God is Good!

November 12, 2025

Dear friends and family,    

 As you know from what goes on in the world and especially in the USA that times are changing and have certainly changed for us. Unable to abide by Ecuador’s laws concerning VISA’s due to the length of time necessary for the first two years, we have been limited to the tourist visa which is 90 days in a rolling year. Thus, I have to keep track of the number of days in the past year as each day passes by.

That being said, our visits have to be short and spaced out. Also, due to family requirements, only one of us can go at a time. This was my trip since much had to be done with the water plant and our foundation there (FBS – Fundacion Buen Samaritano) has new members.

This trip might not amaze you like it does me, but when Elizabeth and I spend even just a little amount of time there, God’s blessings always shine forth even among difficult trials.

Shortly before arriving, there were two attempted robberies of our staff personnel: however, not at the clinic. By the grace of God (a miracle) our custodian Junior survived being shot at close range while riding his motorcycle. Two men on their motorcycle stopped at a stop light next to him. The passenger of that bike held a gun and demanded that Junior give him his bike. Junior froze and then the gun went off. It is assumed that since Junior didn’t fall over dead or injured, the two men took off. Junior then zoomed into a gas station. He checked his clothing and saw that the bullet just missed him – going through his very loose clothes around his waist, into the front and out the back. He said we could share this if we gave all the glory to God.

Another robbery was with Fabricio (one of our water technicians). While walking, a person aimed a gun at his head and demanded his cell phone, the decision to live or die was quickly made – he handed the cell phone over.

The military continues to roam the streets with the police but most of the situations above are very prevalent and spur of the moment, thus the protection is not there.

Then there was our beautiful godchild, Melissa. She had a cardiac catheterization to try to repair a hole in her heart but when they got there the heart surgeon decided that it was too big. Therefore, while I was there, she had open heart surgery. We lent her family one of our adjustable  hospital beds and fan so she could rest in comfort. Here she is looking like nothing had ever taken place. God is good!        

 Then there is the wonderful staff – always making one feel at home. Since Elizabeth and I were coming up on 28 years of involvement in Ecuador, they decided to make a staff lunch for me in honor of us – they will do the same when Elizabeth comes down. Dra.Izkra’s mother made lasagna in individual serving containers. It was not only an honor but also a treat!  They used to do all meals and birthday celebrations in the patient’s waiting room but when it is nice outside, they have been setting up in our patio area in back of the clinic. Great decorations! 

  The job is COMPLETE!

Then there is always the water issues. Equipment repairs and the like. Our external water tanks were failing so I thought it best to replace them before they caused a problem. The tanks are filled with what is called the reject water from the pure water purification system. One has to work inside the tank to help install the necessary water parts. While I connect the outside parts my loyal day guard, pastor Meza, does the hard inside job.

The church next door, the one Elizabeth and I attend, held their first fundraising food festival. They even had flyers printed and distributed throughout Floron and beyond. One of our water technicians wife was featured with the $1 dish (wouldn’t you like to get a $1 dish here?) and drinks cost 50 cents. Individuals from the church made and sold their Ecuadorian specialty and set up their own booths. Tickets were purchased from one location. I would have loved to try all – I only did three. Contact me if you want to know which three.

Diana, wife of one of our water techs is pictured.

Well almost time to go home but the staff had one more thing to accomplish – without my help. (I’d just get in the way anyway)

Christmas is coming! Our clinic entrance.

Pictured is our admin specialist Loly, Dra. Iskra and dentist Dra. Carolina. Junior (not pictured), also helped with the decorations.

Our thanksgiving for your prayers! AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

Please continue to pray for Ecuador and the safety and protection of our staff.

Blessings from Floron, Ecuador

Richard

PS. Loly (the clinic assistant administrator) continues to faithfully try to think up ways to bring in funds for the clinic. She asked if Elizabeth could bring used clothing as we did for the Venezuelans. Elizabeth leaves Nov 30^th. If your closets are ‘overburdened’, please drop off clothing in any good condition - ANYTHING! (Adult, children’s, baby, shoes) Deliver by Nov 28^th to 6070 S Nome St. Englewood 80111.