“In my community, respect for traditions is an important value: certain illnesses require sacrifices and spiritual rituals.” Although I (Tabitha) am the one in front of the class at this lesson on community health at the nursing school, I am learning at least as much myself. The students come from different ethnic groups in Senegal, each with their own values and customs. The choice to live a healthy lifestyle or visit a clinic are often not an individual but a collective decision, closely linked to traditions and beliefs.
From a teaching hospital to the countryside: the story of Dr. Brian*
We have a new doctor at the Galle Kisal clinic in northern Senegal! Dr. Brian is not just any doctor: he has a ton of experience and is training to be an infectiologist. Why did he trade a well-paid job in a teaching hospital for work as a rural doctor? He doesn’t have a clear […][...]
February 28th, 2023 - 13:50 § in Africa
It starts with one sheep
When Sidy came to faith, his business collapsed. He was looked down upon by colleagues and family, and no one was buying his merchandise anymore. But Sidy didn’t sit back. He bought a sheep, and then another and slowly expanded his flock. He was happy when he was finally able to resell a sheep[...]
February 28th, 2023 - 13:41 § in Church
Eighty doctors and nurses and thousands of sheep
A group of young shepherds stand chatting on the street corner at dusk. A nurse starts talking to them and he shares about the forgiveness he has experienced through Jesus. The boys listen intently; they have never heard this before![...]
October 12th, 2022 - 10:51 § in Africa
Community health in northern Senegal
A surprised smile followed by a heartfelt welcome as we enter a small, thatched hut where an old man is sitting on a mat on the floor. Seydi has been semi-paralyzed since his stroke, and he is unable to come to the clinic. Although surrounded by family members, he is in bad shape. Our new […][...]
Opening nursing school
At the opening speech of the Christian nursing school, Pastor Aliou almost broke down in tears, “We have prayed a lot for Christians to have a place in society in Senegal and now I see it happening before my very eyes.” On Jan. 19, 2022, Senegal’s first Christian nursing and midwif[...]
Mercy Ships in Senegal
It has not gone unnoticed by many people in the Netherlands: Mercy Ships has a brand-new hospital ship and it is on its way to Senegal! They are coming to finish their work that began upon arrival in Senegal in 2019. Tabitha has been working closely with Mercy Ships in order for their work to [&hell[...]
