In the beginning of September we found out that Oscar had been terribly sick.  He had a fever, was lethargic, and could barely get out of bed.  His aunt had him tested and discovered he contracted dengue fever, one of the many diseases transmitted by mosquitos.  Since we are in rainy season, mosquitos are everywhere (when it isn’t raining) and the possibility of getting bitten by a mosquito with this or other diseases is common.  Aside from sapping one’s energy, it also creates fever and body aches.  Oscar missed about a week of school until the medicine we got him started to help him recover.  He is now playing “catch up” as his study partner in school kept track of the work he missed so he could recuperate.  For more information on dengue and how it affects those who contract it, you can read more about it here.

http://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue

Carmen stayed the weekend with one of our missionary families.  She helped with a small project in our ministry center but also got to spend some quality time with us.  It was a great time to grow in our relationship with her as she shared some of her struggles as a teenage girl with school, friends, and romantic interests.  We were able to encourage her and guide her that the most important thing is seeking God’s will for her life.  Before returning home on Sunday, she went to church with us and really enjoyed it.  One of our biggest concerns for the family is their spiritual growth as there doesn’t seem to be many options in regards to churches where they live.  It was good to expose Carmen to the possibilities and explain to her more about the importance of her relationship with God.