YANOMAMI TODDLER BEING TREATED

YANOMAMI TODDLER BEING TREATED

Safira and Ezekiel with their four children.

By Dena McMaster - 2009.04.09

Monday, Ezekiel and Safira, Yanomami believers in Brazil, were able to fly out to the nearest hospital so that their toddler could be treated.

Once again an aircraft provided a lifesaving link between a tribal village and medical help. The missionaries had called the plane to transport the 19-month-old child who was desperately ill with symptoms that had recently claimed the life of another infant.

When the child arrived at the hospital, the doctors immediately began searching for a diagnosis. The doctors now believe that the child may have meningitis and he is in isolation at the hospital while the couple stays near the hospital.

Missionary Brenda Poulson wrote on Monday, "We heard news concerning the child on the radio this morning. Safira is crying constantly so please keep praying for their comfort, patience, and that they would get some rest. It's really difficult for [Yanomamis] to stay in the hospital, as there is usually no way to hang up a hammock and that's the only way they sleep comfortably. Ezekiel may not even be at the hospital so that makes it even more difficult for Safira."

Enoque, Safira's father, who had taken the child to a witchdoctor for a healing ritual before the arrival of the plane, came to see the missionaries asking about the child. "We explained [how the child was] and told him that God is the most powerful One," Brenda wrote, "and He can heal his grandson if He desires.

"Pray that Ezekiel and Safira will continue strong and be testimonies to their families." Pray also that Enoque will see God's power and will trust Him as his Savior.