CURE-Niamey, Niger, West Africa

   In late Aug 2010, I had the privilege of going back to Niger to install the lab equipment in a new CURE children’s orthopedic hospital in the capital city of Niamey.

   The boxes of equipment and supplies had been sent weeks earlier, so they had cleared customs and were waiting for me when I arrived.

   It was a new facility still under construction, so everything was in the process of being made ready for the grand opening the next month.

   The first day, I met the lab tech  (“A”) who had recently been hired. As we unpacked the boxes together, we chatted about our faith and beliefs. We quickly discovered that we were brothers in Christ, even though we had come from such differing backgrounds. During our training times, we had many opportunities to share our spiritual journeys, and to learn more about each other.

   The installation of equipment and training went very smoothly, as “A” was a fast learner and very keen to try new things. Since we had no “real” patients to work on (as the hospital was not yet officially open), we decided to take a 7 hour bus trip out to Galmi Hospital where I had served for over 11 years. While at Galmi, “A” was able to work alongside the lab staff there so I could assess his technical skills in a real working environment. He was warmly welcomed by the local staff, and was a great help in the laboratory.

   On our return to Niamey a few days later, we completed the final set-up of the laboratory at CURE. I was able to meet his wife and family, and to see where he lived. Like all mission work, relationships are so important. God gave me the opportunity not only to train a Nigerien lab tech in new lab procedures, but also to get to know him personally and to mutually encourage one another spiritually.

   Our last morning together was “English only”….at “A’s” request! He wanted to practice his English – which I think was much better than my French. I think we both learned a lot of French and English grammar during our time together.

   Pray for “A” as he works in the lab each day. He not only draws the blood and receives specimens, but he also performs all the testing on the equipment supplied by WWLab. I still hear from him from time to time as we share prayer requests.

   The ministry of WWLab Improvement goes far beyond lab equipment and training. As God gives opportunity, we can share His love with the people we come in contact with around the world. It is a joy to serve Him in this way. The impact of WWLab around the world is great. Eternity will reveal the magnitude of this impact.

James Borody