Sometimes It's Hard Work

Good medical care in Haiti is so hard to find.  And the problem is compounded by the inability to pay (there are so many factors that go into that).  So, with the inability to pay, quality advanced medical care is almost non-existent for most of my patients.

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Miriole came to the maternity clinic on February 19th for the first time.  She did not have any children yet. 

During the course of her care the numbers were just not adding up.  It was a shock to her to find out that she was having twins (although she herself was a twin)!  She continued to receive prenatal vitamins and Iron supplements during Covid while I was gone. 

A few weeks ago, she started to have some mild health issues.  They continued until it was obvious that she was developing pre-eclampsia, and would most likely not be able to carry the babies to term. 

She located a doctor so that she could be prepared in the event she needed a C-section — for her own safety, as well as that of her babies. 

After visiting the OB/GYN surgeon who would do the C-section, she said he never said a word about her pre-eclampsia.  It was obvious with her headaches, high blood pressure, and severe swelling that she had a serious problem. 

We decided that the OBGYN may not be the best choice to allow to do surgery on her—especially since it was probably time for her to have her babies, and he was planning to wait until closer to her due date. 

We made arrangements for her at a different hospital, and she had her C-section that same day.  She and the babies did very well! 

The babies remained in the hospital for 10 days because of some issues as they were about 3 weeks early and twins.

Double the blessing!

Shnailens (boy) and Shnailie (girl) were both 1.9 kg (4.18 lbs) at birth.  She has gained a little weight while he is just a little below his birth wait.  We are working with mom on breast feeding for preemies in the hope that the twins will both do well now that they are out of the hospital.

(Sadly hospitals do not allow breast feeding most of the time.)  Please be praying for Miriole, Shnailens, and Shnailie as they still have a lot of obstacles in front of them while trying to do life in Haiti.

The education time at Maternity clinic always seems to run long and I know the moms get tired of listening to me…  but, there is still so much work to be done. 

The #1 causes of death in Haiti for a woman of child bearing age is pregnancy and delivery complications.  A long time ago the death rate for children was 1 in 5 before the age of 5 (20%).  That number has not improved much over the years.

We always encourage moms to come back after delivery so we can assist them with any problems and to gauge the success of the program by the outcome of the pregnancy and delivery.  One mom came back the other day for her follow up.  And, many of the things we worked on were still not being done.

This is baby “John Doe.”  Mom said that Dad had named the child but she does not remember what it was.  Sadly, there often seems to be a detachment between mom and baby.  I think this is a defense mechanism for mom given the chance her baby may not survive.  She was doing a very poor job of breast feeding him. 

The baby was also 11 days old and he had yet to have a bath.  Mom said that she was told that if you bathe a baby before their soft spot closes, and they’ll get water in their brain. 

Thinking I could prove her theory wrong in her own mind I asked her if she had ever witnessed this actually happen before?  She said she’d seen it — with. friend’s baby.  I realized that bathing a baby was associated with babies with Hydrocephalus (a slowly enlarging head due to the inability for spinal fluid to drain).  So, we worked on several things with mom to help her understand and care for her baby better. 

When I snapped a picture of him my first thought was “I see that hand!”  Like a preacher responding to someone in church who acknowledged what the message was about.  I felt like he was saying “with your help and hard work, I believe I will survive!!”

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I got to clinic early the other day, and there was some work going on in the back.  I was amazed to watch them cut a 2x4 board down he middle.  Normally, it would be a 30-second job to rip a 2x4.  But in Haiti, things are often a lot of work.  He was cutting a 20-foot board in half with a hand saw.

Defiantly hard work

I don’t know how long he had been working before I got there but he worked a long time on this project.  Sometime things in life aren’t easy.  But we have to do our best with what we have at the time.

—

Work in Haiti continues, despite all the problems!  Covid is still lurking around.  There have been fuel shortages again.  Protests continue (which is becoming a normal thing in America too).  In Haiti, the last three weeks, the value of the U.S. dollar has dropped by half!  This means that my cost on everything has doubled.  It is unknown how long this could last.  Long term, this will be a big budget issue.

I thank you for your support of Kelby’s Kids.  You are bringing hope to so many, and saving the lives of some of the most vulnerable! If you have been on the fence about supporting Kelby’s Kids, now would be a great time for a one-time gift or a monthly partnership. 

This world is a broken place.  But if you look closely there is still a lot of hope as well, and some of it goes on in a little clinic in Port-au-Prince Haiti — and you are a part of it!

Until No Child Dies

Kelby 

It's so good to be back!!

I am back in Haiti!!  It’s good to be back after so long away. 

This was the first time coming into Haiti in 17 years that I had trouble with customs. 

It’s obvious that people are having trouble getting by these days. Customs threatened to take away all of the prenatal vitamins and Iron supplements that I brought back for the maternity clinic.  They said it was illegal (which they’re not).  You can order from Amazon in Haiti and they are all available on Amazon.  So, after some “negotiations” I was allowed to keep the vitamins. Good news for my Mamas!!

It’s been slower getting back to things this time since the clinics are not operating normally yet. 

This is a good thing as it’s been more difficult than usual to readjust to the heat this time.  My first night back it was 96 in my room when I went to sleep. It only dropped to 88 by morning.  The concrete holds so much heat that radiates out of the ceiling and walls all night.

Today (Sunday) tropical storm Laura came though Haiti.  There has been a fair amount of rain and some wind, but nothing bad where I am.  Port-au-Prince (PAP) was outside of the direct path.  There has been the typical flooding that comes with any significant rain, though. So, for many, it’s been difficult with the lack or drainage and flood control.  The rain has cooled things off, though, and the temperatures today have been wonderful!

I have seen all of the patients that are still involved in maternity, malnutrition, and wound care.  The newborn check-ups are always one of the best things.

This is little Jean Paul. He was born the day before my birthday on July 20th! He is a healthy 9.7 lbs today!!

The clinics will move back to the normal location on September 1 and new patients will be accepted again.  Medical clinic will be delayed until Corona seems to be mostly in check (so we don’t become an exposure site).

—

In May of 2019 Elisee Donlove lit a candle in his house not realizing there was a can of gasoline in the room.  The gas flashed over and burned his home down.  He had burns to his face, chest, back arms and legs. 

He lived out in Jeremie, in the southern peninsula.  The worst of the burns were to his chest, left shoulder and back.  He came to PAP four months later began looking for additional medical care. 

Karen let him stay at her compound.  We continued treating his burns in the wound care program.  He was unable to find additional medical care in PAP.  He was very self-conscious of his burns which have now completely healed, but left a lot of scares. 

The other day I was planning to go to the store with Jackenson.  Jackenson asked me if I could do something for someone.  I said, “Sure. What?”  He said Donlove wants to go with us. 

Jackenson told me Donlove bought new clothes the day before and he’s ready to go out (he hadn’t worn a shirt for about 14 months!). 

The next day we loaded up and headed to the grocery store.  On the way we talked about him going out.  He said it has been 11 months and 2 days since he had been more than a few steps outside of Karen’s compound.  He was thrilled to be out driving around the city.  At the store we got the things I needed and I told him he could pick a drink and snack.  He was very excited to get a bottle of Pepsi and a pack of cookies.

On the way home Jackenson let him set up in the front seat.  We started talking about the experience and found out this was the first time in his 21 years that he had ever been to a grocery store or pushed a shopping cart.  He had only used open street markets. He couldn’t believe all the food inside.  It also was the first time he had ever worn a seatbelt in a vehicle.

Donlove and I after our big adventure around town!!

It was such a blessing to be able to take him out and give him a little taste of freedom as well as some new experiences.  He plans to stay in PAP for a while.  Please pray that he will continued to get better use of his left shoulder and that he doesn’t deal with too much discrimination from his injury (which is part of the fear that’s kept him inside).  People here often look down on anyone who’s “different” or has a disability. Many people believe disabilities are a result of evil in your life.

That night at dinner Jackenson said that he was telling everyone the many details of his exciting day out with me.  He told them “Kelby must have just bought a bunch of ice because it was so cold in his car!”  So apparently it was also his first exposure to air-conditioning!!

—

“Thank you” never seems like enough to say for your support of this ministry.  I can’t do this without you!  I hope you can have a sense of how thankful Donlove is, not just for the trip out on the town, but for the months of care that has allowed him to heal so that he can feel comfortable going back out into society.  Because of you, lives are being changed, and they are forever grateful!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby 

"When Is Kelby Coming Back?"

I wanted to thank you again for your amazing support of the “Stock the Clinic” campaign that we just finished! 

Our goal was to raise $5,000.00. And the grand total for campaign was $6,457.00!!  You are all such a blessing to me — as well as to the people of Haiti!!  If you did not get a chance to give and would like to, it’s not too late.  The need in Haiti is never-ending and ever-increasing.

I have an airline ticket for August 12th and will be returning to Haiti then barring any unforeseen problems. 

I have just about everything I need to take back with me. I have purchased almost $2,000.00 worth of medications and supplies here (ones not available in Haiti). This includes over 16,000 pills. And they sure weigh a lot!

I have several boxes ready to ship and will ship them this week. So, hopefully, they arrive in Haiti just after I do. 

It will cost several hundred dollars, but is really the only option I have. Almost no teams traveled to Haiti last year (and they often bring supplies with them).  Then there will be a lot of supplies and prescriptions medications that I’ll need to purchase once I’m in Haiti. This helps not only to educe shipping costs, but it helps support the Haitian economy.

—

Things continue to be difficult for almost everyone in Haiti. 

The Haitian dollar still continues to lose value. That makes food prices go up. Electricity has been very scarce lately. People are going 5, 10, or even 15 days at a time with no city power. 

There is also a diesel shortage. So, there’s no fuel to run the generators. 

Covid-19 continues and people continue to be very scared of it. So, very few people are being tested. But everyone knows it’s a big issue.  The people continue to be upset with the government. So, protesting is still happening. And the list of difficulties goes on.

The other day when I was talking to people in Haiti, they said that every single day (and usually several times a day) people knock on the gate and say “is Kelby here” or “when is Kelby coming back?” 

It’s sad for me to think of the need and to know that those people are getting no help with medical care. 

I am looking forward to getting the maternity, malnutrition, and wound care back up and running.  It will probably be some time though before the general medical clinic is able to be opened — due to the increased risk of people coming in with Covid-19 and exposing others. Especially since there is little we can do for them.  

Just a little cuteness to draw you in to read the blog!!

While a break is always a good thing this time in Michigan has been rather difficult. When I leave on August 12th, I will have been in Michigan for 138 days. This is by far the longest I have been away from Haiti since moving there in November of 2016. 

I also feel like this has been a very unproductive time. While I am thankful that I was able to sell my house and will be taking possession of my new little condo on August 3, there is so much more that didn’t happen.

This was the first year since 1996 that I have not worked with kids at summer camp. 

I have long-enjoyed being the medical staff at summer camp and youth events. Many people couldn’t figure out why I liked taking vacation time from work to work but it wasn’t like working the street with EMS.  It was a blessing to occasionally use the skills God has given me when necessary. But it was an even bigger blessing to daily be able to take a little scrape (which probably didn’t even need a Band-Aid), and for a few moments, pour into a kid and make them feel like they were important and valued. 

It usually didn’t take long to recognize the broken kids. Because they required the most band-aids during the week. And, often times, for “scrapes” and “bumps” you couldn’t see (at least not on the outside anyway).

I am looking forward to the 2021 summer camping season to be able to put some more Band-Aids on hearts with boo boo’s!

This is without question the longest I have ever gone since starting my career in EMS in 1990 without helping a patient.  That’s not easy when that is what you do and who you are.  I am thankful for technology. Since returning to Michigan, I’ve been able to do some Tele-Medicine.  It has been good to continue to help in Haiti through technology, although screen time is never the same as actually patient care. 

A previous malnutrition patient came last week after burring his hand and arm. They waited a week to come in and put who-knows-what on it.  It was good to be able to help with his care, even from 2,000 miles away.

Sometimes unique things are put on burns. Deodorant and tooth paste for this little guy, which is better than some.

All of this extra time would have been ideal for sharing the work of Kelby’s Kids with so many churches, groups, and people.  But that isn’t able to happen with the current restrictions for gatherings. There was just so much that wasn’t able to be accomplished during this time.

I am looking forward to getting back to Haiti and being able to help people!  I am also looking forward to the “old normal” when I return to Michigan.  So, we all have a lot of work to do!!

Again, I am blessed by your partnership with Kelby’s Kids. And I look forward to being able to share with you the difference you make on a daily basis in Haiti when I return. 

Until then I hope that you and your families are safe and healthy and we all look for ways to show His love to everyone around us!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

#summergoals

Big Announcement!

There’ll be so much to do when Kelby gets back to Port-au-Prince, the last thing we want him to worry about is if he’s got enough medicine and formula and supplies for his patients! 

So, today, we're announcing a fundraising goal for this summer — to raise $5,000 to Stock the Clinic!

To kick things off, we have an anonymous matching donor who'll match up to $500 if we can raise $500 by the end of THIS WEEK (by midnight on July 4)! Give today to help us meet this important first goal in the campaign — and to DOUBLE your gift!

The Unknown Is....

I want to give you an update but the unknown is … so uncertain.

As of right now I don’t have any firm dates for returning to Haiti. 

There are rumors that the Haiti airport will reopen soon. But it’s mostly a rumor.  The lockdown date for Haiti is still July 20.  But the airport will probably be open before that.

Covid cases continues to increase in Haiti.  Although reliable numbers are hard to find, things are still not stable in regards to the virus.  Things also continue to be unsettled with protests, political issues, food insecurity, fuel shortages, and the economy.  Life for most Haitians continues to get more difficult.

I am closer to having a little place in Michigan, but as of yet, it hasn’t come together.  I am hoping to at least be able to get my stuff out of storage and into a place before late fall so that critters won’t be looking for a home in my stuff.

—-

I have two encouraging updates from Haiti, though! 

Several of my maternity patients have delivered — and I have been able to get a few pictures and a few details.

Fabienne was having some trouble with her pregnancy and was one of the reasons I was so torn about leaving Haiti.  Her baby was having episodes of an accelerated heart rate.  As time went on, her heart rate was more constant — and as fast as 266 beats per minute.  I didn’t think the baby would survive to term.  Before I left, I tried to prepare Fabienne for the worst-case scenario.  But, she had a safe delivery (although it was a little early)!

Little Alyha

Alyha was a little small. But she seemed to be doing well after she was born. 

For some reason, possibly because of her heart issues before she was born (or other cultural beliefs), they bound her chest and abdomen. This is very common in Haiti. In our education classes at the clinic, we teach young mothers how hard it is for the baby. The last report I received was that Alyha became sick and they took her to the hospital. 

Please pray with me for Alyha — that she was able to get the care that she needed and that I will find a healthy little girl when I get back to Haiti.

Ramonia was also born a few weeks ago, and is doing well. Her mom has severe asthma and we were concerned about the delivery. But mom and baby did well.  Please pray for Ramonia and her momma that they will be safe from the Covid-19.

Romania

Be watching for more information in the next week as we prepare to get ready to go back to Haiti!

—

These are for sure very difficult and uncertain times.  I want to thank each one of you for your continued prayer support as well as your sacrificial giving.  I have been humbled by your continued giving through this time.  A few monthly supporters have had to stop their giving during this time and I completely understand as so many have been affected economically.

This world is very broken and I don’t know if things will ever be the same but I am looking forward to getting back to Haiti and getting the clinic open and getting back to loving on the kids and people of Haiti!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

Notes on COVID-19, Kelby’s Kids, Me, and You

COVID-19 is a worldwide problem and Haiti is no exception.  

In case you missed my recent Facebook post, I made it out of Haiti and back to Michigan at the end of March (more on that in a moment). 

The reports I get from my network and community in Haiti, things are looking favorable for Haiti.

Currently there are 58 confirmed cases, two recoveries and four deaths in Haiti. I believe the report of these low, low numbers are mostly due to the extreme lack of testing. For example, the Dominican Republic (the other half of the island) has 5,300 confirmed cases, and 260 deaths. 

There is hope that the heat and sun are a major enemy of the virus. There is also hope that the severity will be reduced given the amount of Chloroquine used in Haiti for Malaria. We continue to pray it’s true. But, 58 cases is rather naive. I am thankful that I don’t know anyone that has been severely sick!  I have also seen projections that based on healthcare, living conditions, and lack of basic hygiene needs there could be 800,000 deaths in Haiti.

—-

The protests are greatly reduced and kidnappings are way down because of the virus.  But, food prices have doubled in the last several weeks.  This makes at least a 250% increase in the last 8 months.  People are desperate and not getting enough to eat and this increases crime as well as increasing health problems for patients.

—-

Haiti continues to have a broken medical system and was very overwhelmed even before the virus. Very few people are trying to obtain care — even if they are significantly sick. Only time will tell the outcome of things in Haiti with Covid-19.

A little cuteness to draw you in to read this update!!

KELBY’S KIDS is continuing to serve the people of Haiti! 

Haiti has many of the same requirements as the U.S.  For example, there are not to be gatherings and unessential meetings. We just had the first round of maternity patients come to get another month’s worth of vitamins and iron.  Anemia is one of the biggest risks that can be corrected before delivery.

Continuing to provide these simple medications will greatly improve the chances of Moms surviving their deliveries. I am thankful that my translator, Emmanuel, who was also trained as an EMT in Haiti, is able to continue to Help the moms while I’m not there.

—-

The medical clinic was closed at the first order of the government and will not reopen until the risk is greatly reduced.  This is to prevent the spread of the virus, but also because we can’t treat anyone with covid.

Gwyn has remained in Haiti and is continuing to provide formula and the medical peanut butter for the malnutrition kids. She’ll continue to do that until the children graduate out of the program.  She is also continuing care for three wound-care patients.  Gwyn and I remain in frequent contact.

—-

ME: I was planning to come back to Michigan and had purchased a ticket long before all the problems really got going. I was coming back to do taxes, and to sell my house in Reed City.  I already had a buyer who had approached me, and I knew it was time to move on this.  It has been a lot of work to try to maintain a house with a large yard while gone 300 days a year on average. 

—-

When all this ramped up Haiti, they closed the airport and the borders. About a week before I was to leave.

The State Department started some Repatriation flights.  It was an extremely difficult decision to leave Haiti.  There are a lot of people in Haiti that I care about!  But since the clinic services were already greatly reduced, I decided to get my house packed up

When will I go back? I have no idea. 

There’s no way to know when clinics might be able to return to normal again.  Some Haitians believe that the virus was brought to Haiti by foreigners — and, so, foreigners have been harassed. 

Just add that to all the other issues and security problems.

—-

Summer camps in Michigan? Also up in the air. 

I have been working at summer camps as the medical staff for nearly 25 years.  Some camps have already canceled for the summer. Some are tentatively delayed. Will I get back to Haiti before summer? Will camp happen? Will it be practical to come back if they have camp?

—-

I am looking for a new place, but that is difficult during this time. I need a little place that I can stay, when I am back in Michigan, for times like this or if I had to leave because of the ongoing instability in the country. Time away to refresh is important when you live and serve in Haiti. I am not really stressed about becoming homeless next month, but just the unknown is difficult.

I miss my babies so much!

YOU have been, are, and will continue to be an essential part of the work of Kelby’s Kids!  I continue to be blessed by your encouragements, and concerns! Thanks for checking in on me, and for your faithful and continued prayers! And for your overwhelming financial support  You are an essential part of Kelby’s Kids and Haiti is blessed because of it.

—-

There are SO MANY unknowns for me and for everybody reading this! But, whenever that time comes, I am ready to get back to Haiti and get back to work!! 

I was looking through pictures to use in this post and it made me miss Haiti very much.

—-

Please continue to pray for Haiti as yet another crisis is added to their plate. I pray that you and your families continue to be safe and healthy and that we all come though this as better people.

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby 

Hope Amid Heartache During Chaos

I want to give you an update on where things stand in Haiti right now, as well as with Kelby’s Kids and myself. 

I don’t think there is anywhere in the world that is not at least aware of CONVID-19 now.  Its effects continue to spread.  Haiti believed it had been spared up until recently. 

When Haiti had 2 cases test positive, there was almost an immediate closing of the borders, ports, and airports. The medical system is fragile and limited at best (as you will read later). 

I think part of the delay was the lack of testing available or being done, so most likely there are a significant number of cases already.  Although there is little social distancing going on, the people are afraid.  Because they don’t understand, and understanding all too well the medical system. 

Thus far, there have been threats of violence against anyone testing positive.  Food is disappearing from stores (where the wealthier shop) and will affect the streets very soon.  In a culture where food is purchased every day in street markets for only that day, it will become a crisis very soon, and it makes self-quarantine impossible.  This could lead to an unimaginable situation quickly. 

Now add to it the fact that virtually no one with the virus will receive medical care and the fact that there are 3 million people in this little city, it will spread like wild fire.  And while it’s diminished, alongside the fear of COVID, there is still plenty of crime and gang activity that continues. The future of Haiti is a big unknown.

At this present time, I am stuck on this island. . . . .

I purchased a ticket some time ago to go back to Michigan on March 26th, to do taxes. 

There are reports that there will be some repatriating flights (the U.S. assisting with flights for citizens to return home) this coming week.  But, as of yet, any details are very unclear. 

Please be in prayer for Haiti in general, and, in particular, for patients that are in the various clinics, Pray for the continued work of Kelby’s Kids and me., Pray for the chance to get back to the U.S.

In the interim, our medical clinic has been canceled — since as we can’t treat anyone with the virus, and don’t want to try to screen people for their illness. We run the risk of exposing others in the malnutrition, maternity, and wound care clinics — as we’re continuing those clinics for current patients (albiet, with limited services). We’re quickly trying to phase out their need for care. 

It did not seem appropriate to just walk away and leave them hanging. Because they are experiencing an even greater crisis.

We will have to be very diligent to ensure the safety of the patients so it remains helpful, and not hurtful.

Please pray that the clinic will be a place of help and hope and for protection of the patients and the staff as we try to continue to show love and be the hands and feet of Jesus to them.

—

About 2 weeks ago I was asked by Karen to stop by and check on a mom that was living at the clinic compound. 

Merline was staying there to try to get her daughter into the Hydrocephalus program in Port-Au-Prince.  She lives in the country, several hours outside of PAP.  She had not been drinking very much water and was exhausted from caring for her daughter.

Merline’s Daughter at 1 month and 6 pounds.

Her daughter was 1 month old and only weighed 6 pounds, even despite her large head.  The Hydrocephalus program told her she was malnourished and would have to gain some weight before they could help her.  Fortunately, Merline had an ultrasound and, upon seeing the baby had a large head, scheduled a C-section.  This probably saved both of their lives. Merline is only 15 years old.

I started to asses her by checking her vitals laying down and then standing up to see how much of a change occurs to determine how dehydrated she was. 

About half way through the blood pressure while standing up she went unresponsive. 

She was carried into the clinic and an IV was started to re-hydrate her.  She was having a lot of abdominal pain, she had a fever. And her blood pressure was low. 

Upon getting more of the story and a full assessment, I believe that she had an infection from a complication of her C-section. 

Karen asked if I could try to care for her and arrangements could be made to get her back to the hospital that did the C-section the next day.  I was initially reluctant as this requires hospitalization. But then, thinking of the current medical system and how difficult it is to get any care, I decided we may be able to do more than a lot of hospitals would do. 

Despite IV fluids, medication for fever, she was quickly getting worse and her fever shot up to 105.5.  The antibiotics would take time to begin working and at the current rate she might not survive the night.  HERO ambulance was called to transport her, and to facilitate getting her into a “decent” hospital. 

The Dispatch calls hospitals looking for acceptance for the patient so the ambulance knows where to go. 

Initially they were getting “NO’s”.  They made contact with an ER doctor.  They accepted the patient.  Ten minutes later when the ambulance arrived, they found that the hospital was on strike and had been closed for 2 days.  After 5 hospitals they finally got acceptance at another ER (remember when I said medical care was already woefully inadequate in Haiti). 

HERO graciously said they would provide a charity transport if I would help with the patient’s hospital bills as this is a more expensive hospital.  I agreed, as was initially my intention. 

As the ambulance pulled out of the yard that night, Merline’s mom started to cry.  Her little girl was going to a hospital without her, she was left with her sick grandbaby, and was a long way from home without friends or family. 

We made arrangement for the baby to go up to God’s Littlest Angels to be cared for until she could become healthy.

Merline was found to have postpartum sepsis.  She was treated by the hospital and after several days was released with further care at home.

L to R: Merline’s Mom, Merline, and myself after she was released from the hospital Monday.

She got back to the compound about 4 pm on Monday. 

On Tuesday morning she came over crying with severe pain in her arm.  While she was in the hospital, her IV went bad. And now she had a bad infection in her arm! 

Soooo … back to the hospital she went.  After a few more days, the infection was under control, and she came back again. 

It was so good to see her feeling well and doing better. She was SO much better than when we saw her that first day!  While I was talking to her, she sheepishly asked if I could give her some money. 

She said she needed to get a few things.  I asked how much, and she said $250 HTG ($2.63 USD). Certainly, a small amount to us but almost a day’s wages for some Haitians.  I said I think I might be able to do that, as I pulled a crisp new $250-gourde bill out of my wallet and handed it to her.  The look on her face and the look she gave her mom almost brought me to tears.  You would have through I had Just given her $100,000!  What made that so sweet was the fact that I DID give her $100,000 (actually YOU did)! 

Her hospital bill was just over $100,000 HTG (about $1,060 USD). 

This is about 84 weeks wages for the average Haitian.  I don’t think she has any idea what it cost to save her life, and I hope she never does.  My only hope is that she felt loved, that she has worth, that she knows that people care about her, and that there is a God who loves her very much!

Please continue to pray for Merline as she continues to heal.  She left yesterday to go back home.  I wanted to give her a big hug but this is not something that is done much in his culture — plus the risk of the virus and her just coming from the hospital.  Please pray for her daughter. As on last report, the baby was not doing well, and probably wont live to many more days.

I am thankful for the hope found in Merline’s healing, praying for the heartache she is about to endure, and for protection from the chaos that is coming.

Thank-You for your continued prayers and I will try to keep you updated on the situation in Haiti and if I am able to get out. It’s all in God’s hands!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

Always Sweet Babies

One of the best parts of what I do is getting to hold babies! 

It is such a blessing!! 

That’s what brought me on my first trip to Haiti in 2003!  It can also bring frustration when the things that are covered in the education part of the clinics each week are still not being done, and babies are sick.  Sometimes everything has been done, and they’re healthy, and sometimes the problems are out of our control.

This week I had a mom come back after her delivery.  She came in with little Melissa.  She is as cute as a button and was very awake and responding well.

Melissa at 4.4 lbs

Mom was 39 weeks when she delivered and did everything right!  But mom is probably about 4’7” (I should have measured her but wasn’t sure if she would like that).  So, because mom is so little, I think that added to Melissa being little.  Melissa only weight 2.0 kg or 4.4 lbs.  She is a little peanut for sure.  But seems to be doing well.  With a little more education on how to breast-feed a small baby, I think all is going to be fine! 

She will be coming back for follow ups until I am sure she is destined for greatness. I am confident this mom is going to do a great job!

The statistics in Haiti are against pregnant moms and their babies (in their first couple of months). It’s a blessing to see those statistics being changes with those Kelby’s Kids serves!

—

So February 15 was the birthday of a sweet girl named Faeka.  If you remember she was the first baby I delivered in Haiti (out of 3).  She still lives just down the road.  It’s an encouragement to watch her grow and know that she is beating the odds!

Happy 3 Birthday, Faeka!!

A little while back Marcus came to the clinic.  It was reported that he had fallen off a roof several days before and now was having a lot of problems.  He said that he landed on the right side of his face and neck.  He was having a lot of pain in his face, jaw, and neck and was hardly able to speak. 

He was referred to a hospital for further evaluation and care.  My concern was that he had fractured his jaw and it was getting infected.  The family returned several times for medications and supplies (it’s the family’s responsibility to get all of those things for the patient’s care — as the hospital does not have them on hand).  On last report, they were going to do a surgery to clean out Marcus’s infection. I asked about him having an X-Ray (as I had not paid for one yet). They said the doctor wants to do the surgery first then they will do an X-Ray to see if there is a fracture.  Some times the system in Haiti is a challenge. 

I have not heard an update since the surgery.  Praying that Marcus is doing well.

—

It’s difficult when patients that I’m working with simply disappear.  

This happens frequently — especially in the maternity program.  I want to be sure everyone is doing well before they are discharged. 

One of the newest babies is doing well!  Mom is feeding her well. She has been bathed, so, her skin is healthy. And her umbilical cord was not pulled off.  It was exciting to see everything as it should be.

The icing on the cake is that Valerie was born on Valentine’s Day and so she was also sporting a cute little pink dress with hearts on it when she came to see me.  I’m praying that, someday, Valerie will put God first in her life, and she will help change the world!

—

A little while ago a little old man came in for wound care.  He had fallen down and gotten hurt.  He had been to a hospital and they stitched up multiple wounds on his face.  He came to the wound care program to get bandage changes. 

The initial story was that he had been drunk and fell down, injuring his face.  On later visits it was discovered that he had been drinking because he was grieving the death of his wife. He stated that he didn’t want to drink but he missed her so much. 

He said that she was a Christian.  We assured him that he could see her again someday, but he didn’t seem to agree. After some talking, he said that it was not possible for him to become a Christian because he was a butcher and he kills animals.  We got him a Creole New Testament and showed him many verses to let him know that was not true. 

Over the course of the several days that followed, and more conversations, he began to understand and believe.  He prayed to receive Christ into his life and be born again!

Our maternity clinic doesn’t want to deliver babies on the premises — because of issues that can arise from deeply-held Haitian customs. But, some new life doesn’t come with Haitian customs.  When someone is born again, the customs don’t apply! 

At our clinic, we thank God for new life in the form of babies — and eternal new life for grown-ups!

This was at his last visit to the wound care program.  Please pray that he remains involved in a church and will continue to follow Christ as he grows in his faith!

—

A couple weeks ago I got the chance to visit a friend. I work with him occasionally through Agape Flights (my mail service to Haiti).  He lives in Cazel — a little village about 1.5 hours from where I live.  The last 30 minutes of driving is off-road. 

You drive over mountains and through rivers to get there.  It’s very different from Port-au-Prince.  It seems a world away from the big city.  It’s beautiful. It’s quiet at night, and the people are much more friendly.

It was a nice break from things here in PAP for a couple days.  It was also fun to see his ministry and how things work where he is at.  It was also a lot of fun to hang out with the kids that live at the compound — especially the babies!

—

Please continue to pray for Haiti and the work of Kelby’s Kids. Things continue to be unstable in Haiti and you have to always be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Protests have increased and crime remains high. The economic conditions continue to get worse. It’s all making people more desperate. This makes things busier in the clinics. And increase the overall risks.

Thank you for your continued faithful prayer and financial support that makes this work possible. Together we are bringing hope on a daily basis.

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

A New Year and New Life

My time back in Michigan for Christmas and New Year went fast, but was a much-needed and refreshing break!  I have been back in Haiti for over 2 weeks now and things have been busy.

One of the most exciting things has been all the babies that were been born through the maternal health clinic while I was gone!

One of the moms who delivered while I was gone was Fabienne. 

She has been coming to the clinic since May.  When she came in for her first appointment, she brought a friend with her.  It isn’t completely uncommon, but doesn’t happen often.  Her friend served a specific and valuable purpose — Fabienne is both deaf and mute. 

This presented some difficulties in communication during her care.  Not only did I have to use a translator to translate English to Creole but then a second to translate Creole to sign language and then back (which I am still unsure was official sign language or just what had to be created to get by).  So, it’s hard to know how much was lost or understood.

But I am happy to report that little Angie Sophonie was born healthy and without complications and was 3.08 Kg (6.78 lbs)! She and her mom were doing well when they came back for their follow up appointment!

——

At the first two maternal health clinics after the new year, I had 11 new babies come in — and there are still more that need to have their follow up appointment. Some of them were having trouble with nursing their babies, and others have issues with basic care. 

We work with then to improve those issues as well.  Through the photo below, I wanted to share with you some of them so you could be blessed by the results of your partnership with the ministry of Kelby’s kids!

There is no way to know how many moms or babies may or may not have survived their deliveries without the maternal health clinic, but we know we’re making a difference.  Thank-You for being a blessing to these mom’s and babies!

——

The day I returned to Haiti, a medical team came in, too. 

It was a blessing to have a team come in and see a large number of patients to get things caught back up after the clinic had been closed for several weeks. They did four clinics in our area at two different locations, and saw nearly 450 patients. They were a blessing to me and to the community.

There are always people who are curious about what the American’s are doing when a mobile clinic is going on. These two little cuties were no exception; watching in the back doors of the church through the fence.

One of the patients at a mobile clinic needed a breathing treatment and the church didn’t have power at the time. Their nebulizer machine happened to have a 12-volt option, so I was able to use the my vehicle to power the machine.

This was in addition to being able to transport hundreds of pounds of their equipment. And supplies to-and-from the clinics for them, so they did not have to hire a vehicle to do that, or carry it down the street by hand.

——

It had been too long since I had checked up on Doodley — especially with being home over Christmas.  When we arrived, we found out that they had moved.  The neighbors knew who I was, and were quick to help. They made phone calls and even rode with us to the new neighborhood they lived in.  Doodley’s family was very happy to see me, and I was happy to see them. If you remember my post from August 26, 2019, Doodley was the baby that I delivered at home who was not breathing.  After several minutes of CPR, he was alive, and he hasn’t looked back!

Doodley is going great!  At 5 months old now he has tripled his birth weight and is a healthy and happy baby.  He fell asleep right after I got there. His mom said, “how did you do that?!?  He always fights me before he falls asleep!”

I hope that we will have a special bond that will continue for many years to come.

——

I read this morning that “the strongest evidence of love is sacrifice,” as we see in John 3:16.  I am thankful for God’s sacrifice and love for me!  I am also thankful for your sacrifice (love) which allows me to love on the children and people of Haiti through medical care, as well as to share about God’s love (and sacrifice) for them!

I look forward to what 2020 will bring for Kelby’s Kids as together we bring hope through healing!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

Merry Christmas From Kelby's Kids

I hope that you are enjoying this season of Christmas and time with family and friends!

A little cuteness for Christmas!

I am back in Michigan and doing just that — enjoying the season.  In the past, Christmas break has been short (because the clinics are closed while I am gone). 

This year I felt I needed to extend the time away. Especially as things in Haiti have been filled with trials, unrest, security issues, and even difficulty getting out to do everyday tasks. 

Thankfully, the clinic only had to be closed one day due to the unrest in the streets. But the stress of it all does take a toll.

I am looking forward to a time of renewal while I am away for this Christmas season.  I spent 295 days in Haiti in 2019. I am thankful for your prayers and safety over the last several months when things were at their worst.

———

You may remember Roseberlin from my post on June 10th.  She was about 2 months old when she came in and only weight 1.58 kg (3.4 lbs).  She was sent to inpatient care for her extreme malnutrition.  Mom didn’t stay at the malnutrition center as long as they would have liked. But, Mom was, at least, attending a few appointments for weight checks — but then they disappeared. 

After some time, Mom finally returned to the clinic! And 8-month-old Roseberlin now weights 6.5 kg (14.3 lbs).

Roseberlin has had a challenging life in her 8 months.

She is very underweight for her age and height. So in an attempt to keep Roseberlin healthy and her brain developing properly, she has been admitted back into the malnutrition clinic.  Please pray that her mom will follow the program. Roseberlin needs to be able to avoid the devastating effects of malnutrition.

———

Maternity clinic continues to be a busy program.  Probably about 60% of my moms will deliver before I get back to Haiti just after the new year. Please pray with me that they have safe deliveries without complications — and that their babies are healthy as well.

A healthy baby is a great blessing!

The last 2 clinic days for maternity patients before I left, I gave out just over 5,000 pills to get them through until I come back. 

Anemia continues to be a big problem for expectant mothers, and it’s a challenge to keep up with the need for Prenatal vitamins, Iron supplements, and the stool softeners. Many Moms are on for the high doses of iron.

———

“I love babies and could spend all day holding them!”  This is what I told them at clinic the other day during the opening education. But the problem is, when most babies show up at clinic, it generally means they’re sick, suffering, or have problems.

. . . They are precious in His sight, Jesus loves the little children of the world!

But despite this, I still love to hold them and to do everything possible to make them happy and healthy and give their parents the ability to care for their children. Life is difficult in Haiti these days. And being able to provide free medical care so the parents don’t have to choose between food and medicine is extremely important. And it’s saving lives!

Sometimes it’s still hard to provide for the needs of your children. 

An increasing number of people in Haiti have food insecurity.  That means they don’t know when or where their next meal is coming from.  This continues to increase the number of kids with malnutrition. Such is the case with Jenny.

So sick from malnutrition her body is breaking down.

Jenny is almost 6 months old and only weights 2.99 kg (6.5 lbs). 

Some of this weight is due to the amount of extra fluid she has in her body.  She has Kwashiorkor, which is from an extreme protein deficiency. In the picture above, you can see evidence of it by the swelling she has in her hands and legs. 

The edema in her legs is pitting, which means when you press on it the depression stays there when you remove your finger.  Jenny was very sick and was taken by HERO ambulance to an inpatient malnutrition center where they’ll try to save her.  All of the inpatient centers have been over capacity recently due to the increased food insecurity in Haiti.

———

As difficult as things have been this last year, it has been a blessing to be able to care for people, and especially the children, in Haiti. Lives are being changed, people are given hope, and kids are being saved because of your faithfulness to the ministry of Kelby’s Kids.  I am only the distributor of your love and kindness that you show through your support of this ministry which makes all this possible.

If you do not currently support Kelby’s Kids or are looking to make a year-end contribution, please consider being apart of this work in Haiti.

Making a difference 1 child at a time.

This little cutie says if you only remember one thing, it’s that Kelby’s Kids is making a difference in the lives of kids in Haiti and you can be a part of it!

———

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

(p.s. Earlier this month there was a snafu with our post office box. The problem has been remedied, and we’re able to accept mail at the box again. Please, if you attempted to mail us something — at P.O. Box 57, Reed City, Mich. 49677-0057 — please try again. The box works again.)

Giving Tuesday 2019

Please consider a special gift on Giving Tuesday in honor of Kelby’s three years of ministry to Haiti’s children!

Especially during the last several weeks of violence, Kelby has not wavered in providing care women and children in need (their need has been even greater since food and essential services have been totally disrupted in Haiti).

This holiday season, Kelby will be spending some much-needed rest and refresh time in the States before heading back to Port-au-Prince to continue his lifesaving work.

He is an excellent steward of all donated funds and receives only a small monthly stipend for the work that he does day after day in Haiti.

Let's shower some blessings on Kelby this Thanksgiving season!

I Don't Even Know

This week in Port-au-Prince, Haiti

I don’t know who he is.

I don’t know what he stands for..

I don’t know how much he is suffering…

I don’t know if he is paid or stands for what he truly believes….

I don’t know if he has kids or what they may be going through or if they have died…..

I do know I am a guest in this country and it’s not my place to question or be a part of the political climate here in Haiti.  But I know, without a doubt, that it has an effect on me, my patients and my work load. 

After 7 weeks of continued protest Kelby’s Kids is still trying to meet the needs of the Kids and people of Haiti.  But that is getting harder and harder to do.

(If you’re unsure of the current situation in Haiti, google “Haiti today” and click on images.  Any one of those images could be and many are taken a mile or two from my house and clinic.) 

A recent question on one of the missionary Facebook pages asked the question “Who is left”?  It is very hard to know for sure but the opinions for the most part ran from 50-80% of missionaries have left Haiti.

Just when you think it can’t continue to get worse it does.  Please pray for safety, wisdom, and the ability to stay and continue working in Haiti.

Wisselene is very sad.

This little girl was at the clinic the other day.  I gave her a pair of sunglasses so she could feel cute!  Wisselene is in the malnutrition program and her momma is in the maternity program.  It made me sad when I realized that they didn’t help her feel cute but instead helped to cover her sadness.  Her mom told me that her husband went out to a protest and it’s now been over a week since she has seen him.  Please pray for Wisselene and her family as she has probably lost her daddy.

Hundreds of thousands are protesting Haiti’s government and economic condition all over the country.

This picture is just over a mile from my house.  People can’t find food, water, fuel, and basic supplies.  And when they do then can no longer afford them as prices sore due to the economy and simple supply and demand.  There is no transportation, schools and business are closed, and things get worse each day. Nobody is working and so they have no money. Needless to say from this photo, there are a lot of unhappy and desperate people in Haiti and the numbers continue to grow.

The other day at medical clinic a mom brought in her baby because he had a cold.  She wasn’t particularly worried about his weight.  She said he was little because he was premature.  She said she feeds him some milk and baby food once a day.  Woodley was about 45 days old and was only 3 pounds because he had his diaper on.

Woodley, 45 days old, 1.3 Kg.

I knew that his chances of survival were pretty slim if he didn’t get some help.  Despite the fact that every remaining functioning hospital, inpatient malnutrition center, and baby center is over capacity I was able to get him placement.  Now to get him there…  Despite the conditions Amos (Karen’s driver) said he would take them but would take a moto (motorcycle taxi). 

Motos often are allowed through road blocks when your vehicle would be damaged or burned.  When he got back he said that it was very scary on the roads going through the protests and road blocks. But he got them there because he knew how important it was to little Woodley.

“Thank you to Amos and the Kelby’s Kids supporters for giving me a chance at life today!!”

The sad thing is that this story is played out every day in Haiti and most of these kids are just dying because what’s left of the medical system doesn’t have the ability to help them. Or they can’t even get to help with all the road blocks.  I am thankful that through your partnership we were able to be a small part of Woodley’s life!!

Sometimes we don’t thing about all the things that not being able to go to the market can do.  Hygiene is part of that.  Not being able to be clean, not having money to buy clean water for a bath or soap to bathe with.  The number of infections and skin issues we see is going up at clinic because of the current conditions.

Having a bad day but still catching a nap!!

One of the issues that has become almost standard is that fact that most of the people who are having skin issues have had to resort to using powdered laundry detergent for bathing.  If you read the hazard statements and warnings on these products you know that this is going to cause some problems for sure.

At malnutrition clinic the other day a lady came in that needed two people to help her to the bench.  We often get people who come to the wrong clinics for care.  As I was trying to get the story, the 2 ladies that helped her in returned with a cute little baby.  She said that the baby was about 2 months old and she just could not feed the baby any more.  She didn’t appear to be able to even care for herself she was so sick, much less this child.  I admitted Esterline to the formula program. 

Esterline’s admission photo to the malnutrition clinic.

The ladies with her said they would care for Esterline.  I told mom that she needed to get to the hospital.  She said that she could do that now that her baby was being cared for.  I told her that I was concerned that she has Tuberculosis and that the baby may have caught it.  The next week the ladies showed up with Esterline and told me that her mom had died of TB.  Please pray for Esterline that despite looking like a healthy little girl, right now, that TB is not taking over her body.  They are supposed to be trying to get a TB test for her this week.

Thank-You as always for your support of Kelby’s Kids!  I ask specifically for your prayers during this time.  The continue desperation in the clinic, the uneasiness in the streets, the gun shots just down the road, the days of being stuck at home, and the road blocks even in our neighborhood. It takes a toll over time. I am not sure I can do 6 more weeks of this before I come back for Christmas break.

Until No Child Dies

Kelby

What's going on?!

I want to give you an update on Getchland and baby Woodkensley.

Getchland was the mom that was sent for a C-Section on August 16th for very severe preeclampsia. I am happy to report that mom and baby are doing much better — but are still under the care of the maternity clinic for follow up. 

10 days after delivery she had lost 53 pounds and the baby was only 3 pounds of that.  She still has some swelling in her legs, her blood pressure is still up but is on medications, and Woodkensley is gaining weight slowly.

He is still only at 4.1 pounds at his last appointment but is continuing to slowly gain weight and make progress!  Thank-You for your prayers and financial support that have made a huge impact on these two lives.  Please continue to pray for both of them as they still have some progress to make.

She is such a happy mamma!!

It is with sadness but also excitement that we had to say “until later” to a big part of the community here in the neighborhood this month. 

Jim and Debbie Hambrick, who dedicated the last 23-year of their lives to be missionaries, have transitioned from their work here in Haiti with Our House Of Hope (the guest house next door), to a much-needed and deserved “semi”retirement. 

They started out and spent many of their years in Venezuela in the Amazon jungle with the Yanomami Indians. They have so many amazing stories of the work they did there. 

They moved to Haiti in 2012 to open Our House Of Hope, as a ministry center for teams coming to serve Haiti.  After 23 years on the mission field they, for sure, deserve a retirement of endless relaxation. 

But, if I know them like I think I do, after a short period of rest they will again be involved in ministry and in serving others. 

It was a blessing to know you and serve alongside you here in Haiti. Thank-you for your care, love, and encouragement you always showed. Blessings on this next phase in your lives!

After dinner on their last night in Haiti

An update on Doodley, the little guy who had a rough delivery and start at life.  Doodley is having a little trouble with his tummy.  It looks like he is probably going to be a colicky baby.  But despite this he is gaining weight!  He was born at 5.7 pounds and just hit 8.0 pounds. 

Please pray for Doodley and his mom as they deal with his stomach issues (and that it is only colic) but also continue to thank God for sparing this life!  Everytime I see him, I just hold him and look at him with amazement!!  God is good!!!!

Doodley and his mom Elina. I could hold him and watch him breath for hours!!!

For those of you that did not catch it on Facebook, Donald got very sick and ended up in the hospital. 

They called me one night and said he was really sick.  When I got to him, he was obviously sick.  We took him to the emergency room. 

At one point he looked at me and told me he was going to die, and I believed him!  He ended up with a perforated stomach. 

He had to have surgery and spent a week in the hospital.  And, he is doing much better now and is up and around and getting his strength back!  Thank-you to those that prayed.  Thank-you also to those that gave specifically for his medical bills.  He had a significant bill by the time it was all done (cash up front, pay as you go).  While in American standards it was pretty cheap, all things considered.  It was not even an option to be considered for him.  Without your assistance he would have just stayed home and died.   Donald says: Merci Anpil, Merci Jezi ~ Thank-You Very Much, Thank-you Jesus!!

He still isn’t at 100% yet but it beats the alternative!

The other day I had a giggly patient out in the waiting area at maternity clinic.  When she came in for her turn, she just put her hands over her face and started laughing.  After 18 months and a lot of patients I got my first repeat customer!!  Daphnie is 26 and is came back to see us for her third pregnancy!  She was patient # 2 and now # 230 in the program.  I guess were doing something right when they come back!!

Daphnie and I. Left June 2018 and right September 2019

Please be in prayer for Haiti, Kelby’s Kids, and myself.  Things have been fairly difficult the last several weeks.  Today we got a can of gas for the first time in 26 days.  I’ve seen “black market” or “Street” gas for as high as $28.50 USD a gallon with the chance it’s been cut with water. 

The power has been off for the last 4.5 days (the neighborhood erupted in cheers when the power came on this afternoon like they were all watching a big soccer game).

Protests are increasing. They are blocking the streets. We had to walk to clinic all this week because we couldn’t even drive in our neighborhood. The kids haven’t been in school in a week.  It’s just getting more desperate and more on edge. Elections are supposed to be coming up as well so that will make it worse until they’re over. 

Haiti needs a break from all this! 

Please pray for peace in the streets and that people can provide for their basic needs. Pray that Kelby’s Kids can continue to provide for their medical, malnutrition, and maternity needs so they can concentrate on food, water, and the basic needs of their families.

This little man is still showing his Haiti pride with his Haiti flag doo rag as he is leaving malnutrition clinic.

Only time will tell what the future holds. But now you know what’s been going on and only God knows what will be going on!

Thank-you for the part you play in in the ministry of Kelby’s Kids.  I could never do it without you!!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

It's All in the Delivery!

I arrived back in Haiti on July 28th and it has been eventful ever since!

It always seems to go this way. And I have just begun to just expect it!

At my first Maternity clinic after returning, I had a full waiting area with 30 moms. 30! 

About half-way through the patients, Karen came in with a sick baby that had come to the gate. 

Loveson was 41 days old and not doing very well.  His family had brought him because he was sick and his 18 year old mom was at home dying from an unknown condition.  He was not responding very well, was very dehydrated, had a fever of 103.3, a heart rate of 226 bpm, and he only weighted 5.2 pounds. 

He took some formula but he was going to need a lot more care.  I contacted HERO Ambulance who arraigned transport to God’s Littlest Angels (GLA) so he could be cared for around the clock, and would have the best chance at survival.

Loveson doing better with some IV fluids

While waiting for the ambulance I decided I needed to try to get an IV started on him. 

Sometimes I wonder if I am losing some of my EMS skills as time goes by.  I was very thankful to get an IV the first try on little Loveson.  After some fluid his heart rate and his temperature came down some and he was more alert. 

The ambulance arrived and care was turned over to them for transport up to GLA.  I later got word that he continued to stabilize and was doing better as they worked to find the cause of his condition as well as that of his mom, to see if it was related.

After getting everything squared away, I grabbed a coke and it was time to get back to the maternity patients. 

Openers are hard to find and so I hooked the edge of the cap on a bench and hit my hand holding the bottle to pop the top off.  I have done this more times than I remember. And the top normally flops off.  On this day it did not go well.  The cap shot off and hit me directly in my left eye. 

Instantly there was an explosion of white.  I held my hand over my eye for a while until it was almost tolerable.  I tried to get back to work but was unable to see out of it.  As much as I didn’t want to, I had to leave the clinic and go to an eye doctor. 

He said I had not only cut my eye but the impact was enough that it probably almost detached the retina because there were little flecks of the iris (blue part) floating around in my eye. 

So, after several medications, 6 days of having my eye dilated to prevent scaring, dark glasses and a real problem with depth perception I am happy to report, and thank God, that there is no permanent damage!

On Monday, 5 days later, I was at medical clinic and a guy from a motor cycle accident came in.  He said that he has been to 3 different hospitals and nobody would sew him up.  I told him that I would have to do it with one eye (as the other was still dilated and causes problems focusing on things up close with both).  He said that would be fine because nobody else was going to help him.  I was thankful it only needed 3 stitches.

 —- 

One of the moms in the “maternal health clinic” was having trouble with some preeclampsia.  I had been working with her a lot and she was the Aunt of a friend of mine. 

Although it’s not what I do, (I don’t deliver the babies for several cultural/safety reasons) she talked me into helping her because she lived close. 

She called and said that she had been in labor for a couple hours and was ready to deliver and I need to come.  I said that was awful fast to go from no signs of labor to ready in 3 hours.  She assured, me she was. 

They came and picked me up since it was after dark.  I arrived and, sure enough, she was in labor. But I thought it was probably still going to be a little bit yet. 

With the second contraction after I arrived, she delivered the head.  Her niece was tearing things open for me as I hadn’t even had time to open my stuff yet.  A couple seconds later the baby was delivered.  As I was working on the baby it was quickly obvious that the baby wasn’t doing well. 

When the placenta delivered less that 20 seconds after the baby, I knew we were in real trouble.  This means that the placenta had detached at some point during labor, before the baby was born, and the baby was not getting oxygen from mom any more. 

It couldn’t have been too long or the baby would have already been dead. 

The baby was alive, yet would not breath and his heart rate was about 20. And slowing down even further. 

I had discussed with mom earlier the fact that I can make no guarantees as I couldn’t possibly bring all the equipment I would like to have with me to their house in the middle of the night.  She told me it was alright, that it was in God’s hands, and she would accept His will. 

I said a quick prayer of “God Help” knowing He knew the thousand things going through my mind as I started CPR on this baby. 

As I knelt on the bare concrete floor with the baby laying on a big piece of cardboard they had gotten for the delivery, it got very quiet as I started compressions.  All of a sudden, I felt very alone.

I was wishing for a partner, rescue personal — someone to help with this cardiac arrest.  As I continued, focused as if the baby and I were the only ones in the room, I started to hear the people in the house praying. 

After about 2 to 3 minutes (which seemed like much longer), baby breathed, and coughed. After a few more breaths his heart was beating again at a decent rate. And he stated to breath on his own.  After a minute or so he was breathing well, had a good heart rate, and pinked up!!  It was unbelievable!!

This baby makes my heart happy

After many times of doing CPR on babies back at work, with help and a lot of equipment, this was the first time that it had been successful. 

Babies often times don’t do well after they get to that point. 

I advised the family that he needed to go to the hospital now.  They asked, “what would the hospital do?”  It’s late and the doctors are probably not even there. 

They said they would take him the next day if baby took a turn for the worse.  That went against everything within me. 

But, as I thought about it, it really was true.  The hospital couldn’t really do too much, they would charge a lot, and may do something that would make him die.  And that’s even if Mom could get into a hospital.

By the time I left, baby was nursing and sucking his thumb. And really seemed to be a doing well.  I checked on him every day for several days and he is gaining weight and doing very well. 

Please join me in praise God for Doodley’s life and that he would have no long-term issues from the oxygen deprivation he had (people who are “different” are treated very poorly in Haiti).

5 day old Doodley enjoying life with a little nap!

Maternity clinic has been an adventure since I returned. 

On Wednesday a new mom came into the program.  She was about 36 weeks and very obviously suffering from Preeclampsia.  She needed immediate help. 

I paid for her to go to the hospital to have a C-Section.  The hospital said they didn’t have what they needed to do the C-Section, so they gave her some medicine and they sent her home.  I had her come back to the clinic the next morning to try again. 

I hadn’t realized it was a Holiday (probably why the first hospital didn’t want to do it). 

It was determined that there wasn’t a hospital within 3+ hours that had doctors in and would do the C-Section today.  I had to send her back home again to wait until Friday.  By then, her blood pressure was 226/152 and her swelling went from her feet up to her arm pits. 

When she got to the hospital on Friday they gave her so much medicine that they bottomed out her blood pressure and had to wait for it to come back to normal before they could do the surgery!

On last report mom and baby are doing well and I look forward to seeing them when they can return to the clinic.

 —-

As you can see life is often a struggle here for sometimes any kind of medical care.  THANK-YOU for partnering with Kelby’s Kids to not only provide hope thought that medical care but also a hope for eternity.  It is only because of your prayer support and your financial support that this ministry can do this. 

The approximately $18,000.00 HTG for the C-Section to save this mom and baby were totally out of her reach, even though it’s just under $200.00 USD, that could be almost a year’s wages for her. 

This single post represents four lives saved because of your faithfulness to the ministry of Kelby’s Kids!!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

Troubled Streets ... Peaceful Hearts

A couple weeks ago we were just starting clinic when we heard shots fired in the distance. It was nearby … but it’s not much of a concern. Shots fired is common here.

After a short time, more shooting. Much closer, more shooting.

We later learned a police officer shot a motorcycle taxi driver. That was the first shooting we heard. 

When the officer left the scene, he made the mistake of going home. Moto drivers “stick together” and since the cop shot a driver, other moto drivers followed the cop home and start a shootout at his house, trying to kill him. That was the second round of shooting we heard. And unfortunately, he lived around the corner from the clinic. 

As all the shooting was happening at the house, the police showed up. And they retaliated using their automatic weapons. So, there was much more shooting.

We locked down the clinic so that no one tried to leave. But more importantly, so that no one came in.

We had a team from the U.S. with us. And we were concerned if we left the gate open, the wounded would come in. And it’s not that we didn’t want to help the wounded, it’s just we didn’t want the people doing the wounding to come in — and finish the job.

We did’t to put the people inside the compound in jeopardy.

On the corner about 30 yards from the compound where we have clinic.

After a short time, the shooting subsided. But then they started burning tires on the corner. The wind was blowing the smoke right into the clinic. 

The police responded with tear gas (which also came into the clinic). We were passing out masks, but it takes very little tear gas to really be irritating. I was holding a little baby and tears from her eyes and drainage from her nose were dripping on the floor. She was crying and did not understanding what was going on.

After some time, we were able to get back to work and all of the patients were seen and we got everyone out the gate and on their way home.

I debated on whether or not to even share this story. While this is life in Haiti (and happens somewhere very frequently), it doesn’t occur in our neighborhood very often. 

I feel like Haiti is too often known for the bad things, and rarely for the good things.  But I didn’t feel like I could share Donald’s entire story without first sharing this story...

Many of you know Donald. He has been coming to the clinic for wound care since January of 2017.  He had been injured in hurricane Matthew in 2016.  He had an amputation of part of his foot on Christmas Eve 2016 and came to us for help post op in the first days of January 2017.

Donald and I before his last surgery

He has had several more surgeries and, understandably, has become very frustrated. 

The other day he told us he needed to go to a doctor in Haiti that understands him. 

We think it was going to be a witch doctor, using voodoo. 

He said it wasn’t going to be a witch doctor. We traveled with him to his new doctor.

Sure enough … a witch doctor.

We told Donald we couldn’t be a part of it in any way. Donald told us that we “just didn’t understand Haiti.” 

He continued by telling us — many times — that he believes in God (although, to us, this action did not make that very evident). We asked a local pastor to talk to Donald, so it couldn’t be blamed on a lack of understanding of the culture. 

Pastor Savine came to clinic to talk to Donald on Monday morning.  It just so happened that it was the same Monday as the shooting incident. Pastor Savine and Donald sat on this bench for about 2 hours. They talked, they prayed, and they sang worship songs.

Praying during the shooting

During all of the shooting, smoke, and tear gas they never looked up or got up to go to the back of the building with the other patients. There were more important things going on than the bullets in the street. 

It was rather emotional to find out that during all this, Donald gave his life to Jesus Christ. And he no longer simply believes in God, but has a personal relationship!

Donald then confessed that he wasn’t actually injured in the hurricane but someone had put Voodoo powder in his boot which had caused the injury and that is why he felt a witch doctor was the only way to get it fixed. 

He no longer wants to do that!  He has been attending church every Sunday and reads his Bible while he sits in clinic getting his wound vac done. It’s been very exciting to see this change in his life!

Please pray for complete healing for Donald so that he can use his life as a witness to others in his neighborhood. 

We are praying that God has used this to draw Donald closer to him but now we are praying for healing so that we can get him a prosthetic and he can return to work to support his family.

———

Many of you know Jackenson.  He is my buddy and does a lot to help me.  I also help him when he gets sick from his Sickle Cell Anemia.  I had asked him to help me get some supplies on my day off, and he said he would like to do that. But he got sick. 

So, I gave him an IV, like usual, to help him through his crisis (we have broken the 30-gallon mark on IV fluids for him!).  But he still wanted to follow through on his commitment.

The Nissan didn’t need an IV, just Jackenson

We hooked his IV up in the car and headed to the pharmacy.  We were able to get what we needed for the clinic. 

Please pray for Jackenson.  He is almost 17 now but doesn’t always take care of himself like he should.  But when he gets sick, he is very sick.  He was getting sick just as I left to come back to Michigan. He told me that when I got back if I didn’t see him, he would be in Heaven waiting for me. It broke my heart. 

He is doing better now but I know each crisis takes a toll on his body.

———

I am in Michigan on furlough now, and am enjoying cool summer weather. 

I am here for 4 weeks and will be doing 3 weeks of summer camps during that time.  I will also be doing some speaking and fundraising for the ministry. And having a little R&R — some time to recover from life in Haiti.

I want to thank you all for your support of Kelby’s Kids!  For your prayer support, that protects me from things I will never know about, as well as your faithful financial support, and your words of encouragement. 

As I heard the other day, you are the wind beneath my wings!  Without you, the ministry of Kelby’s Kids would not be able to do all it does in the lives of everyone that come to the clinics in Haiti.  Thank-You seems so inadequate, but I hope it will do on this side of Heaven until you get to know the true power of your partnership with Kelby’s Kids!!

Thank-you for allowing me to serve on your behalf!

If you would like to become a financial partner with Kelby’s Kids please click the “Give” page on my web site for more information.

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

Stories For Your Day

I hope you enjoyed these 10 daily posts. They should bring you up to speed on what’s happening with Kelby’s Kids in Haiti! 

If you missed any of them, just access them all on the blog page. 

The work in Haiti is often a struggle — but is so worth it.  It’s a blessing to be able to work on your behalf as you keep this ministry going strong through your prayers, encouragement, and finances!

Please let me know if you like this format better than my standard, longer blog posts. (Leave a note in the comments or on facebook). If there’s good feedback, I will try to stay caught up on posts (not 10 at once!) and make them the shorter single-story posts.

What you talking about Willis?! (I’m not sure this little kiddo believes me, but I will work harder at keeping you in the loop of the work of Kelby’s Kids.)

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby  

The Miracle Baby

On November 14th, Judith came to the Maternity clinic for the first time. 

On December 5th we did an ultrasound of her baby.  At first glance it was obvious that there was a problem.  The baby’s heart was much larger than it should have been. 

I took a video of the baby’s heart on the ultrasound screen and sent them off to my friend in Chicago (an OB nurse who gives me consults for my ultrasounds). 

Both the ultra sound tech and the Doctor said things weren’t looking good.  The doctor said the baby had a 0% chance of surviving in Haiti.

Doc said it would be difficult for baby, even if it were in a large hospital in the U.S. She said the baby would most likely not survive to full term.

———

Mom had a follow up appointment on December 12th. I’d listed one thing in the comments of her file: “Fetal Death Counseling.” 

It was very sad to have to tell her that the baby had no chance of surviving in Haiti.  I told her that we needed to monitor her to be sure that when the baby died that she delivered it before she got sick.

But, I also told her that I believed in miracles — and that I was not giving up until it was obvious that there was nothing more that could be done.

A week later, on December 18, Mom came in so I could check her and the baby. Mom told me she was going out to the Providences (people often go to the countryside when they are sick, as they feel it’s a healthier place).  I told her I was worried about her being in the rural country, with even less access to medical care. She said she was still going…

Fast forward a couple months, and in February, one of my translators got a call from the Mom.

Mom reported she had the baby! And it was alive! Due to the unrest at the time in Port-au-Prince, she hadn’t been able to get back to the clinic. Those were all the details we could get from her!   My translators asked her to come to the clinic just as soon as she could make it.  As time went on the possibility of survival seemed less and less likely.

And we didn’t see her again until May 1.

———

That’s the day Judith walked back into the clinic. But, on that day, Judith wasn’t by herself. She carried a baby in her arms — Melissa! A healthy and beautiful little baby Miracle! 

The Miracle baby!!

Melissa is a very healthy 14.3 pounds at 3 months old and doing very well!  While she has a very slight heart murmur it sounds like something she will soon outgrow. (WOW!)

I told Judith I hope she knows what a miracle her baby is! And that she should daily thank God, and raise Michelle to follow the Miracle-Worker.

It never seems like enough, so I want to say thank-you again! I hope you know what a true blessing you are! Thank you for your continued prayers and financial support of the ministry of Kelby’s Kids! Together we’re bringing hope and healing to so many! And, together, we’re witnessing miracles!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby   

The Littlest

Bright and early one morning, I was at home getting ready for Maternity clinic, and I got a call.

The security guard at the clinic alerted me that they had let a lady in the gate who had a premature baby. The said it was two months early and was really little. I hurried to the clinic, not really sure what I would find or be able to do. 

When I arrived, and met the mom, she said she carried the baby to full-term — and that she was already two months old. 

She said she came to the clinic to try and get an IV for her baby, Roseberline. Kids weighing less than 3 kg or 6.6 lbs. aren’t able to get vaccinated). 

When I undressed little Roseberline she looked like a miniature geriatric patient. 

Roseberline at 2 months old and 1.58 kilograms or 3.57 pounds

Her skin was very loose and wrinkled, her ribs were showing, and her hair was thin. Mom said that she was OK when she was born but she has gotten a little smaller.  I was anxious to see what the scale would say.

The numbers were not encouraging at 1.58 kg or 3.57 lbs. 

I called Rachel, our friend from Pen Lavi (one of the inpatient malnutrition centers we use) to see if she was back in Haiti yet. She was actually in the airport in Miami, on her way back!  She said she would stop by the clinic when she landed in Port au Prince. 

Mom said she breastfed her some, but admitted she mostly fed pudding to Roseberline (pudding is flour and water, or smashed saltine crackers and water) and some baby food. It was not enough to help her child grow.

When Rachel arrived she said, and latter confirmed, that Roseberline was the smallest full term baby that their inpatient center had ever had.

She started out doing well at Pen Lavi, but mom has been trying to come up with excuses to leave the center with her.  She really doesn’t want to breast feed her.

She has gained some weight, but not enough to be healthy and do well at home on her own yet.  They have been working hard to get her to stay.  Please pray that her mom will do the right thing! We all want Roseberline to grow up to be a healthy and happy little girl!

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

Another Sick Baby And Another Ambulance

One of the moms from Maternity clinic brought her baby back the other day. She said baby hadn’t had any bowel movements for a couple days. 

She was asked to come back for some follow-up appointments, for a weight check, and an evaluation. But I didn’t see her until today. 

When I started to evaluate her, it was obvious that the baby was sick. 

She was very jaundice.  Her eyes were extremely yellow.  Her tongue was yellow, and when she would stick it out, even her skin was turning yellow. Mom had been only feeding her a couple times a day — and it simply wasn’t enough. 

She was obviously not doing well and would need specialized care I could no provide at the clinic. 

I knew St. Damion’s Children’s Hospital was her best option, but also knew the hospital was full. I called HERO, hoping that they would know of a way to get the baby admitted. 

They did! They got her accepted, but with the understanding that there wasn’t a bed for the baby, and mom would have to hold her the whole time. HERO came and picked her up, and transported her to the hospital. 

I’ve not heard any more about her, but I’m hopeful she’s doing OK and will return to the clinic someday soon!

———

Now …

Get ready for your cuteness fix for the day!!

Don’t you just want to kiss those cute little cheeks!!

Until next time.

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby

A Difficult Start

The other day just as we were starting malnutrition clinic, Karen came in and said there was a sick baby at the gate who hasn’t eaten. 

Thee father brought him into the clinic, and told us the child was four days old — and hasn’t eaten yet! Because of the shape of the baby’s mouth, they have only been able to put a little milk on his tongue.  He had a very significant cleft palate. 

Dad and a friend walked 10 hours to get to the clinic around 10am! (They had been walking since midnight from their home in the mountains.) 

Dad said that they had not named the baby yet (possibly because they assumed he would not survive). 

The baby actually looked pretty good for a four-day old that hadn’t eaten! His blood sugar was 37.

  Hypoglycemic episodes are detrimental to the brain of an infant.  I knew that he would not be able to drink from a bottle so I mixed some formula and used a syringe and tube to put it in the back of his throat where he could swallow it without it getting into his sinuses.

I got some formula in him but did not have a very big improvement in his blood sugar.  I decided that he would need an IV with some sugar in it.

He didn’t have very good veins and he needed the sugar.  I figured if it works in your veins it will work in your stomach too, so I gave him the IV fluid orally and it brought his blood sugar up nicely! 

We called HERO and they transported him up to God’s Littlest Angels where they could care for him and teach his family to care for him.  He is doing well, gaining weight, and has surgery scheduled for October. So thankful that they brought him to us when they did. He may not have made it another day.

———-

It’s sometimes hard to have to do your work when all you want to do is hang out and play with the kids.

This little guy and I were making faces and playing peak-a-boo during the opening of clinic while we talk to the adults

Until No Child Dies,

Kelby