| | Lizan's
Heart Surgery
Sabbath Eve4/27/2007 Lizan Is On Her Way Home
Filed
by  There
were more than the usual emotions to experience for ''crossing day'' as
preparations were finalized for Lizan and her parents to leave
Jerusalem this morning. Through last evening and this morning a
decision which was a difficult one for me was made to send Lizan and
her parents across the border on their own to Amman. Once there they
will be helped by Dirk and his family to continue with travel plans to
Iraq. This meant I went only as far as the Israeli border, giving all
the instructions I could to Lizan's parents on the way there, and told
them goodbye at the border instead of the airport. Since Abu Lizan had
crossed the border alone when he came for Lizan's surgery, we felt
confident that God would help them while he guided his family through
after being told what to expect as they exited. Although somewhat
anti-climactic after spending the last four months together, it was
still a joy to know they were going with Lizan's heart now repaired and
healthy.....and wherever we said goodbye, it would not change the place
each of us has in the others' lives and hearts. Staying here will allow
me to spend time encouraging Ahmad, Jihan, and Hana, our other precious patients, as they continue their respective journeys towards new hearts and lives.
As
the time approached to leave, other members of the staff came to say
goodbye to this family who are now our friends. Alex tells of the
morning this way:
The dawn of
Friday mornings are times when Israelis awake to a day readying for the
Sabbath by grocery shopping, running errands, or getting in a good
work-out. Though the staff of Shevet Achim typically is released
from their normal duties on this day of preparation, each one of them
found themselves wandering over to the Shevet Achim center to stand by
Lizan and her parents during their last moments in
Jerusalem. This family has stayed with us in Jerusalem for
three weeks, broke bread with us, and shared the trials and triumphs of
the surgery and their lives.
Though
few words were spoken, warm glances, gentle caresses, and friendly
kisses were exchanged during an hour-long goodbye which finished
with a prayer for health, safety, and the continuation of their
spiritual journey.
As
we all walked them to the van we were again invited to visit them in
Iraq one day. The father expressed that we were the "light of his
eyes" for helping to save the life of his daughter. Again we
kissed and hugged and said "Jesus be with you." So the journey
continues . . .
Once in the van, we talked of
details about both the crossing and Amman, where they will stay the
night with our friend Perjin. Then the back seat went quiet as they
napped for part of the ride. For the last few minutes' ride we again
discussed what the process would be for them once inside the border
terminals. Upon our arrival at the border, we loaded the cart with
their luggage and shared handshakes and hugs. I cherish the snuggly
hugs of little Lizan as I told her goodbye for the last time.
 I
am thankful to know that this dear family is safely in God's hands,
entrusted fully to His care as they enter the last phase of their
journey back to Iraq. Wouldn't it be a gift to know the plans God has
for their lives from this point on? Even though we cannot know the
details, we can know that because of His great love He created each of
them for something wonderfully special. Lizan now has a hopeful future
ahead of her, and we give God the glory for all He has done, and will
do for her and her parents.
 Thursday4/26/2007 Lizan Going Home!
Filed
by Lizan got a good report
today from the echocardiogram, and is released to go home to Iraq! This
is wonderful news for her family and all of us.
As
we waited for the doctors to finish the final medical report, Lizan's
family had time to say goodbye to Ahmad, one of Lizan's favorite
people. She is too young to understand the circumstances under which
she met Ahmad, but she loves him like a big brother, and he loves her
like a little sister. Although these families live several hours apart
in Iraq, they hope to visit each other when they are both back there.
Please pray for us as we
cross the border to Jordan tomorrow. I will be thanking God as we go
for all He has done in the life of Lizan and her parents.
Dr.
Rula from Bethlehem performing Lizan's final echo in Israel
Thursday
4/19/2007
Left the Hospital
Filed
by
Lizan was allowed to leave the
hospital today and will spend at least a week with us in
Jerusalem! This was surprising news for me when I arrived at
Wolfson today with fellow staff Donna, David and Dirk. There
were hugs and laughter all around.
Although Lizan and her parents could
have left any time from the morning on, they chose to stay several more
hours. Lizan's father acted as interpreter for the doctors,
between Arabic and the particular Kurdish dialect of Hana and her
mother. Hana is our
newest arrival in Israel.
Back in Jerusalem, we shared the evening
meal together. (Early this morning a friend brought me a
large amount of food she had prepared. Neither of us
knew then that I would need to feed 17 people this evening,
but God did.) Now
Lizan and her parents are tucked in for the night in the room next to
me.
Lizan will have an
echocardiogram on Thursday of next week to see how she's
doing. We're all excited to have her here at the house again,
but we join her parents in hoping that they will be able to go home to
Iraq soon.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at
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 Tuesday4/17/2007 Strolling the Ward Filed
by The news awaiting me about Lizan today
was mixed. The great news is that she was sent from the ICU to the
intermediate ICU on Sunday after the chest tube was removed; and then
after only one night she was moved to the children's
surgical ward yesterday. The not-so-great news is that she has
developed a fever. Of course, the doctors are treating the fever, and
Lizan was still able to go out in her stroller today.
Because I spent much of today with Hana
and her mother, the visit with Lizan was very brief. I did get
to walk with them for a few minutes, and visit a bit in the
''fish room'' (waiting room area). Lizan was fascinated by the
colorful fish in the aquarium.
Perhaps due to the fever Lizan
was not giving out so many smiles today, but by the time I was
leaving she did give me some of her photogenic, happy faces. Her
recovery is going very well, and we are very thankful. Thank
you for your continued prayers for Lizan's rapid healing. May
God continue His work in her life, and her parents' lives as
well.
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me when Lizan's page is updated
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 Sunday
4/15/2007 Capturing Everyone's Hearts
Filed
by
Walking
into the hospital today, I found Lizan was being examined by doctors
and nurses in the ICU to see if it was time to remove her chest tube.
Since this included placing another IV line into the top of her hand,
she was not a very happy girl. But as soon as they finished this
procedure, she was sitting up in her bed smiling and playing. What a
joy to see this! (The sore on her face is from removal of the tape
which held down the oxygen line.)
I took
with me some
cards for Lizan made by a group of children in America. Lizan was
captivated by the colors of these cards along with the photos of some
of the children who made them for her. Her parents say thank you to all
who  made
these cards. Um Lizan ("mother of Lizan") is keeping all of the items
given or written to them to share with Lizan when she is old enough to
under-
stand this big event in her young life.
Because
the decision was made to remove the chest tube, Lizan could not have
anything to eat or drink. She began to become fussy and sleepy, but as
is her habit, was fighting sleep. She eventually became so sleepy that
she fell asleep sitting up, which was quite humorous, especially to her
mom. When her mother would try to lay her down, she would awaken and
begin to cry, even though within a minute she was sleeping again. At
last she could fight it no longer, and allowed herself to fall asleep
after her mother laid her down.
Lizan's
parents were pointing out to me one of Lizan's new pastimes - watching
for nurses. She has figured out that a visit by one of the nurses or
doctors usually includes something unpleasant, so she carefully watches
everyone who approaches her bed, and begins to cry if it's one of the
nurses or doctors. It is funny to watch her keep her eyes on whoever is
around her bed as she determines what sort of response to give each
person.
Please keep praying for Lizan's
recovery to be a
fast one. Her parents are encouraged, and so grateful for the help they
are receiving. Thanks be to God for His provision to allow this to
happen!
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
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Shabbat Eve
4/13/2007 Breathing On Her Own
Filed
by
It was a relief to see
little Lizan peacefully sleeping when I walked into the ICU yesterday
after taking advantage of a chance for a brief visit. The doctor said
she is very stable, and progressing well. She was breathing totally on
her own! Her parents had been asked to leave the room while Lizan was
resting so they too could rest. When we found each other, we had a
short visit too. They were much more relaxed than the day before, and
very thankful to God for how well their daughter is doing.
Um
Lizan ("mother of Lizan") still has a bit of a cold, so please continue
to pray for her healing. Soon Lizan should be moved to the intermediate
ICU, and then there will be much more need of her mother's hands-on
care. Please join me in thanking God for how quickly Lizan is healing,
and continue to pray for her to recover quickly. You may also click
to send an
e-mail message to Lizan
and
her parents.
SPECIAL FEATURE:
Save a Child's Heart
photographer Sheila Shalhevet (pictured at left) was in the operating
room with Lizan this week, and has kindly made available two of her
exceptional photos, shown below:
1)
pediatric surgeon Lior Sasson (himself from an Iraqi Jewish background)
and his team work on little Lizan;
2) Lizan's parents see
her for the first time after surgery and receive reassurance from the
Israeli medical staff.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
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Wednesday
4/11/2007 Lizan is Awake!
Filed
by
Upon
entering the ICU today I could hear a baby crying, and found that it
was Lizan trying to wake up from her anesthesia. Her parents stood
helplessly by trying to soothe her, but to no avail. I asked the nurse
in attendance how Lizan was doing, and was told she was stable. She had
just been extubated, and was very unhappy with the handling she was
getting. Next the nurse had to change the dressing around the chest
tube, which caused Lizan to cry even harder. Her parents were worried
about this, fearing that it might somehow be bad for her heart or the
surgical incision. The nurse assured them that after she was not being
moved around she would probably settle down.
 After
a while, she was given some medicine to help settle her, and eventually
her parents left the ICU while Lizan slept. We found them sitting
together after we visited Ahmad, and invited them to come to lunch with
us. Some visitors from the UK were with me today so they could see the
work here, and we had a nice lunch together.
When
we
returned to the ICU, Lizan was awake! She was much more settled, and
paying close attention to her parents. Her mother is wearing a mask to
prevent any germs from her sore throat compromising Lizan's health; she
has been given some medication to help her feel better. Hearing mom's
voice calmed her, and she did not mind if momma had the mask on. She
was very alert, and beginning to wiggle around -- she is normally an
active little one. The nurse handed Um Lizan a medicine dropper so she
could begin to give Lizan water, and Lizan was very thirsty.
 It
was a joy to see Lizan looking around at her parents and taking in the
activity around her bed. Let us pray that her recovery continues to go
quickly. Please keep praying for her mother too to have quick healing
so that she can be face-to-face with Lizan immediately. Pray for
stamina for both of these young parents as they care for their
daugther. Perhaps right away we will see evidence of the new things
Lizan can do because of the repair of her heart. Thank God!
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
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 Tuesday 10:45 pm
4/10/2007 Lizan's Surgery a Success!
Filed
by
Today
was the day Lizan's parents had been both hoping for and anxious
about.... the intense combination of longing for the best and fearing
the worst for their baby daughter, intersecting at the time of her open
heart surgery.
Recently Lizan's father made the
decision to go
to the Israeli embassy in Amman, where he was waiting alone, to see if
he could receive a visa to Israel for a time long enough to be with
Lizan and her mother during the surgery. We were stunned to find out
that he was granted the visa and on his way here. He was told that he
was ''one in a thousand'' and that of the other 60 people who applied
for a visa to come to Israel the same day he did, he was the only one
to receive the visa! It is easy to see from these events that
God
opened a door for him to come and be with his family, and though we
were surprised, we were thankful for their sakes and Lizan's. They
adore each other! Because the Save A Child's Heart house had no room
for both parents to share a room, we helped him find a place to stay
near the hospital.
So last night we all
went to the
hospital to admit Lizan, and today they faced this agonizing day
together. I was amazed at how calmly they waited through the eight long
hours of surgery. Yes, there were tearful moments, but for the most
part they were able to endure the wait with quiet endurance. It was a
blessing for them to have Ahmad's mother stopping by to sit with them,
to assure them from her recent experience with her son, that their
anxieties of waiting were normal, and that soon they would be able to
see Lizan. She described everything about that first day's waiting and
watching.
Finally we got a call from the
Save a Child's
Heart photographer, who was in the operating room today documenting
Lizan's surgery, alerting us that she was about to be wheeled up into
the ICU. We were able to walk those precious few dozen yards together
down the hallway until they closed the door to the ICU and said they'd
let them know when they could come in to see their little one. There
were the tears of relief, as well as questions after seeing Lizan in
such a helpless state.
Several times her father
mentioned how tired she looked after that
long, long operation. While agreeing with his observation, I encouraged
him that soon she would wake up with a new heart, and be stronger than
she has ever been in her short life. Before I left, he bent over to
kiss his daughter. What a blessing!
Because
Um Lizan ("mother of Lizan") has the sniffles, she did not want to be
too close to Lizan
today. She went back outside to talk to Um Ahmad, leaving Abu Lizan
("father of Lizan")
sitting watchfully by his daughter. I went to tell him
goodbye,
reminding him that people from all over the world were praying for
Lizan and for them. He wanted me to say thank you to everyone for this.
They are very grateful for the donations given by strangers to them
which have allowed this to happen... they told me last week that they
understand things differently now than they did in Iraq. They say they
did not really know about how other people were, but now they see
things in a new way because of being here. Thank God for such changes,
and for those still yet to come into their lives.
Please
continue your prayers for this precious girl and her parents. I look
forward to sharing her progress with you in the coming weeks.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
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 Tuesday
1:27 am
4/10/2007 Lizan Admitted for
Surgery
Filed
by
This
evening we got the word of Lizan's admission just as preparation of
dinner was finished. Quickly we ate and Lizan's parents packed for
their hospital stay, and David came to drive us down to Wolfson. The
admission paperwork and pre-op tests were done over the next several
hours (Lizan is pictured here on her hospital bed), and David and I
tried to entertain Lizan as she endured the more unpleasant parts of
this process. We also spoke to one of the doctors about Um Lizan's sore
throat, and they were checking on this as we drove back to Jerusalem.
Please pray for all of them tomorrow as she goes through her surgery.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
email:
Monday 6:11 pm
4/9/2007 Lizan On Her Way to
Hospital, Surgery Tomorrow
Filed
by
We
just received a call from the hospital asking us to bring Lizan
immediately for admission for surgery in the morning. The doctors are
ending their Passover holiday tonight, and setting the surgery
schedule. We had been told Lizan might be tomorrow depending
on
other emergency cases taking precedence, and the surgeon's scheduling.
Her
parents had already been asking this evening when I returned from Amman
about whether they'd go, and within about an hour after saying we had
not heard yet, we got this news. Please pray for them. Um Lizan has a
very sore throat, and needs healing as well as stamina for this time.
They have been concerned, but now are both excited and anxious. I told
them before we drove to the hospital, while they were packing, that I'd
write to you to pray. They said, "Thank you; we need this."
Please
pray for the life of this precious girl as she undergoes open heart
surgery tomorrow. Her condition is complicated -- we can go to the
Great Physician for her and for her parents as well. Will update
tomorrow.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
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 Shabbat Eve, 3/30/2007 Learning to Walk
Filed
by
Although we have been
anxiously waiting for surgeries for Lizan, Jihan, and Ahmad,
the doctors schedule surgeries based on many factors for numerous
patients. When it became clear that none of our Iraqi patients would be
scheduled for the week before Passover, we were invited to bring the
families here to Jerusalem to give them a change of scenery. So Tuesday
evening we brought our Iraqi guests to the Shevet Achim house to visit
for several days.
Little Lizan
has been a delight to
have at the house. She enjoys all the other children who are
around her here, but is shy of most adults. I must admit I really enjoy
being almost like a member of the family who gets a big smile when she
sees me. Last night there was a particularly fun time as Lizan tries to
learn to walk. She does not quite know how yet, but if you pick her up
just a little above the ground, she moves her feet like she is running
-- a very cute and humorous sight!
We
looked together at some pictures on the computer of the first day Lizan
and her parents arrived in Jordan for the echocardiogram screening in
December. She has grown alot in these 3 months! We have not yet heard
when her surgery might be scheduled, but her parents are understanding
of the fact that the doctors know best how to treat their daughter.
One
of the biggest blessings for me has been to be included in the
wonderful meals the families are preparing. When it is ready, we gather
on the rug in the ''common room'' of our downstairs level of the house,
and eat the tasty dishes in the traditional method -- sharing
everything. I have not been allowed to lift a finger to prepare or
clean up after these feasts. While this is hard simply because I'd like
to help and join in with them, they make it very clear that this is a
time where they are giving back in gratitude for all that has been done
for them. This has a humbling effect which is hard to describe...
clearly it is another chance to thank God for all He has done, for all
He has provided to allow these things to happen. Last night several of
the Shevet Achim team were here and we all joined in for the meal. It
is true that there is special fellowship around a table, and we have
enjoyed the opportunity to participate in this way.
 Thank
you for continuing to pray for all that God is doing and wants to do in
the midst of these families. Please remember Lizan as she is
not
on a good sleeping schedule in Jerusalem, and this is proving difficult
for her mother as she waits to hear it is
time for Lizan to have the surgery she needs.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
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Shabbat Eve, March 23,
2007 Lizan Turns One Today!
Filed
by
Yesterday Lizan was
dismissed from the hospital following her catheterization at around
lunchtime, so we had the privilege and joy of sharing the celebration
of Lizan's first birthday at the Save A Child's Heart house.
We travelled over in
time to set up the refreshments while the other children at the house
were either napping, or finishing their day of check-ups at the
hospital. When everyone came together, we enjoyed lighting a candle and
singing to her as she looked curiously around the room through her
innocent, trusting eyes. I was excited to present to Lizan a
gift (a small stuffed lion and lamb, pictured below) which I chose from
a box of
toys purchased by a group of children in the US.
For ''party favors'' for
the other children, I took get-well cards that the US
children hand-made... and they loved receiving them! Lizan,
like children everywhere, was as interested in the activity of the
little ones around her as in the gift I took. It was a fun
time to
see all the children interacting as we visited.
It was very special to
have
Jihan, Riwan, and Ahmad there to participate, and the other children
from several African countries currently being treated, along with
their parents. They enjoyed seeing Lizan returned from her first phase
of treatment as they shared our simple snacks together.
We await word from the
doctors about the date for Lizan's surgery. It was a blessing to me
yesterday in speaking with her mother to hear her say with confidence
that she knows that the doctors know best, for this is said in the
midst of both the desire for Lizan to be well and to return to their
home in Iraq. It points out the relationship of trust which develops
between the doctors and patients which knows no political, religious,
or nationalistic boundaries, but instead focuses on saving the life of
this precious child. And in the midst of these dynamics we have the
opportunity to express the love of God which He has shown to us.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
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 Wednesday
March 21,
2007
Groggy After
Cath
But OK
Filed
by
After
a long delay in traffic on the way to the hospital today I arrived at
Wolfson and went to the waiting area where I expected to find the
mothers of Lizan and Ahmad waiting for their children to return from
their catheterizations. When I did not see them there, I continued
looking and returned to the waiting room again -- still no mothers. I
began to wonder if I would have a chance to ''be there'' for them as a
support during this trying experience, when an Iraqi man who settled in
Israel many years ago came to the same waiting area checking on the
families. Between us we found the correct waiting area of the hospital
and arrived after Lizan was just brought out of surgery and heading to
her room.
I walked over to see how she
was doing after
spending a little time with Ahmad's mother first. I found Lizan awake
but very groggy from her surgery, but very aware of who was around her.
She was staring intently at everyone, and playing with a rattle. I
brought a hand-knitted doll which someone donated to us for the
children, and she was captivated by the bright colors.
The doctors do not yet
know when
Lizan's ''big surgery'' might be scheduled, so I cannot tell you any
more about that. But I can tell you that she will be one year old on
Friday, and we hope to spend a little time with her tomorrow marking
this special time with them. Please pray for Lizan's recuperation from
her catheterization, and that the doctor's will be able to schedule her
quickly for the final repair on her tiny heart. May the beginning of
her second year of life be full of healing and hope for her future. And
pray for her sweet mother who is anxiously awaiting the next phase of
her daughter's treatment.
Click
to send an e-mail message to Lizan
and
her father.
Monday
March 19,
2007
Click
on the play button below to see video of Lizan on the eve of her
catheterization:
 CathsWednesday Filed
by
Today when I went to the
hospital to visit with Riwan,
I found out that both Lizan and Ahmad
are scheduled for their pre-surgery heart catheterizations on Wednesday
morning.
(Click here to learn more about
catheterization). In the afternoon I went over to the Save a Child's
Heart
house to visit them, and found that Lizan was napping, but Ahmad and
both mothers were awake. We all had a very nice visit, but I could tell
there was a little anxiety over the upcoming procedures as I noticed a
couple of sighs where there usually are none.
I
believe that Lizan's mother is feeling a little disappointment that
Lizan might be in the hospital on her first birthday, which is
understandable. But it may be that she is able to go back to the
children's
house after only a short stay, so perhaps will be there instead. I
tried to be of some comfort to Um Lizan as a few tears were shed, and
assured her I would be there on Wednesday morning to wait with her
during the surgery.
Lizan woke up at
about this time, so I had the pleasure of cuddling with her for a
little while before leaving (see video above). Ahmad came to entertain
her as she awakened. She is sleeping better now than when they first
arrived, and seemed very settled and happy during my visit.
Will
you please pray for Lizan as she undergoes the catheterization on
Wednesday morning? And please lift up her sweet mother as she
anticipates this procedure and the ''big surgery'' which is ahead. She
is a young mother and this is her first child, and I know she is
thinking how much she would like her family around her. We are trying
to fill that niche in a small way, but let us pray that she will feel
the comforting presence of the Lord as He gently cares for those who
are with young.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
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Sunday, March 11,
2007
A Shopping Trip in Israel
Filed
by
Sunday
Lizan came to the Wolfson Medical Center for a visit with Lior Sasson,
the surgeon (himself son of Iraqi Jews) who will perform Lizan's heart
repair.
I sat with the families during a
media interview,
and then we had a chance to simply talk and visit together. One of our
Save a Child's Heart friends was celebrating her birthday, and she
asked us to join her for ice cream, which we all enjoyed. The mothers
particularly wanted to walk around the small shopping area attached to
the hospital for a few minutes, and the children enjoyed it as well --
a change of pace and a change of scenery. Then the time came to send
them back to the children's house, so we said goodbye till the next
time.
Please continue to pray for them
to be patient as they wait for their specific surgery dates to be set.
Both Lizan and Ahmad
will have catheterizations first, and then their other surgeries
afterwards. These are anticipated in the coming weeks, and we will keep
you posted when we know the dates.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
email:
Monday, March 5, 2007
Mothers Together
Filed
by
 Our
three newly-arrived Iraqi families were at the hospital today briefly
for one of the last tests they need before the doctors can evaluate
their readiness for surgery. This is the PPD test for tuberculosis.
Our Arab Israeli staff member Raneen and I were able to see
them
before they went upstairs for the tests, and it was special to see the
reunion of these mothers with Raneen. They remembered her help at the
echocardiogram screening in Amman at the end of December, and were
happy to see her again.
When they
returned downstairs
after the tests, they had the opportunity to meet Mazal, an Iraqi Jew
who has lived in Israel for many years. She began to visit our Iraqi
patients last year, serving as a friend and translator for them. It was
fun to see them get to know each other, and Mazal had brought along a
photo album of some of our patients who she has come to know. This
allowed our new families to see that Mazal had also spent time with
Delevan, Hawraa,
Santa Maria,
and others. Sometimes our families learn about the opportunity for help
for their child by learning of the help Shevet Achim and Save a Child's
Heart were able to give to families in their village....or by word of
mouth through friends or family members. These mothers recognized some
of the patients in Mazal's album which was another encouragement for
them.
Please keep praying for Riwan,
Ahmad and Lizan as
they prepare for their surgeries. Pray for their mothers, and their
families back home in Iraq. Pray for Abu Lizan in Jordan. It is an
exciting time, but not without anxiety. Pray especially for Um Lizan
and Lizan as she settles in to her new surroundings, that she will get
rest, and her mother will get rest.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
email:
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Iraqis Celebrating Purim
Filed
by
Today at the hospital at
least 6 groups came through celebrating Purim (the Jewish holiday
remembering Haman’s foiled plot from the book of Esther),
handing out small gifts and candy. At first the families were
overwhelmed with the loud singing and strangely-costumed individuals.
You'll see Lizan in her mother's arms in the video above, as
a group of Israeli teenagers sing traditional Purim
songs and hand out gifts to their guests. By the end though Riwan was waiting
at the door and watching the
hallway for new groups. Upon seeing them, he would run to collect the
toys and goodies they offered. In
general today the Iraqi families seemed in good spirits. The Iraqi
women met some
of the other mothers and laughed with them. Lizan is precious, Riwan is
very active, and a reserved Ahmad is slowly warming up to us.
Also today all three
kids,
Lizan, Riwan, and Ahmad, had echocardiograms done as preparations
continue for their upcoming open-heart surgeries. We will
update this page regularly, and you may sign up below to receive an
email notice each time there is a new posting.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
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Click the play arrow
below to see the arrival of
Lizan, Riwan, and Ahmad in Israel
Thursday
March 1,
2007
Crossing Day
Filed
by
Today has been a very
special day for Lizan, Ahmad,
and Riwan --
they have arrived in Israel!!
Crossing
days are always long ones, and although filled with excitement, they
are also tiring because of the intensity of the situation at hand.
Sometimes the long waits at the border terminals can be as tiring as
the long drives before and after we cross. Today was unique in this
respect, in that while our wait on the Jordan side was lengthy but
uneventful (pictured above), our wait on the Israeli side was very
short, and very eventful.
We found out night
before last that
we would be greeted at the border by some media who wanted to cover the
story of Israelis welcoming Iraqi children here for heart surgery. I
spoke with the mothers about it last night, making sure they were
comfortable with this, preparing them for it as best I could, since I
had never experienced it either! The lengthy wait on the Jordan side
for us made for a lengthy wait on the Israeli side for the press and
the other Shevet Achim team who were waiting to take us to the
hospital.... this was reality television for us -- lots of waiting!! 
When
we finally arrived on the Israeli side, we were met by a line-up of
cameras ... and the friendly faces of our Shevet Achim team. After a
few minutes of photos, we took our luggage inside -- on our own - no
one could help us because of security issues..... and until we finished
security, the press had to wait. Then there was a time of photos while
our passports were processed, during which time we simply rested and
spent time with each other, mostly watching the cameras watch us up
until the time we got in the van and drove on towards the hospital. 
As
we travelled, each of the mothers commented about what a beautiful land
Israel is ... and truly it was a beautiful day to drive by the green
mountains and fields, orchards of olive and fruit trees, and meadows of
wild flowers beside freshly turned earth. God answered our prayers for
good weather - we drove through a heavy rain in Jordan, but by the time
we arrived at the border, it was sunny, and we didn't see another drop
until we were just outside of Jerusalem tonight. We enjoyed lunch on
the way to the hospital, and the boys fell asleep. Lizan had a very
peaceful ride this morning through Jordan, napping for alot of the way.
This afternoon, she was not quite able to get settled down for another
nap. She was delightful virtually all day, undaunted by the attention
she had received from the media. Thank you for praying for her.
Finally
we arrived at the hospital late this afternoon, where we were met by
the camera-crews covering the day. This time there was a little more
interaction with the media as we met the doctors, and they described
the cases of the children. The children had some preliminary tests
done, and then -- to everyone's relief -- we were off to deliver them
to their new home away from home for the coming weeks. After settling
them into their room, we headed back to Jerusalem.
Please
continue to pray for them to be filled with peace as they progress
through the testing, and the doctors determine when the surgeries can
be done. We look forward to walking through this time with them.
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me when Lizan's page is updated
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Wednesday, February 28,
2007
Tomorrow to Israel
Filed
by
At last!! I got the call
this morning to pick up the visas at the Israeli embassy so that Lizan,
Riwan and Ahmad
can cross over tomorrow for their long-awaited heart surgeries. I
notified the families with Perjin's help, and told them that I would
bring the visas by this evening. I couldn't wait to see them and the
smiles on their faces!! They were very happy, and I was thankful to be
able to give them these documents. We sat together and drank tea as I
explained in detail about the trip ... how long it would take to get to
the border from here, how long at the crossing terminals on both sides
and what to expect there, and then the final stretch across Israel to
the hospital. We talked about the liklihood that when we arrived the
children would have an exam to see if they needed immediate
hospitalization, or could go on over to the SACH house to rest. They
asked questions and I answered; we talked about everything all of us
had in our minds and hearts.
I was not
surprised to hear
that they were already packed, and probably would not be able to sleep
tonight. Two of the families have waited for this event for years, and
the parents of Lizan have been waiting too even though she is only 11
mos. old.
Visas now in hand!
I
am thanking our compassionate God for all He is doing to reach out to
these precious families! Will you please pray for us as we cross
tomorrow? It will be a long day for them. Pray that little
Lizan
will be able to rest during the van rides -- her parents shared this
evening that she fights sleeping when she is in a car, and cries
instead. I remember how overwhelming this feels to a mother, as my own
daughter was much the same! Pray for the mothers to have peace as we go
through the crossing processes, and that the terminals will not be
crowded so that we may be helped quickly. Would you even pray that it
will not be raining during the times we must be out of doors at each
terminal?
I have one special request as well.
Please pray for
Abu Lizan as he bids his precious wife and daughter goodbye in the
morning, and for Um Lizan and Lizan as they leave him. Even though they
are so happy for this day and this opportunity, it was obvious tonight
that it is very hard for them to be separated.... and understandably
so. Please cover them in prayer during their time apart, hoping that
Lizan will be able to have her surgery soon with a fast recovery. Thank
you for the gift of your prayers. It is a comfort to know you will be
praying for us as we are finally able to go forward for the help
available in Israel. God bless you!
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
email:
 Monday
February 26,
2007
Certainly Very Soon
Filed
by
This evening Dirk (our
Jordan
coordinator) and I went to visit our families who are still waiting in
Amman for their visas. Since Dirk's family was in Germany until only
one week ago, he had not had a chance to meet our guests, and we had a
good visit this evening as they got to know each other. So in this
respect, today was a good day. But all of us had truly hoped that by
today I would be able to pick up the visas at the Israeli embassy and
we would be across the border by tonight. However when I called the
embassy today, I was told there was no news that the security check was
finished, and to call again in the morning. I was so disappointed to
have to tell the families this that I cried....
From left: Riwan,
Lizan, and Ahmad and their mothers
When we
arrived tonight, they were more encouraged than I expected, as they are
now realizing it is certainly very soon that we will go. Please pray
with us that when I call the embassy in the morning, the visas will
have been finalized, and I can pick them up. Then I can make the call
these mothers are waiting to hear: ''I have the visas - we're leaving
today!'' They assured me as we left them tonight that as soon as I
called they would be packing their bags and ready to go. I am hopeful,
as they are, that tomorrow I can report ''Today is the day!''
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this
email:
 Tuesday
February 20,
2007
A Timely Visit
Filed
by
Late
this afternoon I made another visit to the three families who are
waiting here in Amman for their turn to go to Israel for their child's
needed heart surgery. Lizan showed off her first tooth, and the flat
bread she is teething on!
I was very excited to see
them because
I was bringing the good news received this morning that their visas are
now approved on the Israeli side, and I can now go to the Israeli
embassy here to apply for a final security check and then issuance of
the visas of the children and their mothers.
Besides
this, after prayerful consideration about the needs of the families,
the ministry felt we wanted to give some money to each family to help
them with their food costs. Their housing has been supplied these last
two months, and some food provided immediately after they arrived, but
we had not committed to paying for the ongoing costs of food for our
guests as they chose to wait in Jordan. No one knew just how long it
would take for the families to be able to travel, and there were
indications that it was becoming a hardship on them financially after
waiting here for eight weeks.
My friend
(and translator)
Perjin and I arrived full of joy over the news we had to share with our
families. When she began to tell them that I had good news, they said -
only half jokingly - that it was too late, for they had decided last
night to go back to Iraq. They had reached such a point of
discouragement over the length of the stay, and the struggle of not
enough funds, that they just couldn't handle it any more. I am not sure
when they might have put this new plan into action, but there was no
doubt that they were quite sincere in their feelings.
Then
I told them that the visas are approved, that we might be able to
travel by next week, and that we wanted to help them with some money
for food, because we knew it had been hard for them after such a long
time. They were rather taken aback by this gesture, and very
appreciative. It seemed to relieve some of the anxiety they are
feeling, which was evident on their faces, and seemed to be hanging in
the room, to know that this basic need would be met.
I
realized what a timely visit this was. I hoped as we visited for awhile
that this news and financial help would give them peace and patience
until the day comes when I can call them and say ''The embassy has your
visas!" Until then, please pray for them. They feel very far
from
home, and very stressed about the long wait. Please pray that the
administration of the visa process will go supernaturally quickly for
them now. (One potential concern: Lizan and her
mother have
just received a new passport, which has a different number than we put
on the original visa application!) I have an appointment at
the
Israeli embassy tomorrow morning at 9:30.
And
please pray
for me, and the Shevet Achim team, to be equipped with everything
needed to fully care for these precious families whom God has entrusted
to our care.
Notify
me when Lizan's page is updated
at this email:
 MondayFebruary 19, 2007
Parting
from
Lizan
Filed
by
Lizan is a beautiful
10-month-old baby girl whose echodardiogram showed she is one of the
more urgent cases screened by the Israeli doctors in December. She and
her parents have been anxiously waiting in Amman for their turn to
travel to Israel for her heart surgery. It is clear from spending time
with them that they adore their daughter, and are willing to do what is
necessary to get help for her -- a sentiment all of these families
share.
One of the most difficult
decisions for these young parents has been to allow the mother to
travel on with Lizan, joining two other mothers and children, instead
of both parents accompanying their daughter.
  Because
of space limitations at the
SACH (Save A Child's Heart) house
in Israel, it is not going to be possible for both parents to go
together, for it uses a room for one child which is designated for two
children. But they have made this difficult decision, and are waiting
for the word that the visa paperwork is done, and the time has finally
arrived for this precious baby to receive the help she needs.
 Lizan, of course, is
oblivious to these intense decisions. Whenever I've been around her,
everyone in the room, whether young or old, male or female, has enjoyed
having at least a brief turn to cuddle or play with this little one.
She loves music, and is particularly entertained by her daddy's cell
phone with its sounds and lights. The other evening when we were
visiting, her mother shared that since they left Iraq, Lizan has cut
her first tooth. And I've noticed that she is standing firmly and may
soon be trying to learn to walk. What a blessing it will be for her
body to undertake all of the stages of childhood with a healthy
heart!
Please pray
for this young family as they face their first separation from each
other when at last we can travel for Lizan's surgery. Pray for their
continued patience as they wait for all the documentation to be done.
And begin to pray now for a quick recovery for Lizan, so she can return
to her ''Baba,'' and her home.
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me when Lizan's page is updated
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