January 2008

Mongolia, a developing country, has undergone many changes since the fall of Communism in the early 90's. Mongolians may now have dreams, and pursue them. In particular, dreams are directed towards sharing the gospel in a way that meets a societal need. The staff at Hope Hospice responds to a great need, end-of-life care in Mongolia.

 

With the guidance of Interserve Canada, partnering with joint Christian Services in Mongolia, I was able to work for six months at Hope Hospice, which has been an honor. I have valued the opportunity to come alongside the hospice workers to observe, then to work at their skill and resource level. It was a challenge to demonstrate a sustainable approach. I needed wisdom. Working as the sole foreigner in an unfamiliar, foreign-run institution was not easy. God, in His grace revealed in comforting ways, my need to come to Him first, finding my identity in Him, and not in my work.

 

The Lord answered my prayers and provided direction. My major focus was wound care.  I was able to model, teach and create learning materials for this.   In the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, where I was working, I was able to seek the wisdom of other foreign nurses. We were an encouragement to each other, and while socializing, were also able to share ideas. Bed-ridden patients were in need of personal care items such as bed soakers and sheep booties, that were not financially available to Mongolians. With the co-operation of local volunteers willing to sew, and the purchase of local materials, other foreign nurses and I were able to distribute these resources. Mongolian needs often seem overwhelming, yet we can also thrive on the challenges, and respond to them.

 

Dr. Altankhyuag, the hospital director and a visionary, glows with joy as he recalls the history of Hope Hospice. As he has many stories of lives transformed by the power of Christ, he also looks to the future and envisions more possibilities. Numerous needs remain in order to keep the project operating. Whereas hospice care depends upon donations, the government of Mongolia remains unwilling to fund it. Dr. Altankhyuag

and staff continue to strive to provide quality care. They believe in their work. The hospice staff is a living example of how God shapes those who seek Him to become what He has intended, His servants. Thus our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be glorified.