Where was she going?
 When I was accepted for Interserve’s On Track programme I was informed that there was an opportunity in a country of which I had never heard and which was reviewed by the Lonely Planet as ‘boring by day and dangerous by night’. I was unsure at first, but after some research and prayer, I decided that it was the right place for me. 
Homesick
At times things were hard, particularly missing my family and friends, feeling overwhelmed by the needs there, having to collect rainwater to wash in and eating bland greasy food! There were many good things too, such as beautiful scenery and sunshine, good friendships, a slower and simpler way of life, amazing hospitality from friends and strangers and of course a whole new wardrobe of colourful dresses!
Limited healthcare
The country is the poorest in Central Asia with sixty per cent of people living in poverty. There is no community health system and disabled people have no support. There is also a culture of shame meaning that disabled children are kept hidden away or put in ’internats’ (government institutions) where they receive little stimulation and only very basic care.
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How she fitted in
I worked with an organisation which supports families with disabled children through support groups and providing information and advice. I was involved in training national staff; designing simple equipment and working with a local carpenter to make such equipment. I also visited an ‘internat’ to train the carers and to play with the children.
Making new friends
I found it was relatively easy to make friendships and pray with people but harder to have deep conversations about Jesus. While I was there I was struck by how willing women were to open up their homes and lives to me even though they knew I would only be there a short time. My experiences helped me to refocus Jesus at the centre of my life and truly believe that he is good news for the poor.
Looking back now I feel very blessed that I had the opportunity to go to this small mountainous country, which in my experience turned out to be neither boring nor dangerous (with the exception of a few scary mountain roads).
For information on how you can serve On Track please contact the Personnel Specialists listed below. |
