DesanaGiving

Greetings from snowy Russia!

It has been a very harsh winter, the coldest in many decades. Thank God, it is almost over and we were able to survive it – thanks to our many wonderful helpers from all over the world.

You have read about the great miracle in Valya’s life – her apartment has been completely remodeled, and both mom and daughter would be in heaven but for one serious complication. The tumor in Valya’s thigh has turned out to be cancerous and some doctors are saying that the only solution will be complete leg amputation. We are taking her to get a second opinion though. Will keep you posted. It is hard to imagine how she could possibly survive in the village with no running water or indoor bathroom with one leg and a baby. We are praying for mercy. And we have already seen God’s grace in the number of new volunteers that have stepped in to help. I received an unexpected check from my friends in California for groceries and some medical expenses for Valya. Another friend’s mom has been investing a lot of time and energy in helping Valya – it is incredible how doctors’ attitude changes when they see someone waiting for you outside the office.

Another orphanage graduate, Irina, had a surgery and was worried about her 4-month-old baby while she stayed at the hospital. It took a lot of comforting on our part to raise her spirits and a lot of fruit and juices to improve her health.  

We are so thankful to have the Graduate fund to be able to help with the basics. And I continue to be thankful for those children who were pulled out of the orphanage system by new parents. My friend Ruth from TX has an 18-year-old adopted daughter that luckily will never become a recipient of the graduate money. This winter I have also met another wonderful lady through Desana. Years ago Micka from Sweden adopted a girl from a baby home in Nizhny Tagil. The girl has grown into a beautiful young woman, and, just like Ruth and many other adoptive parents I know, the mom encourages her to appreciate her Russian heritage.