Josias Update

Dated: 9/29/07

Here is more news about Josias from the Juarez Hospital, Mexico City.

I am glad to tell you that Josias has successfully come through a bronchoscopic procedure undertaken this morning. He was put under a general anesthetic while a bronchoscope was put into his lungs by some of the most important doctors in the hospital. He is now in the recovery room with Pilar and his father where these same physicians will be monitoring his recuperation.

Yesterday, Pilar had a strong conversation with the chief doctor of Josias’ floor, then with the vice-director of the whole hospital and finally with the principal. The three of them were initially in agreement that they did not know what was wrong with Josias but that they would discover more over time. Pilar insisted that Josias should be moved to a more specialized Center for respiratory diseases.

Since the hospital where Josias is at the moment has all the equipment necessary for further examinations they denied this possibility. Pilar threatened to go to higher authorities because it is impossible to accept their denial of their professional duty. The reasons for this problem are that the hospital does not want to lose face by admitting that they can´t do more. It has lots of money and plenty of important doctors but they are too busy with giving grand lectures, teaching students and making a name for themselves. This means that if you are a nobody in this hospital, they let you die.

In contrast, we are reminded of Jesus, who did not fall into the trap of fame as word of his ministry spread and the crowds gathered. Instead, he decided to go to other towns and villages not yet reached, to preach the good news to the poor and welcome all who came to him. What a challenge this is for us at Armonía; to avoid the world pursuit of fame and instead follow in the footsteps of our Lord!

Finally, yesterday the doctors apologized and agreed that more needed to be done. Josias went this morning for the procedure, during which samples of his lung tissue were taken. We pray that this will facilitate some sort of specific diagnosis. They have already told us that they found evidence that when he was younger, he suffered from some sort of pulmonary disease which no-one treated.

Please thank God that all the Armonia communities have been responding to our need for help in looking after Josias for 24 hours a day, every day. Everyone has been praying hard and we invite to you join us in continuing to lift the situation up to God.

We would also like to thank those of you who are trying to help us with the expenses we are experiencing as a result of this. We praise God for your partnership with us.

With love in Christ,
Saul and Pilar Cruz.