Dear Family and Friends,
I wanted to give you an update on Crizantina’s progress. I will be leaving this Thursday to visit her for five days (thanks again Craig…but Jeff still may not have a tattoo!!!) I called the nurse’s station yesterday and they told me that she was doing very well and that they were looking forward to me being with Crizantina because she cries for me frequently. I then asked to speak with Crizantina. Last week, Crizantina told me she was in pain all the time. This week, she told me that she was in no pain and that her legs were “getting better.” I asked her if there was anything that she needed or wanted and she said, “No, I have everything.” I asked her if she was sure and then she told me she would like some gum. She told me how excited she is to see me and, once again, that she loved me (in English!!) To that I say “AMEN!!!!”
Jeff and I will be moving to Charleston next Tuesday. I will be working with Children’s Medical Assessment Center, Inc., a non-profit agency that deals with child abuse and neglect. The founder and director, Dr. Betsy Baker, is a close friend of mine that has been extremely supportive and encouraging of me. I am looking forward to getting back into the field of child abuse and neglect and I strongly support the vision that Betsy has for child victims and their families. Currently, she is having difficulty raising funds to keep her doors open. If any of you have suggestions or know resources, please let me know.
Jeff is still in the process of securing a job. He was given an offer working with emotionally troubled boys but the salary WAY too low. Please remember Jeff’s need for a job in your prayers.
Jeff and I have some on-going projects in Romania that we would like for you to remember in your prayers. There is a specific baby in Romania, Atilla, that we would like you to pray for. Atilla was in the hospital project that I started but is being moved into an orphanage. I have found an American family that is interested in adopting him but they cannot afford $15,000 (the standard fee from most international adoption agencies.) We are trying to find a way to circumvent the system but it does not look hopeful.
The other need is for my friends, Pavel and Marinela, and their four young children. Because of the economical conditions in Romania, they are having much difficulty surviving. They desire to come to the US so that they can raise their family in a better environment. In order to do this quickly and effectively, Pavel must secure a job in the US…before he comes. And, a family or organization must be willing and able to show the financial ability to support them while they are here. Please pray for my friends. This is going to be a difficult and time consuming process.
Jeff and I will continue to keep you apprised of our ministry here and in Romania. Thanks for your letters, financial support, and prayers. May God bless you beyond your imagination.
Basking in the Son,
Michelle
Posted on January 12th, 1999 by Michelle
Filed under: Michelle's Journal