for orphanages and is altering their criteria for children they deem in need of alternative care (this includes those they believe are in need of adoption). Together with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Acres of Hope will be going through each of our cases to determine what the potential future will be for each of our children that do not have special needs or adoption decrees. Patty and I will be available to discuss your concerns and the future of our children, but the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is responsible for the final decision on each child.

We still have no idea when the suspension on international adoption will be lifted. There have been many rumors over the past 15 months, but despite all the good and the bad we've heard, things still remain essentially the same. However, we recently learned that the government of Liberia anticipates the new adoption laws will require an organization be a member of the Hague International Convention on Adoption before it can practice adoptions. Presently, all agencies will have to evaluate the Hague Accreditation requirements and begin the long process that will be involved. If you are a family who has been waiting a long time to be placed with a child or if you are matched to a child who does not have an adoption decree, we encourage you to contact the home office, Patty, or me to discuss what the best next step will be for your situation in light of these new developments.

As we consider all that has happened over the last year and a half, and where we are today, it is easy to feel disappointed, disheartened and even angry. Yet God is sovereign through all of this and if we seek Him with sincere hearts, he will show us what the next step is during this difficult time. Above all we need to remember that God truly does have the best interest of every Liberian child in mind, even when we feel the thing that was in their best interest may not happen anymore.

I pray God's blessing on each one of you as you walk through this time and encourage you to contact me with any needs or concerns.

In Christ,

Melodie Kejr

(The picture above is me with the Smith girls who just made it home to Canada!!!)

HOPE: Acres of Hope Newsletter January 2010

2010-01-15T06:19:00.000-08:00

HOPE. It's a word that inspires and brings about many positive feelings. It whispers of better days to come and shines light in dark situations. It is something that everyone in the world appreciates, but some cling to it desperately. When Jesus Christ came to the world over 2000 years ago, he was the fulfillment of the HOPE of thousands of people. His life, death, and resurrection provided the solution to the desperate condition of sin in which mankind suffered. This HOPE is eternal and is free to anyone who is willing to receive it. And it is because of Christ's HOPE, that Acres of Hope is able to help the needy children in the world today. We are privileged to not only claim this HOPE as our own, but to be able to share it with those that God brings our way.

This past year, those connected with Acres of Hope have become especially acquainted with this word. Adoptions were suspended in Liberia over a year ago due to the government reforming the laws on adoption. We HOPED that they would reopen in a short amount of time, and the children would soon be united with their adoptive parents. Because of the suspension and a failed economy we faced additional challenges as an organization with financial constraints, and we clung to the HOPE that somehow we would still be able to care for the children and meet the tremendous needs of those we serve. Despite this disappointment, and the year turning out quite differently than many of us had imagined, God still gave us several stories of HOPE, amazing stories that could be considered miracles. We still saw HOPE in the darkness.

HOPE came in the form of several beautiful babies, who were placed with Acres of Hope by the Ministry of Health during this challenging time. The Ministry of Health has continuously relied on AOH for our high quality of care for needy children. Recently AOH was commended by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Justice for our professionalism and exceptional care given to the children of Liberia.

One of our greatest stories of HOPE this year was Alvin, a 13-year-old boy who lay dying in a tuberculosis sanitarium when AOH found him. He had suffered numerous injuries due to a car

accident which led to paralysis. Misdiagnosed with tuberculosis Alvin developed bedsores that had eaten away his flesh to the point that his bones and internal organs were visible. He could no longer walk, use the bathroom, roll over, or lay in any comfortable position. Alvin's future seemed hopeless, and death was just around the corner.

On one of my first visits to Alvin I thought he would die within a few days. Alvin asked me to sleep near him in the sanitarium (on the floor beside the bed) so that if Jesus came, and saw a white person, He would be inclined to stop and see him. I explained to Alvin that Jesus showed no preference for black or white skin, and then led Alvin through the plan of salvation, so that if Alvin were to pass away in the night, Jesus would indeed bring him home with Him to Heaven. Alvin accepted Jesus as his Savior that night and I stayed close to him throughout the night sleeping on the hard cement floor beside his bed.

Alvin and his birth mom had been praying a long time for some way that Alvin's life could be spared. Some way for him to live the future he dreamed of and recover from his constant suffering. Through the ministry of Acres of Hope, and a loving Christian family in America extending their hearts and home through adoption, the present day hands of Christ reached out to Alvin to save his precious life and bring him to a place where he can receive the most physical recovery possible on earth. A plea was made known and people responded to help get Alvin to the States for medical care. With the generous financial donations, and the prayers of thousands of people, God worked a modern day miracle in the life of a little child who thought he had been forgotten. Who thought Jesus only came to white people. Who thought his dreams to see life and a future in America would never come true. Today Alvin has undergone many surgeries and is healing physically and emotionally. He is doing well with his new family and is looking forward to a long, full life.

After Alvin was safely home, I was able to dive head first into preparations for the new Extreme Humanitarian Expeditions AOH will be leading. Each expedition will be filled with exciting fun adventures in the back country, and featuring a spellbinding fusion of humanitarian projects, Liberian culture, and relationships with locals. Participants will engage in some of the complex issues facing developing nations and learn how one can truly make a difference. These trips are designed to bridge the gap between the vision to help and the ability to experience first hand making a difference in the lives of the Liberian people. The Extreme Humanitarian Expeditions and projects will help to provide sustainability for villages and projects throughout Liberia.

You can read more about the Extreme Humanitarian Expedition by clicking here to visit our website and download the Humanitarian Expedition informational packet for cost, scheduled dates of expeditions and details of the trips.

During one of my survey trips for the expeditions, a young man approached me about his brand-new daughter who was born with a double cleft palate. Blessing’s health was in jeopardy so the family asked me to take her. Despite a hospital stay and a lot of coaching, with the biological family, Blessing was rejected by her family and village who feared she was bewitched because of her physical deformities. So we welcomed this little Blessing into the AOH family and she is now thriving in a foster home. For Blessing, there is HOPE. She will be undergoing surgery in February then attempts will be made to reunite her with her biological family.

The AOH family suffered two devastating losses when Lawrence and Levi, two of our beautiful but medically fragile children, passed away very unexpectedly.

None of us had anticipated that in August Lawrence would still be in Liberia (and not with his adoptive family n the US) and certainly none of us anticipated his death or Little Levi who still waited for a family. We are comforted by the HOPE of Jesus Christ and the life we know Lawrence and Levi are enjoying

with Him in Heaven.

The children at the AOH Children Home want each of you to know that life is good at the home. We have been blessed to have the Lairds, foster and adoptive parents with AOH and missionaries with SIM missions in Liberia visit the orphanage almost every Saturday. They along with their children play games and usually bring treats for the kids. Holiday events like Easter and Christmas are always made special. Melodie Sheppard has been a constant blessing as well as she serves the Lord in her ministry with the children and women.

Shortly after Alvin went home Acres of Hope began another story of HOPE, one we trust will continue to become even more inspiring. The Ministry of Health had approached Acres of Hope several months earlier about a beautiful baby boy named Jeremiah that desperately needed care. At the time Acres of Hope just couldn't handle another child (as no income was coming in because of adoption being on hold), but with the passing of Lawrence and Levi...well, there was now room. Jeremiah was abandoned in a local hospital due to his hydrocephaly. Jeremiah is about a year and a half now and has spent almost the first year of his life in the hospital. He was abandoned by his family after receiving surgery. While the hospital had tried their best to care for him, the staff simply did not have the time or resources to care for this little one and his very special needs. Jeremiah began to really go downhill and with nowhere else to turn, the Ministry of Health asked AOH once more if they could take him. We were ready this time and he was welcomed into the special needs room with open arms. His condition was deplorable. Though at least a year old, he was thin enough to wear newborn clothing, and his large, misshapen head was covered with terrible bedsores.

Jeremiah's condition upon arriving at Acres of Hope's Children's Home.

Little Jeremiah is finally receiving the long overdue tender loving care he so deserves. AOH nannies have given special attention to this sweet angel who had been forgotten....

AOH has established a sponsorship program for our special needs children.

For information about this program visit our website by clicking here.

Perhaps you might like to give HOPE to a little child like Jeremiah.

“When a poor person dies of hunger,

it has not happened because God

did not take care of him or her.

It has happened because neither you

nor I wanted to give that person

what he or she needed.”

- Mother Teresa-

Jeremiah immediately began to improve in our care and has already become a treasured member of the AOH family. Though Jeremiah has faced a lot of heartaches in his young life, he has become a child of HOPE. Acres of Hope has been given the privilege to care for this special child, giving him HOPE when no one else was able to, and we pray his story does not end in Liberia. We pray that somewhere in a country with medical resources more advanced than Liberia, there is a family who would be willing to bring Jeremiah home and call him their own. That this child who has been uncomfortable for the majority of his life, who has felt the sting of abandonment and rejection, through the arms of a loving family these wounds will heal, and he will experience the greatest HOPE this young one can see on this earth.

ROCK HILL PROJECT

Rock Hill is a community of more than 30,000 residents who mainly crush rock by hand for a living. It is heart breaking to walk through this community and see young children, pregnant women and elderly people pounding rocks into gravel by hand in HOPES of making enough money to buy a bowl of rice at the end of the day. AOH partnered with AOH-Belgium to bring HOPE to the children and their families by installing 2 hand pumps providing clean drinking water which continues to saves lives.

AOH has supported the Wilbel Foundation School which has been a make shift school in an abandoned building in the community. The building is in need of extensive repair. AOH has sponsored numerous students and help to supplement the teacher’s salary to this school. With the involvement in the community to bring HOPE to the residents there Acres of Hope stepped out in Faith and committed to bring quality education to the children. This last year AOH in partnership with our sister organization AOH-Belgium has raised $60,000 for the construction of the new Acres of Hope Rock Hill Elementary/Training Institute which will open her doors in September 2010. We HOPE to educate a minimum of 500 students per year with the addition of adult education training classes in the late afternoon and evenings. A teacher sponsorship program has been established to offset tuition fees for students. The adult education program will include literacy and skills training such as sewing, soap making, and classes on independent business success. If you would like to be a part of this exciting program to give HOPE to hundreds of kids, please visit www.acresofhope.org or email us aoh.savinglives@gmail.com

In 2005 Acres of Hope revitalized the Kparblee Community Clinic in Nimba County. The services that were provided were life saving and gave HOPE to the community and surrounding areas. Word spread of the clinic even into Ivory Coast and soon it became apparent that we would have to expand the existing clinic or build a new one. This last year has been exciting with the construction of the new AOH 35 bed Clinic in Kparblee which will serve hundreds of people in the surrounding area. Below is the construction of the clinic.

HOPE comes in many forms, Orphan Rescue, Education, and Medical Outreach, but none so important than meeting the Spiritual needs of a nation hurt by years of war and dysfunction. Acres of Hope recognizes that without the Spiritual foundation and commitment to serve the Lord, none of what we do has much meaning. Recently I was appointed to develop a ministry in Robertsport which is about 2 hours from the Capital in Cape Mount County. This community is about 70% Muslim, but back in 1834 the Mt. Zion Baptist Church was founded in Robertsport. Today this church building sits on 10 acres overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With only 15 members in the congregation, but a heart to grow, I have made a personal commitment to develop and support this vital ministry. Our Christian presence is a testimony in the community. Plans are in progress to restore the historical church building, build an elementary school and construct 2 missionary houses on the property. Total project cost is $250,000

Consider becoming a partner in this important ministry. Or perhaps your church would like to “adopt” the Mt. Zion Community Church. Your involvement will not only bless this ministry, but will be a testimony to an entire community that needs desperately to hear of HOPE through Jesus Christ. Mt. Zion is committed to Romans which states:

“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love:

give preference to one another in honor;

not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit,

serving the Lord: rejoicing in HOPE,

persevering in tribulation and devoted to prayer.”

Romans 12:10-12

AOH expanded our services this past year to include The Democratic Republic of Congo! We now are doing Orphan Rescue and adoptions from the Congo-DRC. Our trip in September of 2009 to Congo proved to be successful in many ways. We spent time with government officials sharing with them our commitment to the children of Congo. Great relationships were established, and we were blessed to experience the Ministries endorsing our efforts to provide humanitarian relief and work along side the different branches of government to accomplish our goals.

I was particularly touched to visit mission stations where my parents served as medical missionaries when I was a child. Things had CHANGED in 40 years, but our house was still there and it was great to walk the halls of my father’s hospital. It brought back many wonderful memories of my childhood and also reminded me of how much work there is still to do. Another blessing came our way when the very dorm I grew up in at boarding school, became thenew AOH Orphanage Children’s Home! Talk about coming full circle!

We look forward to many years in the Congo and bringing HOPE to those we serve there. Acres of Hope USA has been busy with domestic adoptions and coordinating all international activities with our sister organizations. Acres of Hope USA became a fully licensed Child Placing Agency licensed by the State of Wisconsin in 2008. Tim Faust, Director of Adoptions- USA and I have attended state wide conferences on adoption issues as many changes are constantly occurring. I have had numerous speaking engagements across the country and traveled to Belgium for 2 separate fund raisers this last year. We have been on several radio programs, television, and had numerous newspaper articles written.

The week of March 12-21, 2010 we will be celebrating the ground breaking of the Rock Hill School project and the Dedication Program of the Clinic in Kparblee. In addition we will be kicking off our Extreme Humanitarian Expeditions. This will be an exciting week filled with opportunities to be a part of what Acres of Hope is doing in Liberia. Our AOH-Belgium team will be on the ground that week and we want to extend an invitation to all our supporters to come and see first hand the life-saving work AOH is doing. We will be touring a variety of projects and sites giving all those in attendance an insider view of what makes Acres of Hope uniquely effective. Please contact our office at 715-765-4118 if you would like to be a participant.

We want to thank all our families, friends, volunteers and contributors for the wonderful support and prayers you have given to Acres of Hope this last year. Each of you have given us the encouragement to continue giving the HOPE to others who are in need. AOH whether USA, Belgium, Liberia, Ghana or Congo are the hands and feet to accomplish the work, but through your Spirit of generosity and support our mission is accomplished.

May the coming year bring HOPE to the world and to each of you.

Many Blessings,

Patty Anglin, Executive Director

And the entire Staff of AOH

Orphanage Christmas Party

2010-01-11T02:04:00.000-08:00

The children at our orphanage were able to enjoy several Christmas celebrations this year! Holidays for our kids are sometimes anticlimactic since they don't have families to celebrate with. So for Christmas we always do our best to make sure the kids have the best time we are able to afford.

The day before Christmas Eve we I hosted the main party for the kids. We started out be dressing the kids in new outfits. It is a Liberian Christmas tradition to receive and wear a new outfit for Christmas. The children were so happy about the new clothes, and some of them (like little Teddy) seemed so excited they would burst!

We then watched a Christmas show. The kids LOVE watching movies and kid's programs, so this was a very important part of the party to them.

Several missionary volunteers and visitors came for the party. They helped to hold the kids during the DVD and then assisted during the playtime afterwards.

When the show was finished I read the kids the Christmas story from the Ergermeier's children's Bible story book. I have Bible story flash cards to illustrate the story. The kids also love story time and enjoyed the big, easy to see pictures.

We then played several games including a relay race...And Duck Duck Goose.

After the activities the kids ate their lunch and had a big pink cake for dessert! The kids get candy and cookies from time to time, but they rarely get cake, so this was a very special treat.

On Christmas day the kids put their new clothes back on, and opened the gifts I had purchased and wrapped for every child. Later one of the AOH staff members visited bringing more gifts. The Laird family also visited on Christmas.

We really feel the kids had a great time during the various parties and it was a blessing to us to be able to share the love of Jesus with these precious little ones during this holiday season.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Our Beautiful Children

2009-11-06T15:09:00.002-08:00

Here are some recent pictures of our beautiful children. As you can see they are doing well! We continue to pray that some of them will get to go home to their adoptive families soon...

A Village Blessing

2009-10-22T04:37:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, Patty and some of the Acres of Hope staff were trekking through the jungles of Liberia near a village they will be working with for the new Extreme Humanitarian Expeditions (Stay tuned for more info on these!).

They navigated jungle paths...

...teetered across a long monkey bridge...

...and stood under a tree that is hundreds of years old.

They were just about to go visit Monkey Island when a man came running towards them.

"Missy! Missy! You have to come." He beckoned Patty. "You need to see the baby."

"What baby?" Patty asked.

"Well…" the man hesitated, "it's a human baby…But, it's not correct. The baby is not correct."

So Patty and the humanitarian expedition team followed the man into his village. As Patty stepped into the circle of houses a woman came forward carrying a small bundle. Wrapped in several yards of African fabric was a tiny newborn baby girl. The baby had a beautiful complexion and thick, curly hair, but also had a double cleft palate.

"This is my wife and my baby," the man explained. "We think the baby is witched."

By now nearly the entire village had gathered around the white woman holding the unusual baby. People chattered and nodded their heads in agreement as the man explained his fears for his firstborn daughter. Not only was he afraid his daughter had been born with a curse, but the baby was having trouble eating. Patty could see that the child, at only two days old, was already dehydrated.

"What is her name?" Patty asked.

"Blessing." The father replied.

"And she will be a blessing to this village." Then, with the baby girl's family standing by, along with almost the whole village, Patty explained to the village that the little girl had simply been born with a birth defect, and was not witched (cursed) at all. That though she looked different, she was still a beautiful human being created by God to be a blessing to her family and the entire village.

The parents tried to persuade Patty to take the baby. They were still not convinced Blessing was normal and were having trouble feeding her, so it seemed like a good solution to them. But Patty said no. She knew this child had two loving parents, and one correctible medical problem. What the family needed at this point was training in her care until she would be old enough for surgery.

So Patty asked the family if they would like to have special training to care for the baby and they agreed. Blessings mother, along with the mother's sister grabbed a few belongings then joined Patty in the AOH Land Rover to drive back to Monrovia.

Patty admitted the baby at the ELWA hospital. She introduced the mother to the doctor and then helped them get settled in. Patty, who has a lot of experience with special needs babies, was able to train the mother a bit on how to breastfeed the baby. The baby was diagnosed with dehydration but she was now in good hands. The nurses and doctor began teaching the mother how to breastfeed an infant with a double cleft palate.

Patty visited the baby and her mother every day and each time she saw Blessing she picked her up, kissed her, and told her how much she loved her. The baby's mother and aunt would watch in disbelief, along with the other mothers and nurses, wondering why a white woman would see any value in a deformed African baby. "I am her grandmother." Patty said, adding to their wonderment. Patty would again explain, to all who would hear, that the baby was not cursed, but God had created her to be a blessing.

Blessing was hospitalized for four days. Over the course of the four days the baby's mother really began to bond to her little blessing. When baby and mom went home, mom had learned a lot about caring for her special little one. Additionally, after three months little Blessing would be old enough for corrective surgery.

The little family learned a lot from Patty and the hospital. Patty was able to visit the baby fairly often, but nevertheless, after about 2 weeks she received an urgent call. Blessing was not doing well. The family again said they wanted Patty to take the baby.

As Patty drove to the village to check on the baby, she knew the little girl was probably in poor condition and would likely need to be placed in foster care. She called the Laird family, who are SIM missionaries in Liberia, who graciously agreed to foster Blessing, should the need arise.

At the village Patty was shocked to see how much weight the baby had lost. The family had had a long talk with the heads of the village and everyone was agreed that Patty should take the baby. They knew that the child was not doing well in the village. They also knew the little girl would be safe with Patty, since she had shown so much love for the little girl, and placed value on a child they all thought was witched.

And so Patty brought the baby to the Laird's home where they have lovingly been caring for her. Blessing has gained weight and is thriving with her foster family.

We're still not sure what the future holds for Blessing, but she is safe and well, and has a loving home with the Lairds, for as long as she may need it.

And so, that day a few months ago, as Patty and the humanitarian expedition team were simply surveying a village in preparation for their upcoming expeditions, God lead them to this family who was in great need of help. And through that, a little life was saved, a village learned the value of a little baby with a cleft palate, and Blessing has already become a blessing to many people.

Blessing is currently a foster placement only and so has no specific funds coming in for her care. If you would like to donate towards Blessing's needs (formula, clothing, medicine) please click here and specify "Blessing".

Cultural Fact: In Liberia children with obvious medical problems, like Blessing's double cleft palate, are thought to be "witched" (cursed or possessed by an evil spirit), and are frequently left to die in the bush. Think about it - if you really believed your child would bring horribly bad luck, or was possessed by an evil spirit, getting rid of the child would actually seem like a wise thing to do. If a handicapped child is not thought to be "witched", then the mother would still be overwhelmed with the thought of how she would care for this child who would take lots of extra attention, in addition to her normal duties of washing clothes by hand, farming, selling in the market, cooking, and providing clothing and medical care for her family.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Alvin Update! We still need to pay for the flight!

2009-10-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

Alvin is doing so well! I am so happy to share this update with you. A friend of Alvin's adoptive family wrote the following update and continued plea for financial donations, and gave me permission to share it along with these new pictures of Alvin.

This update reveals how Alvin's doctors learned some things about him that were not clear before. It also explains the details of how Alvin was able to make it to the states when the flight was not yet completely paid for.

"Alvin livid in Liberia, Africa. There he has a mother and five siblings who loved him. At the age of eleven Alvin's life changed forever. Left paralyzed weeks after a car accident, doctors there unknowingly misdiagnosed the cause of his paralysis, treating him for tuberculosis. As time went on Alvin laid in a hospital bed and complications arose placing him near death. Doctors gave up hope on him. The only thing his mother knew she could do was to give him up and pray that he would be adopted by a family who could get him the lifesaving care he needed. The mother's dream came true when Stephanie and David Dodd adopted him.

In order to get him here safely an air ambulance had to be hired at a cost of $98,750. The amount was unobtainable for the family. They started to raise the funds but realized Alvin would die before they could get the full amount. They agreed to take a $20,000 deposit which they borrowed, and give the full payment of $78,780 within 90 days .

Since that time Alvin has undergone five surgeries and received excellent medical care at Greenville Memorial Hospital. His health continues to improve and he is now safe at his house with the rest of his new family.

The family still faces the challenge of raising the money to pay for the air ambulance by November 6, 2009. By spreading the word about Alvin's story we all hope to attain the financial goal. If you can help in any way please send money to the address below. Thank you so much for the support."

(Alvin at home for his 14th birthday. Here he is with his brother, who was also adopted from Liberia).

Right now the AOH Paypal link is down (due to the website redesign project) so you will have to donate by sending cash or a check.

Alvin Dodd

119 Cherrywood Trail

Greer, SC 29650

Thank you for the part you may have already played in bringing Alvin home. Please continue to spread the word about this great need. Continue to pray and donate again, if you are able to. Remember, even the small amounts add up fast.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

The Absence Explained

2009-10-04T15:18:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry to all of you who have faithfully been checking this blog for information on Liberian adoptions, Alvin, or any updates at all. I (Melodie) am the one who manages the blog and I have been very, very sick recently. Thankfully I am on the road to recovery, but it has been a very difficult journey. If you would like, you may go to my personal blog to read the update I shared concerning my unexpected journey with illness.

-Melodie

In Memory of Lawrence...

2009-09-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

On August 28, 2009, we lost one of our precious orphans.

Four-year-old Lawrence passed peacefully from this life to the next (in the hospital), when (as far as we know), a fairly ordinary illness turned lethal in his fragile chest and lungs.

Lawrence had been at Acres of Hope for just over two years. Lawrence was abandoned at Acres of Hope by his mother, due to his severe limb and spine abnormalities, right before his second birthday.

(Lawrence, just less than two years ago.)

We are all devastated by this lost. There are so many questions in my mind right now. Yet God remains in control.

I still can't believe he is gone…

Patty Anglin (founder and director of AOH) had a very special relationship with Lawrence.

This is what she wanted to share:

I had just returned to my office after a busy day running from one place to another. We had a staff meeting scheduled and I headed for the conference room, but got distracted when hearing the whimpers of a baby. Lo and behold, under a chair in the waiting area was a little soul left abandoned, crying for someone to come to his rescue. As I looked down at this sweet hurting child I offered my arms to him as a refuge and protection from the harsh reality that he was left alone, likely never to see his familiar surroundings or mother again. He quickly responded by reaching his little arms out to me. As I picked him up, I felt a tear touch the side of my face. I held him close and whispered in his ear that God loved him and now so did I. There was a special bond that took place that day between Lawrence and me. God had entrusted me with one of His precious angels. I knew the road would not be easy for either of us as I committed to welcoming this little boy into my life.

God gives us the privilege of reaching out to those in need. What we get in return is the immense joy of experiencing God love and blessings as we strive to honor what He commands us to do. The road can be rough, the challenges many, but as we give of ourselves unselfishly, God promises His faithfulness and steadfast love through our journey of life. My comfort is knowing today, I did my best for God, and little Lawrence is resting in the arms of our loving Savior. I will miss my precious angel who touched my life in a profound way. For Lawrence...he is dancing with the angels in a perfect body. What joy to know his suffering is over. Lawrence's life brought a ray of sunshine for me and many others. I saw a baby grow into a sweet little boy and if only for a short time he helped me realize that God called me to reach out to the orphans in their time of distress. For us...we must remember there is still work to be done.

Little Angels

When God calls little children to dwell with Him above

we mortals sometime question the wisdom of His love.

For no heartache compares with, the death of one small child

who does so much to make our world, seem wonderful and mild.

Perhaps God tires of calling the aged to his fold

so He picks a rosebud before it can grow old.

God knows how much we need them, and so He takes but few

to make the land of Heaven more beautiful to view.

Believing this is difficult, still somehow we must try

the saddest word mankind knows will always be "Goodbye."

So when a little child departs, we who are left behind,

must realize God loves children, "Angels Are Hard To Find."

Love Forever,

Grandma Patty

Lawrence was matched with an adoptive family who loved him dearly and was anxiously waiting to bring him home. For reasons we can't explain, they will never see that day.

To the Son we never met,

You were such a hope to us in our quest to expand our family. We waited, anxiously at times, for that definitive word that said you would come and be our Son. That day was so joyous even with all your difficulties it didn't matter because together, with God at the helm, we would overcome them.

We showed your pictures to everyone who encompasses our family and they too prayed and dreamed of the day you would come and join us. People would ask, "Are you any closer to bringing your Son home?" Our response would be, "Only God Knows that answer."

We would hear stories of the joy and happiness you had and willingness to freely give hugs to everyone. We cherished those times for they helped us to hope and dared us to dream because you were in our hearts from the moment God spoke you there.

Now our Son, we must let you go to the Father's hands where you will bask in the glow of his unfailing and eternal love. Yes we will be sad that you couldn't come to be with us, but we understand what a great time you are having there, dancing with joy at the Father's feet.

We love you,

The Parents you never met.

Mommy

Daddy

& Brother Ben

Please remember those who loved Lawrence in prayer, including his adoptive family, the nannies and staff, and all the other AOH children. They have already lost so much, now they have lost a dear friend.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Alvin in America

2009-08-18T14:15:00.000-07:00

Now that Alvin is in America and safe with his new family, we will not be able to update the blog frequently like we were when he was in Liberia. But I will share any info I do come across. I know personally I really love to hear how the adopted kids are doing, and whenever possible, I have visited them in the states. Alvin's story is not finished yet and as I do receive updates I will be sure to post those here.

Alvin was able call Patty the other day and he just couldn't believe how clean the hospital was.

"Grandma, you wouldn't believe how clean it is!"

"Yes, I know, it is very clean."

"No, it's CLEAN."

Patty has been in many, many hospitals in her day, so she does know how clean an American hospital is, especially in comparison to a Liberian hospital! Alvin was also thrilled to have a TV in his room and enthralled by the wonder of a remote control.

Recently Alvin's adoptive mother shared that Alvin is in OK spirits but is missing his birth family and Patty. Alvin's new family is also hoping that he might be able to be moved to their home while he heals and waits for his reconstructive surgeries.

So now we know a little more specifically how to pray.

Alvin is a 13 year old so obviously completely remembers his life before he was adopted. He has a wonderful story to tell, and being adopted is his dream come true, but he will of course take some time to grieve the loss of his previous life. Please pray for a quick healing of his heart and that he will bond smoothly with his new family. Concerning his health, I can imagine the idea of a seemingly endless hospital stay is not very appealing to anyone right now. Also, the best way for Alvin to get to know his new parents and siblings is to be in a home setting (and it is much more interesting spending your days at home, as versus a hospital room). So pray with us that it would work for for Alvin to be at home while he gains more strength and waits for the doctors to make a decision on how to address his multiple open wounds.

Thanks again for following Alvin's story and to those of you who have prayed and donated financially. I know they still need money to be coming in towards the flight, so donate if you are able to. I will be sure to update the blog when all the money needed has come in.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Alvin's Miracle

2009-08-13T17:07:00.001-07:00

Two blind men were sitting by the roadside,

and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted,

"Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!"

The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet,

but they shouted all the louder,

"Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!"

Jesus stopped and called them.

"What do you want me to do for you?" he asked.

"Lord," they answered, "we want our sight."

Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes.

Immediately they received their sight and followed him.

(Matthew 20:30-34)

When Jesus came to earth as God made man, his purpose was to die on the cross for sinners - every human being that has ever lived. The sacrifice of a perfect person was the only acceptable offering for a righteous God. Because of Christ's suffering everyone who confesses their sin and accepts Jesus as their personal Savior can be saved from eternal damnation and look forward to an eternity with God in Heaven.

In Jesus' first recorded sermon he said

"The Spirit of the Lord is on me,

because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.

He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners

and recovery of sight for the blind,

to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."

(Luke 4:18-19)

Christ accomplished so much during his time on earth (before he died on the cross, then was raised back to life, and soon after ascended back to Heaven). Miracles were a major part of his ministry.

The purposes of Christ's miracles were twofold. "First, they revealed the sovereignty, power, and glory of God and of His Son. Second, they revealed mankind's desperate need. His healings expose the devastation caused by sin, as well as God's power and will to repair such sin-wrought desolation and wretchedness." Another way to look at the first purpose is that "miracles are the testimony of God as to the nature and person of Jesus Christ." Miracles confirmed that Jesus was who he said he was.

While Jesus is not walking the earth in visible, human form today, he is every bit as much present and involved in our lives as he was with the individuals he healed in the Bible.

When a 13-year-old boy from Liberia, West Africa, lay dying in a tuberculosis sanitarium, it seemed this child had been forgotten. When his bed sores had eaten away his flesh to the point that he bones and internal organs were visible, he could no longer walk, use the bathroom, roll over, or simply lay in a comfortable position, Alvin's future seemed hopeless, and death just around the corner.

On one of Patty's first visits to Alvin she thought he would die within a few days. Alvin asked Patty to sleep near him in the sanitarium (on the floor beside the bed) so that if Jesus came, when he saw a white person, He would be inclined to stop and see Alvin. Patty explained to Alvin that Jesus showed no preference for black or white skin, and then led Alvin through the plan of salvation, so that if Alvin were to pass away in the night, Jesus would indeed bring him home with Him to Heaven. Alvin accepted Jesus as his Savior that night and Patty slept on the hard cement floor beside him.

Alvin and his birth mom had been praying a long time for some way that Alvin's life could be spared. Some way for him to live the future he dreamed of and recover from his constant suffering. Through the ministry of Patty Anglin with Acres of Hope, Water of Life, various missionaries on the ground in Liberia, and a loving Christian family in America, the present day hands of Christ reached out to Alvin to save his precious life and bring him to a place where he can receive the most physical recovery possible on earth. Through this, along with financial donations, and the prayers of thousands of people, God has worked a modern day miracle in the life of a little child who thought he had been forgotten. Who thought Jesus only came to white people. Who thought his dreams to see life and a future in America would never come true.

Christ is still alive and well today, working in the lives of the great and the very, very small. I hope Alvin's story has convinced you that Jesus Christ is who he says he is, and he has great, great love and compassion for the physically suffering and spiritually lost.

As I stood watching Alvin's plane taxi toward the runway last night I realized I had just experienced one of those "once in a lifetime" days that you never, ever forget. Sometimes I just can't believe I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing in the hearts and lives of people here in Africa.

Here is Alvin's departure day in picture:

The flight ended up coming in late so Alvin left the country at about 5:50 PM (Wednesday, the 12th of August). It was raining most of the afternoon.

Unfortunately Patty was not able to actually come to the airport to see Alvin off as she had previously scheduled a really important meeting for Wednesday. This is the Alvin/Patty good bye picture. I love this one!

Leaving ELWA hospital.

Boarding the AOH ambulance.

He was very excited!

Roland from Water of Life saying his good byes.

Roland will see Alvin again soon since they

are (now) both from Greenville SC.

Alvin crying as the time approaches to

say good bye to his birth mother and siblings.

There it is!

Buster/Greg from AOH meeting the pilot and crew.

The pediatric nurse meeting Alvin and David, and discussing details.

The paramedic meeting Alvin.

Alvin's least favorite part.

Time to board!

One last smile for the camera before saying good bye.

The Jet ICU team was incredible and I know Alvin was in great hands.

This was Alvin's miracle.

Please remember to pray for Alvin's physical healing. He has a long road ahead of him. Also, continue to contribute to the flight fund, if you are able.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

In One Month

2009-08-13T07:55:00.001-07:00

Almost exactly one month ago a desperately ill 13 year old boy asked Patty Anglin if she could help him.

Almost exactly one month ago Patty thought Alvin would die and prepared him to meet Jesus.

Almost exactly one month ago Patty cried in my living room for a precious little boy she didn't know if she could do anything to help.

Yesterday Alvin's dream came true when through Patty's tireless efforts combined with the partnering of many other individuals and organizations, and most importantly, a wonderful adoptive family, Alvin flew home to America.

This picture was taken by Patty almost one month ago.

And I took this one yesterday, as Alvin laid in the bed on the air ambulance right before he left.

Alvin's story is a true testimony of what can happen when the Body of Christ comes together in obedience to the Bible's many commands of caring for the suffering, the needy, and the orphaned. And while Alvin's life has been saved (provided he recovers in America), we are also changed by our obedience.

The internet was down last night and I am working on writing up a long post of Alvin's departure day, but I wanted to share this with you as soon as I could.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Alvin's Flight Home

2009-08-12T03:43:00.000-07:00

The emergency medical flight is scheduled to come in at 2:45 this afternoon and should be leaving with Alvin approximately one hour later, after refueling. We are all so excited that Alvin is finally going home! This is truly a modern day miracle. Alvin leaving Liberia is the end of the beginning of Alvin's story.

I will be going to the airport with the Alvin in the AOH ambulance and plan to share all about the day (with pictures, of course) later this evening. God is so good and I am humbled to be a part of this amazing story.

Please remember to pray for Alvin on this last, though major, part of his journey home. He will be in the very best of hands on the air ambulance, but flight can be hard on the body and Alvin's health is very precarious. Also pray for wisdom and alertness for the flight crew, and strength for Alvin's biological mom as she says good bye. Only one other person is allowed to travel with the patient, so that will be Alvin's adoptive dad.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

We Have The Visa!!!!

2009-08-11T07:22:00.001-07:00

Praise the Lord we have Alvin's visa IN HAND as of just a few minutes ago! It was processed yesterday and Acres of Hope just picked it up. This means Alvin is free to leave the country and enter America! The air ambulance service has been notified and hopefully Alvin will be able to fly out tomorrow!!! I am really hoping I can be there to see Alvin off and of course take pictures that I can share with all of you who have become a part of Alvin's amazing story.

GOD IS GOOD!!!

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Orphanage Life

2009-08-09T14:17:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of our kids in their everyday lives.

The babies during playtime on the porch:

The kids during a rousing game of "Red Light Green Light":

Listening so nicely during story time in the morning:

Beating the drum for song and dance time:

Chillin' in the nursery:

Marveling at themselves in the screen of my sister's camera:

Game time in the courtyard:

Drawing a masterpiece on the magnadoodle:

Hanging out with friends:

Sitting at their cute desks:

I will be posting more pictures like these from time to time to give you a little glimpse into the lives of our orphans.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Alvin's Visa

2009-08-07T18:03:00.005-07:00

(This post was prepared for Friday night but due to no internet (again), it is late. My apologies.)

On the list of things to do today was to pick up Alvin's visa medical report, and then head on over to the embassy to process Alvin's United States visa. Well, as Patty was at the hospital picking up the report, the embassy called and said to head over as fast as they could as they would process Alvin's paperwork in 20 minutes (the embassy is about 20 minutes from this hospital, with zero traffic). Since this case is an emergency, and Alvin's paperwork represents Alvin the person, Patty felt this would be a time to use the AOH ambulance. So they were able to speed through traffic, park right in front of the embassy, and jump out. Only to be told sorry, they changed their minds and would process Alvin's paperwork on Monday instead. Patty reminded them that this was an emergency, but still they said it would have to be Monday. Oh well...at least they will be processing it at all (considering the nationwide moratorium on adoptions).

At this point we are hoping for Alvin to fly out on Tuesday, as it simply can't happen any sooner than that. The good news is we only have one more thing to do (acquire the visa) before Alvin will be cleared to travel to the US.

Again I ask that you would keep all these things in your prayers:

-Alvin's continued health

-That they would receive the visa on Monday as promised

-That the flight would arrive and leave as scheduled

-That the funds for the flight would come in

Thanks again for following Alvin's story. One day when this little boy, who thought he was forgotten, learns of all those who were fighting to get him home, he will realized how valued he is by God and us, His children.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Quick Flight Update

2009-08-07T03:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry there was no update last night. The internet was down (this is Africa, after all).

I just wanted to quickly update you on the emergency medical flight situation and hopefully later today I will have a more substantial post.

The flight plans are now final, only the plans have changed again. But this is good news since now the cost is only (only...wow) $79,000. Continue to share Alvin's needs with your friends and family and get the word out that Alvin is worth it!

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Flight Update! The Good And The Bad

2009-08-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

We have an emergency medical flight secured!! This is the good news. The bad news is the cost is $140,000. Unfortunately the other flight situation we were pursuing for much less is not going to work out. So get the word out! We need to raise much, much more than we had anticipated. If you are able to donate even $5 it will make a difference.

Alvin's adoptive dad, along with Patty (and possibly some other AOH staff) will be flying home with him on the emergency medical flight.

Paperwork is being processed and we are hoping to have Alvin out of here on Saturday. Alvin is hanging in there but as I mentioned before; he could take a turn for the worse at any moment. But we are trusting that God will spare Alvin and that he will be able to make it to his new family and the care he needs in the US. We are trusting that the staggering amount of $140,000 raised will be a great testimony of the Body of Christ coming together to save one of God's precious children. We are trusting that Alvin will grow to be a great testimony of God's goodness to the least of these, the seemingly forgotten. Don't loose your opportunity to become a part of this amazing story! Click here to donate now (specify "Alvin's Flight").

ALVIN IS WORTH IT!!!

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Levi

2009-08-04T05:17:00.000-07:00

Meet Levi. Levi Hope, as Patty named him.

The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare placed Levi with Acres of Hope in March of 2007. He was abandoned in a local hospital. Abandonment of children, especially special needs children, is all too common here in Liberia.

(Levi, March '07, right before he was placed in our orphanage.)

Levi still does not have an adoptive family.

We don't know exactly how old Levi is, since he was found abandoned, but when he came to us

almost two and a half years ago, doctors said he was about 18 months old. Levi has been diagnosed with moderate to severe cerebral palsy, along with extreme developmental delays and microcephaly (and a few other possible problems). In my observation he behaves like a 2-3 month old. He is easy to please, eats a lot, and loves to be sung to. Levi's adoption fees have been reduced by $2000.

(Levi in October of 2007.)

When a Liberian mother of a child with severe special needs realizes her baby is not developing normally, and he is getting bigger and bigger, she has to find a solution for his care. (There is no way your average poverty-stricken Liberian woman can make an honorable living while having to care for a severely handicapped child at the same time). Healthy, normal children are abandoned as well, though this is not as common and usually it is small babies. Teen mothers, or simply those who feel they are unable to care for their child, will abandoned their babies under market tables, in boxes floating down rivers, or even on garbage piles or buried in a hole in the ground. It is a very sad reality. Poverty brings people do to do things one would never imagine in good conditions. Illiteracy, and a vast lack of Biblical training makes the options for these desperate women seem very few. Those who abandon their babies in hospitals actually love them. They know that the child will probably be placed in an orphanage, which is much more loving than leaving them on a garbage pile where they will die if no one finds them in time. (A newborn baby in our neighborhood was abandoned on a garbage pile a couple years ago. Unfortunately no one discovered her in time…)

The wonderful thing about adoption is that it gives these desperate single mothers (and sometimes fathers) a loving option for their children. Some people are surprised to learn our orphans usually have one living (or present) parent. But as you can see, adoption in Liberia is offering a loving option to those mothers who feel there is no way they can provide their child with the care they deserve and need to survive (like Alvin's mother). Adoption truly saves lives.

Though physically Levi's body is broken, he is a beautiful child that God has created for a purpose. His handicaps were not an accident and God has a plan for this little boy's life. While Levi will never be "normal" he is a testimony of God's love for the least of these, as his life was preserved, he was placed with an adoption agency, and God's children have become His hands and feet to care for this needy little one. The family who adopts Levi will be storing up treasure in Heaven (Matthew 6:19-20) as they give to someone who will never be able to repay them (Luke 14:13-24), as they reach out to the least of these with God's love (Matthew 25:40), and as they seek justice for the orphaned (Isaiah 1:17). Those who live in light of eternity are the wise ones on this earth.

Because of Alvin the Liberian government has decided to start processing special needs children for adoption, in spite of the moratorium. A homestudy ready family could bring Levi home very soon, if everything were to go as speedily and smoothly as we hope. Do you know of a family who could bring Levi home?

Is it you???

Contact Patty at aoh.savinglives@gmail.com for more information.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Alvin and His New Dad

2009-08-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today Alvin's adoptive dad spent the whole day at the hospital with his new son. I was able to drop by after my Bible study and visit. Alvin is of course so excited that he is here. He had his dad's camera hanging around his neck and he was taking pictures. Very cute.

When you see this beautiful little boy sitting in his wheelchair, covered with a blanket, it is easy to forget what is underneath and what Alvin has to sit on. Thankfully Alvin said the chest pain is going away. Remember to keep Alvin's health in your prayers as any day he could take a turn for the worse. We are so close to getting him home!

We are moving as fast as we can to get Alvin out of here, but it still feels as if it isn't fast enough. This is Africa so things are moving at an "Africa" pace. We are still waiting on the Ministry of Health to process Alvin's paperwork before it is then transfered to the next step (Ministry of Justice) and then the next...We are very grateful for Mr. Gebro, the acting Minister of Health, and his assistant Lydia, for focusing on Alvin's case last weekend and this week. Patty continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health on behalf of Alvin and our other special needs kids, like Secret.

As far as the flight is concerned, there is still much that needs to be done. As is common, all the money needs to be given up front before the flight can arrive. This is an area you can focus on now while AOH works out all the other details. If you will note on the right side of the blog I have added a fundraising thermometer so you can monitor the funds as they come in. I will update that as often as I am able to. You can also click on Alvin's picture to easily donate towards his flight and his in country medical expenses.

I will soon be sharing about some of our other special needs kids, including two that are available for adoption, and another story about Acres of Hope's medical outreach ministry. Stay tuned for those stories along with the Alvin updates.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Quick Alvin Update

2009-08-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

Alvin's adoptive father made it safely into the country! He has already been able to visit Alvin. Alvin was very happy to see him, but a little nervous at the same time. Alvin's birth mom prayed over the occasion and Alvin sang his new dad an entire African praise song! Isn't that so precious?!?!?!

Please continue to keep this whole situation in your prayers. Every aspect of this process involves many steps:

-We are still awaiting confirmation for the less expensive flight.

-Tomorrow the processing begins for the adoption and that needs to go fast and smoothly.

-Alvin needs to remain strong physically.

-We need to raise a lot of money for the flight. Please donate towards this cause by clicking here, if you are able.

I do have a lot of faith that all of this will work out in time for Alvin to make it safely to the US, especially since the hardest part has been accomplished (getting the adoption approved), but everyone needs to continue to pray for Alvin and every aspect of getting him home.

-Melodie (AoH Volunteer)

"The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective!"

2009-08-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

"Therefore confess your sins to each other

and pray for each other so that you may be healed.

The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."

James 5:16

It is with extreme gratitude to God that I share today that Alvin's adoption has been granted! Patty's persistence with the Ministry of Health has payed off. The acting Minister of Health wrote a letter to the President and the Minister of Justice, asking special permission for Alvin to be adopted. We are so grateful for Mr. Gebro's willingness to address the President on this issue. We received word that the President was brought to tears after hearing about Alvin and looking at the pictures.

Alvin's adoptive dad will be arriving in Liberia tomorrow night. We look forward to the beginning of next week being a very busy time processing the adoption, visa, and moving Alvin out of the country!

We want to thank those who have been researching medical flight options for us. At first we were pretty discouraged when the quote for medevac was coming in at over $100,000. The next idea was down to $80,000...which was better. But are delighted that we have found a medical flight that would be willing to come in for $25,000! (IF the UN can write a letter saying that the airport is safe for private planes to land in.)

So in addition to praying for Alvin's health, please pray that the finalization of Alvin's adoption will go smoothly and fast, that the plane will be able to land in Liberia's airport, and that we would be able to raise the $25,000 for the flight cost.

Please donate whatever you can spare towards Alvin's emergency medical flight. Through PayPal you can do that right away. Just click here.

Brothers and sisters in Christ, do you SEE what our God can do through the power of prayer!?

GOD IS GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Send up those prayers!

2009-07-31T09:18:00.001-07:00

I just got off the phone with Patty and she had a VERY positive meeting with the acting Minister of Health and Social Welfare. Nothing is for sure yet, so we need a lot of prayers going up that those with the power to do so will grant Alvin permission to go!

Alvin is still experiencing chest pains. Our goal is to have him out of here on Wednesday. Please, please, PLEASE pray this happens!

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Alvin and Secret

2009-07-30T16:44:00.000-07:00

Alvin is hanging in there...though he is still experiencing chest pain. Please continue to pray that he will get over this infection and be able to sleep in the night (that is when he is in the most pain). Thankfully he has been eating well and appeared to be in good spirits when I visited him today.

(Look at that face... I can't imagine suffering what he is going through!)

Unfortunately there were no major breakthroughs today. Alvin is miraculously hanging in there and AOH keeps plugging away at everything that needs to be done for him to be adopted.

Alvin was thrilled today to see his passport! It is a tangible step in the right direction for this 13 year old. I was able to visit Alvin today and read him a few chapters of a book I gave him the other day (actually a children's book my mom has written about Liberia). He seems to be enjoying the story and is very happy for visits from those he knows.

Patty will be meeting with Lydia from the Ministry of Health tomorrow concerning Alvin.

In this fight for Alvin we are not forgetting about Secret, one of our abandoned special needs babies that was placed with us by the Ministry of Health. Secret has hydrocephalus, a very serious medical condition that will lead to his death without medical intervention that is not available in Liberia. Secret is also running out of time. He has an adoptive family waiting to bring him home. Despite the nationwide moratorium on adoption, we hope the government will have compassion on Alvin and Secret, and any others like them, before it is too late.

Please remember our fund set up for Alvin to assist with the many expenses involved in this process and his care. Also we still have not been able to find a good flight option. Please continue to keep all these things in your prayers.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

"I want to live. Help me live."

2009-07-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

Alvin is still experiencing chest pain (most likely an infection). He had trouble sleeping again last night due to this new problem that developed a few days ago.

It seems that with each step we make forward, Alvin makes a step backwards in his health. Acres of Hope is making progress but the government of Liberia is going to have to move fast if Alvin is going to make it to the US on time.

Last night Patty met with Honorable Gaye, who is the Chairman of the Health and Social Welfare Committee in the House of Representatives. They discussed Alvin's situation, then went together to visit the boy at the hospital. Though it is great that Honorable Gaye has expressed concern, there is still a lot that needs to happen before Alvin has completed the necessary steps to make it to his new family in the states. We are praying Honorable Gaye uses all the influence he has, especially considering Alvin and Honorable Gaye are from the same village.

I personally have been very impressed with all Alvin's mother has done to save her son's life. Alvin and his mother are the ones who asked Acres of Hope to advocate for them before the government. Alvin has called officials himself, begging them to do what is in their power to get him the help he needs. When Alvin met Honorable Gaye last night he bravely told him "I want to live. Help me live." Can you imagine fighting for your own life like that? And at 13!

Our organization has continued to be in contact with the appropriate government offices and officials. Some good news is we now have his passport! Roland with Water of Life and Alvin's mother were able to get the passport today in record timing! We are so grateful to have Roland around, specifically today by driving Alvin's mother around. Alvin's mother is actively taking part in this process in the hopes that Alvin will finally make it to America. She knows the only possible way to save her sons life is care outside of the country, specifically life long medical care in the United States.

An independent journalist has also been following Alvin's case and is writing a story about the sadness of losing a little special needs boy named Matthew, in the hopes that Alvin's case won't be a repeat of this tragedy.

We have been looking into emergency flights for Alvin and so far what we have found is shockingly and impossibly expensive. Keep praying that we will find a feasible option for Alvin's flight, for when he is granted the approval to go.

Again remember to pray for Alvin's health, the approval that Alvin still needs to receive before adoption, and that we would find a safe and speedy way to get Alvin to his family in America.

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Alvin Update

2009-07-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

Alvin is dying.

Have you thought about Alvin like that? As you see his picture in the comfort of your home, from the screen of your computer, has that hit you? As it is we don't know how Alvin has survived this long. But last night Alvin was awake - and crying - most of the night due to a new pain. Chest pain. No doubt he has developed some infection in his chest due to the many hours each day he spends lying down. He is receiving care from a hospital, and we advised him on the importance of spending as much time as possible sitting up (can you imagine sitting when your butt and hips were in that condition???) but the fact remains, Alvin is dying. Each day his risk for not making it is increased. Each day his health becomes more precarious. Each day he cries his little heart out, as his dream of a long life filled with family, friends - a future, dwindles along with his health.

What if this were your friend, your relative, your brother…your child? What lengths would you go to ensure his survival? How much money would you spend and how much emotional energy would you expend just to save his life? Alvin's birth mom is doing everything she can to save the life of her little boy. In the end, supposing Alvin survives long enough to be adopted, she will always - always - miss him. But "missing" him is far better than watching him die. Than knowing you did everything you could…yet it wasn't enough. To ACHE for your loss. This is the horrible dilemma far too many parents in Africa are faced with. But by God's grace, there may be a way for Alvin to be saved. By God's grace, Alvin's mother knew of some place to go for help. Acres of Hope. Acres of Hope and other similar organizations in Liberia are fighting to save the lives of desperate children. Many, many, many of the children don't make it. Sometimes help isn't found before it's too late. Sometimes they don't make it out of the country to better medical care in time. Right now many people are fighting for Alvin. We are doing everything we know to do to save this child. Will you join us in this fight? Will you pray for Alvin and the many children like him who are desperate for help? And when Alvin either dies or makes it to the states with his adoptive family, will you fight to save the others? God has allowed Alvin to suffer this terrible condition for a reason. Search your hearts…go before the Lord in prayer. Ask yourself and God what reason He has allowed you to stumble across Alvin's story.

"The righteous care about justice for the poor,

but the wicked have no such concern."

Proverbs 29:7

Yesterday I was able to meet with Alvin again. I wanted to get him ice cream, which is sold in carts around town, but I had to meet with one of the ladies I am counseling before meeting with Alvin. When I got to the hospital lo and behold - there was an ice cream cart! Needless to say Alvin was happy to get the treat! I spent about an hour with Alvin sharing stories of Jesus, his love for those in need, and how he stooped down to heal those in the most desperate condition. How he touched the diseased with his bare hands. How he loves his children immeasurably. Though Alvin sees people fighting to save his life, his condition is so horrible and

something he has to deal with every moment of every day, it is easy for him to get discouraged. Alvin needs to be reminded daily of how much Jesus loves him and how Jesus is fighting for Alvin, even when he may not be able to see progress from day to day. Right as I was finishing Patty and my mother showed up! You should have seen the grin that spread across Alvin's face when he saw his Grandma Patty walk in! He loves her so much…and Patty loves Alvin like her own child.

Roland from Water of Life arrived last night. He and his organization are ready to do whatever they can to help get Alvin the help he needs. What an encouragement for Alvin to see this person who has come all the way from America to help him.

Also super exciting for Alvin was to receive pictures and a Bible Story book sent by his new family.

Alvin is a very, very strong boy. As his body wastes away day by day, he still manages to put a smile on his face. As his bare bones are being sprayed with alcohol during the changing of his dressings, he gasps and grunts, but doesn't cry. He is a fighter. He wants to live.

Please do what you can to help him. Do what is in your power to help us, who are on the ground, save him.

The first thing all of you can do is PRAY. Pray for Alvin and the process that needs to be completed before Alvin can make it to life saving medical care in the US. Pray for his health. That he would gain enough strength to travel to the US. That is chest pains would go away and is intestines would not actually fall out of his back (they are visible now, but still in his body).

You can GIVE. Donate towards Alvin's needs through paypal by clicking here.

Finally, don't be afraid to shoot an EMAIL to aoh.savinglives@gmail.com with any info you have that could be of use for getting Alvin to the US. Specifically we are in need of an emergency flight, a more direct flight, or any form of air transport that will get Alvin the most speedily and safely to the US.

Please become a part of Alvin's story.

"Learn to do right!

Seek justice, encourage the oppressed.

Defend the cause of the fatherless,

plead the case of the widow."

Isaiah 1:17

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

Keep Praying For Alvin!

2009-07-24T16:36:00.000-07:00

We continue to work very hard on Alvin's behalf. Patty has been to many offices, called many prominent individuals, and written many letters. Alvin's birth mom has gone personally to some of the most important offices to advocate for the life of her precious son. At least one other organization is officially stepping in to help us. We are doing everything we know to do...We just pray in the end it is enough to save Alvin.

I (Melodie) was able to spend about an hour counseling Alvin today. I am trained in Biblical counseling and it is my joy to bring hope to the hurting. It was hard at first for little ol' me, who has faced little to no "real" suffering in my life, to counsel Alvin on suffering and the Believer, death, and Heaven. Yet thankfully I am counseling from the everlasting truths of the Word of God, and not my own personal experiences. I teared up at the beginning (being more sensitive after seeing his dressings being changed) and then his mother started tearing up, and then Alvin, in classic teenager fashion said "You aren't going to cry again Mom, are you?" Alvin is very intelligent and I spoke to him as if he were an adult. He really listened to what I had to say, was alert and responsive to my questions, and had a really good question of his own at the end. What a privilege to play this small part in Alvin's story.

The sore on Alvin's lower back has deteriorated to the point that some of his intestine is visible and the nurses have to be extra careful when dressing the sores so the intestines don't come out! A wonderful nurse's aid, who happens to be the wife of a very dear friend of my family (who we know from the Baptist Mid Mission's Bible school) came back to work from sick leave and immediately took up the task of changing Alvin's dressings - a job the rest of the nurses refused to do (the doctor had been changing them up till now). What a blessing for me to walk in and see Lucy caring so tenderly for this special boy. I can really see God leading many people to help Alvin.

Alvin has been so sweet during all of this. He called Patty today telling her how worried he was about how hard she was working to fight for him, how he thought she was loosing a lot of weight and clearly stressing about Alvin's condition. Here he is, wasting away, worried about the healthy person who is trying to save him! He really is such a sweet boy.

We would like to emphasize again the fund we have set up for Alvin. The money received will go towards things like his medical care in country, travel expenses to get him out of the country, and medical expenses in the US. Click here to donate.

Please continue to pray for Alvin:

-That he will continue to be strong and corageous through this horrible trial.

-That he will not deteriorate any more physically, and he would gain more weight and become stable enough for travel.

-That those fighting for Alvin will know who to go to and what to say.

-That God would move the hearts of those who have the power to let Alvin travel to the USA.

Thank you for following Alvin's story and for keeping him in your prayers!

-Melodie (AoH Volunteer)

Alvin Update

2009-07-23T17:00:00.000-07:00

Praise the Lord, an adoptive family has stepped forward for Alvin! While this is wonderful, we are running out of time. Alvin's condition is deteriorating rapidly and this is a holiday weekend, meaning it will be hard to get any paperwork done (already we have faced difficulties regarding this). We are looking into any option we can to get Alvin the medical care he needs, whether that means flying him to another African country first, medevac or a new idea. We don't think he would be able to travel far in his current condition. Please continue to pray for Alvin! He really wants to live and it is breaking his heart to hear, yet gain, that we have not been able to find a life saving solution to his problems.

If you know of any information or organization that may be able to help, please email aoh.savinglives@gmail.com right away.

-Melodie (AoH Volunteer)

EMERGENCY! Please Help Alvin!!!

2009-07-22T04:45:00.000-07:00

WARNING - Graphic medical pictures below-

This is a little boy named Alvin who is in critical condition. Alvin is 13 years old and previously had Tuberculosis of the spine. Alvin was successfully treated at the TB Annex in Congo Town but due to complications of his illness, remained there much longer than his treatment required. While Alvin was so sick, lying in bed for so long, he developed bedsores. These bedsores grew and grew until the flesh was eaten away and now bone is visible! Alvin has bedsores on both hips, his lower back and between his knees. His bed sore on his right hip is so bad that all the muscle has wasted away, his hip has been dislocated, and his femur bone actually slips out of his body about once a day and has to be pushed back in by a doctor! I don't know how Alvin is even still alive.

Alvin is available for adoption and is in need of an adoptive home. He needs help ASAP, which means the family needs to be homestudy ready and have a hospital and insurance lined up for his care. Patty has been working very hard to save this little boy's life and has put together a plea for him here in Liberia. Thankfully, the government is ready to push his case through if we can find an adoptive home.

If Alvin can't leave Liberia soon, an American surgeon feels he should remove Alvin's right leg at the hip, since the ball and joint are no longer together. He also said he would use the skin from the leg he removes to cover some of the other bad areas that need skin grafting.

Alvin is a very sweet boy. He is smart, can read, and loves school and learning. He is described as a peacemaker and knows the Lord as his personal Savior. Based on what we know of Alvin it is clear he is a very special boy and would be a huge blessing to an adoptive family.

Right now he is grieving because he was told that his leg would probably have to come off. Please pray for this young man that God would give him the strength necessary to face the challenges of loosing his leg, if it comes to that. Also pray that if it is God's will, He would provide another way to save Alvin's life, and that he would one day have complete healing. If you can help Alvin or know anyone who might be able to help, please send an email to aoh.savinglives@gmail.com as quickly as possible. A fund has been send up to support Alvin's medical needs. Click here to donate towards that through paypal, or email the address above for more details or another form of payment.

Below are some pictures of Alvin and his condition. We did not know if we should share these pictures since they are so awful, yet - this is Alvin's reality. Why should you sit comfortably on your computer by not having to look at something so nasty, while Alvin has to face every moment of his day suffering like this?

The watermark I put on the blog pictures says "Acres of Hope...where new life begins..." Please pray with me that Alvin would have a chance for new life...

-Melodie (AOH Volunteer)

"Right Over"

2009-07-21T02:10:00.000-07:00

The kids at our orphanage LOVE playing outdoor games.

The Laird family has been coming over on Saturdays to play with the kids (which the kids love, of course) and I go over every Wednesday with my 13 year old brother Jared and 14 year old sister Heidi. When we go over on Wednesdays our time with the kids involves game time:

story time (the kids also really enjoy stories and looking at pictures):

and then spending time holding and playing with the babies in the baby room.

Probably the kids' all time favorite game is Red Rover. Now in Liberian English (which is actually quite different, in my opinion, than American English), and with a Liberian accent, Red Rover is very hard to say. So the words that actually come out sound more like "right over" then "red rover". The other day as we were playing this game, the kids were shouting to their friends "Right over, right over, we call Mercy over!" and I realized they think the game is called "Right Over"! After all, what is a "red rover" anyway, and why wouldn't the game be called "right over" since that's what they are doing; calling someone over to their side!?

-Melodie, AOH Volunteer

We have a blog!

2009-07-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Acres of Hope blog! We decided to start a blog to keep adoptive parents, supporters, and anyone interested in our ministry, regularly updated on our day to day activities. We hope to post at least once a week. Thanks for stopping by!