It’s been a bittersweet day saying bye to my African family and friends. All throughout the day I felt so much love from so many who came by for a visit before we leave out in the morning headed back to the states. Although I felt much love, I was a bit sad knowing it will be a couple of months before I get back to see them. The hardest one of all as you can imagine was Jimmy, it is like leaving one of my children behind. I sure love that boy and am most blessed to have him in my life.

Okay, I’ve had to write about Malaria so many times lately that I don’t really know much more to say, other than I am sick again. Yesterday the fever came back and this morning I went back to the hospital for more tests. The outcome has given me some insight to why I might not have been getting well. Today the doctor tested me again and the results were negative. He said he knew because of the continuing symptoms that I had Malaria, then he thought to ask me a great question. He asked if I had taken anything for the fever before I was tested and I told him yes. He then told me that it is possible for the test to be altered when other medications are being taken. Now it seems we have some answers. I have taken something for the headache or fever many times before I was tested.

Today I began injections that will last for the next 5 days. The doctor assured me today that these injections will heal me, please pray for this. Last night and this morning I was the most discouraged I have been over the situation since I first contracted it in June.

Dr Brenda, Mike and Sarah and George and I will all be leaving out first thing in the morning. We arrive in Atlanta Thursday mid afternoon. Please be praying for our safety as we journey home, and pray specifically for me to endure the trip well as I am still running a fever and experiencing headaches. Also, pray for my sweet Jimmy.

This is my first trip home under normal circumstances, I am so excited! Can’t wait to get my arms around my children and my grandchildren! How blessed I am to be home over the holidays when our family is together more than any other time of the year. And to come home in the fall of the year….can’t wait to step out the door at the Atlanta airport and feel the coolness in the air!

As always I am so thankful for all your prayers and support. Today my Pastor friends came from Kenya and we started planning my teaching time when I get back the first of January. I am very excited to have the opportunity to serve in Kenya for several weeks as the National elections take place here in Uganda. Sure love all of you lots and look forward to hearing from you when I get back home in a couple of days.

Joy Breedlove

Missionary-East Africa