Karibu Kenya!
Karibu is the Swahili word for "welcome". Because neither Tim or Kim use social media platforms of any kind regularly, here we are going back in time to start a blog. We wanted a way to keep family and friends informed of our upcoming move to Kenya this August.
This summer we will pack up a years worth of belongings and move to Kenya, about 4 hours northwest of Nairobi. Tim will be serving as a Cardiothoracic Anesthesiologist at the Cardiothoracic Centre at Tenwek Hospital. This adventure is equal parts exciting and a little overwhelming, but we are stepping forward in faith, trusting that God has led us to this place and in this time.
Why Kenya?
For many years, we've felt a growing call to serve in medical missions. We thought this would happen closer to our 'golden years' when the kids were grown. But after much prayer, doing this now WITH the kids became the clear answer. Throughout their childhoods, we are constantly encouraging the kids to be 'helpers and healers' (shoutout to Ms. Meghan and the Secret Forest crew!) and what better way to put those words into action than to embark on an adventure like this.
Tenwek Hospital has a long history of providing compassionate, Christ-centered medical care to those in need and we are all so grateful for the opportunity to be a small part of this vital work. The hospital was founded in the 1930s by missionaries from the World Gospel Mission. It began as a small, one-room dispensary serving the Kipsigis people and has grown into one of Kenya's leading mission hospitals with over 350 beds, providing surgical, medical, maternity, and pediatric care, training, as well as ministering to the spiritual needs of thousands each year. Tenwek trains community nurses, medical and clinical officers (similar to PA's and NP's here in the states), chaplains, as well as Family Practice, General Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery and Cardiothoracic Surgery medical residents. It is truly an amazing place.
The Cardiothoracic Centre at Tenwek Hospital (CTC) is a brand new facility whose journey has been nothing short of miraculous. This new Centre will provide world class medical care and serve as a training hub for African healthcare workers in the prevention and management of heart diseases. The CTC will expand access to preventative, curative, and rehab services - certainly striving to eliminate inequalities in access to healthcare. Because of Tim's specialized training and years of experience in Cardiac Anesthesiology, he will play a crucial role in the treatment of cardiac patients and the training of physicians and staff who will continue this work in Africa long into the future.
To learn a little more about the miraculous journey of cardiac services at Tenwek, check out this quick video, "Hope for Life".
What does this mean for our family?
Beginning in August of this year, we will be adjusting to life in a completely new culture - new foods, new routines, and a much different pace of life (for this Kim is incredibly grateful). Our four kids will be navigating homeschooling with mom and likely part of a co-op of other Missionary Kids (MK's). We will make new friends and learn how to live and serve in a community far from home. While there are plenty of unknowns, we are so excited to see how God works in and through us during this time.
How you can pray for us:
We would love your prayers as we prepare for this transition!
Specifically, please pray for:
- All of Tenwek Hospital's patients and staff and the CTC as they begin to see patients in the new building
- Safe travels for the Essers and a smooth adjustment to life in Kenya
- Strength and wisdom for Tim as he serves the Kenyan people at the hospital
- Peace, resilience, and a spirit of adventure for our kids
- Opportunities to build deep relationships and be a light for Christ!
We will be using this blog to share updates, stories and ways you can continue to pray for and support us. Thank you for walking alongside us on this African journey- we can't wait to see what God has in store! We are already incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement we've received. While we are not asking for donations, some have kindly asked how they can help. If you feel led to contribute, below is a link where you can do so. Most importantly, we appreciate your prayers, well wishes, and support as we take on this journey! Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions.
With love and gratitude,
The Esser Family - Tim, Kim, Sophie, Murphy, Maisy & Sam
"The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'" Matthew 25:40
This is amazing! I can’t wait see how the adventure unfolds, and so happy that you all are spreading your love so widely!
So excited to follow your adventure, and learn new things. Prayers for safe travel, adjustments etc. Enjoy it all! Africa is so lucky to have all of you.
Love
Judy ❤️❤️