Barrett Visit and Balloon Animals



Bob and Elsie (Jon's Parents) have been in Bangladesh for one week now ('tis the season of visitors!).  After quick stops in Dhaka and Cox's Bazar,  they have spent most of their time so far on the hospital compound.  Elsie has been helping some of the ex-pat home school kids and Bob has fixed our property telephone system (PBX) and helped in identifying electrical requirements for existing hospital equipment which will be moved to the new hospital.  He was particularly amazed by the Picker X-ray which had been manufactured in 1955. 

 

Our nephew Kyler, with the help of his sister Brielle, made bracelets and raised money back in Canada to be used here in Bangladesh.  They sent us two big bags of twisting balloons and money to repair a roof on a school hostel (more in an upcoming post).  Today we visited a school in the Hindu fisherman's village near our house to make balloon animals.  The school is free to attend for families who cannot afford to send their children to a governement school (uniform, supplies, testing fees).  The kids welcomed us with two boisterous songs and then enjoyed hearing the story of Jonah and receiving their own balloons.  None had been popped by the time we left and we have lots of balloons left for future use. 

 

Bob and Elsie riding a rickshaw in Dhaka.

 

Watch your step Bob.........best to steer clear of open sewers.

 

Bob reading a panel in the sterlization area.

 

Jon telling the story of Jonah and the Whale with balloon illustration (thanks for translation Shawne!)

 

More kids sneaking in the school to watch (and many were peaking in the windows).

This little guy was looking for help in repairing his dog who was untwisted.

 "Look at my hat!" (boy with the dog balloon)

 

The kids posing for a photo with their balloons. 

 

Walking home (school in left corner of photo).

 

 Steep banks to cross.

 Jon, Elsie and Bob overlooking the Malumghat River.

Holly