Sometimes it amazes me how time just simply flies by. It has been 2 weeks since my last blog entry! And, for once my absence in the blog-o-sphere isn't because things are mundane and life is just ticking along but because things have just been so crazy and wonderful and overwhelming. And oh, have prayers been answered.
Many of you who have traveled this time of discernment and fundraising with me know my biggest angst was leaving the practice I love and our patients. I have spent many hours in prayer, questioning God whether moving to the DR was truly where he wanted me. After all, I am in a job I love and in a position where I am helping people. But, with each prayer Christ made it abundantly clear that his desire for me is to be a medical missionary in the Dominican Republic.
Ok, so then my prayer changed. I prayed for my patients and practice after I left. And, I never could have imagined what happened next. This past week my employers were gracious enough to take me out to dinner as a goodbye and a celebration. I brought with me my fundraising photo album filled with my story. That dinner lasted for 3 hours and was filled with laughter and joy. At the end they handed me the most beautiful card, that left me in tears. My doctor, who has taught me everything I know, who I respect immensely and who is single handedly being affected the most by my departure GOT IT! And supported me. I left that night filled with God's provision and love. A direct answer to prayer, in a greater way then I could ever have dreamt.
The following morning was tumor board, a multi-disciplinary cancer conference we attend with other medical oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, radiation oncologists and pathologists. My doctor stood up during the conference and presented my resignation and departure in the most beautiful words and with a true humanitarians heart. He challenged all the doctors and medical community in that room to stand behind me and support my cause. To donate any equipment, medical supplies, money or resources. And how they embraced what he was saying. At the end I found myself surrounded by my colleagues asking if they could volunteer their time. Imagine! A team of surgeons coming to the remote villages I will be serving???!!! Afterwards, we went to the President of the hospital's office and the PR department. They encouraged me to write an article for the hospital and Physician's monthly newsletter.
Friends, this is getting so much larger than my pea-brain little head ever could have imagined. Blessings and provisions are pouring out.
As if that wasn't enough, I was placed back in touch with a huge childhood church mentor. The DR has been on her heart for the last couple years (unbeknownst to myself) and when she hear about my ministry, she committed to the last bit of monthly support I needed. That's right. I have reached my monthly goal. It is truly happening! Dios es bueno!!
We are so blessed to serve a mighty God, filled with love and provision. I am proof of that. I am privileged to have a front row seat to his miracles. I thank each and every one of you for the huge part you are playing in this crazy journey! Xo
