Tuesday, February 26, 2013

The Next Step


                                                                                                                        February 26, 2013
Dear Friends and Family,
As most of you know, I have recently completed the process of nursing school, passed the NCLEX and now have my Registered Nurse license! I feel so humbled and blessed that the Lord has brought me through this journey and want to thank you for your support and prayers. Nearly twelve years ago, I felt inclined to pursue nursing as a skill that would open many doors of opportunity in the future. I have found that providing health care is a practical way to be engaged in people’s lives, even in the midst of some of their most vulnerable times.
With that in mind, I have decided to take the opportunity to travel to the Philippines for a two week training course focusing on the healthcare needs specific to the maternal / child population in developing nations. In addition, the course will cover disaster preparedness - both in how to survive and offer aid in natural disaster situations. The time will be divided between an intensive classroom lecture phase the first week and then practicum in a local village/garbage dump settlement, a refugee camp, government hospital, etc the following week. I believe this will be invaluable and strategic preparation for the things that I want to pursue in the future.
This course is offered through a nonprofit nondenominational organization called Mercy in Action. You can read more about the ministry at http://www.mercyinaction.com.  My personal expenses for this trip are covered, but Mercy in Action operates a charity birthing center in Olongapo, Philippines, which depends on donated supplies for their outreach and service to the poor. It is in my heart to bless them with some needed equipment; specifically a fetal Doppler and an infant pulse oximeter monitor. If you would like to participate in providing some of these supplies, please let me know.
I will be joining students from the Southwest College of Natural Medicine from April 3rd through the 11th for this exciting opportunity. I plan to fly out of Boise on April 1st and return on April 12th and covet your prayers for safety, provision and purpose. Thank you for your friendship and prayers.

Blessings,
Jennifer Fluke RN