Listening with Grace

Our day began with breakfast and a morning reflection from Gillian, which felt especially relevant for what was ahead—our first women’s session on the power of listening.

After breakfast, most of the team stayed behind for some prep work, while Gillian and I headed out to a medical clinic about 25 minutes away. We were joining a Canadian nurse who’s been working here for about five years, on two home visits for baby wellness checks.

The first visit was attended by Gillian. The nurse (C) was checking in on a new mom and her premature baby, who was struggling with nursing. C offered support, weighed and measured the baby, and gave helpful guidance. While Gillian was inside, I stayed back and had the chance to chat with two of the clinic’s staff members. I learned about the many programs they’re involved in, including a family well clinic with three physicians, a baby clinic, and a volunteer initiative called Clean and Green, where community members pick up trash and turn it into art.

I joined C for the second home visit, where we met a lovely family—mom, dad, four young children, and their 8-month-old baby boy who hasn't been thriving. Despite many tests, doctors still haven’t determined why the little one, born at just 4.8 lbs, now only weighs 7.2 lbs. C noted some improvements during the visit but recommended more protein in his diet and neck-strengthening exercises.