These photos were taken of pediatric burn patient, Abu Bakarr Kanu, after he returned to Mercy from his school, just a few steps away.  Because Mercy is continuing to monitor his condition, Abu Bakarr sleeps at Mercy, and receives meals there, which is helping him to gain the weight he needs to have in order to be ready for surgery scheduled sometime next year.  Not skin graft surgery, these surgeries will focus on releasing the contracted muscles in his legs, to allow him to walk more normally.
 
Abu Bakarr loves the caring staff at Mercy, but more than that, he loves his school uniform, and being able to attend school with his friends - a lot of whom are kids in the CRC programs.  After school he can be found enjoying a snack and some silliness on the porch of the triage building, with 4 or 5 other boys his age.  His smiles come so easily these days!

At the September 28th Mercy Staff Meeting, several members of the Mercy staff were recognized and presented with certificates for "outstanding performance beyond the normal expectation.  Award recipients are nominated by Heads of Department, Hospital Administrator, HCW Director of Medical Projects, Senior Doctor, and the Matron.

For the month of June, Hosptial Administrator Jinnah Lahai was recognized for his excellent managerial skills, initiatives,and implementation of  team building strategies.

For the month of July, Hassan Sajuma (Lab Technician) was rewarded for having 100% record for responding to emergency cases, particularly during the night.  His support of the Maternity unit during deliveries for blood transfusions and laboratory investigations was also cited.

​Agnes Margao (cashier) received an award for the month of August, for performing efficiently and effectively in two offices.  Agnes acted as both cashier and registrar during the month while the regular Hospital Registrar was on leave, supplying the Finance Officer with all needed financial information during that time.

RN Angela Juana received the award for September.  Posted at the out patient department and the same time tracking pharmacy records, Angela also assisted the junior nurses on the ward; her skills are as good as a Matron.  She is also very outspoken and the most respectful of all nurses on staff.

In August, CARES Radio brought teachers from various schools in Bo to the program to teach on various subjects in an effort to help them prepare students for the re-opening of schools in September.  Mr. Lakoh taught aspects of good governance and participatory democracy, and Mr. Koroma spoke about aspects of business management and financial accounting.

The Mercy Hospital Hour continues to create huge impact in terms of improving health practices.  During the month of August, topics included postpartum recovery, facilities available at Mercy Hospital, and the role of the laboratory in the dispensation of medical services at Mercy.  The Vice Principal of Mattru School for Nursing spoke recently on the subject of how nurses are trained.  The Mercy Hospital Hour also advertises the Mercy Ambulance, which is now more frequently used, due to the awareness raised by this program.  

CARES has now expanded to Kono.  CARE programs recorded in Bo are now being rebroadcast in Kono on Radio New Song Kono on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 3:00 pm.  Listeners in Kono love the program, and call in when it's time for the program to air.  CARES Program Supervisor Amadu Sandy and Producer Emmanuel Koroma are pictured below. 

Fudia Ernest has been the caretaker of the Missionary Training Centre (MTC) since opening 10 years ago.  Fudia attended school in Freetown, graduating from senior secondary school before going to vocational school to learn catering.  Her Christianity and her family are her highest priorities.  She is the proud mother of two beautiful girls, Augusta (23) and Mary (21).  The MTC turns 10 on the 28th of December.

How long have you worked at the MTC: “I will soon be 10 years at the MTC."

How did you hear about the MTC: “I went through an interview after hearing an advertisement. I helped with the building of the MTC, organizing, and furnishing.”

What do you like most about working at the MTC?: “The most important part of working at MTC is serving God by helping people. That is my best pleasure for working here. It is for humanity, love, and serving another that I work here.”

What are you proud of?: “I helped fix the rooms, dining area, peace hut, and hire staff. So many things I have contributed to getting done.”

Anything else you want people to know?: “Just tell people I love everyone. Love is the key to every success.”