Thousands Attend Dedication of the Brian Lemons Memorial Hospital |
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More than 10 years after the idea was conceived, the Brian Lemons Memorial Hospital was dedicated on June 8, 2002. Thousands of people from across Zimbabwe were present. A group of 26 represented the East Point Church of Christ in Wichita, Kansas, York College, Oklahoma Christian University, Harding University, Lubbock Christian College and Wichita State University. The day-long celebration included speeches from Chris Chetsanga, Director of the Southern Africa Development Corporation; Dr. Mibidza, Provential Doctor in charge of Hospital Development for that area of Zimbabwe; Mr. Karamanzera, Governor of the Providence; Chief Munguindi, Chief of the local tribal area, and Brother Makundi, Superintendent of the school at Nhowe mission; and Dr. Stephen Lemons of Andover, KS. Each of these men have been instrumental in the success of the project. An estimated 4,000 people attended the dedication, which included songs, dances, writings and speeches. The theme of the ceremony was thankfulness to God. The ceremony lasted all day. Members of the Churches of Christ from across Zimbabwe attended, as well as many local residents. Those
in attendance were amazed at the spirit of the people who struggle
so very much. Many walked from miles away to attend the ceremony.Much
planning and preparation was necessary by employees of the school
and hospital. The
day began a new era. The people in the area can now obtain previously
unavailable medical care and the hospital has provided employment
opportunities for many residents of the area. Most importantly,
spiritual care is an essential element of the services provided
by the hospital. Work on a storage facility for supplies is in progress. Also under construction are two quad buildings for housing hospital workers. The hospital has hired 15 nurses and other technical personnel including a pharmacist, physical therapist, and x-ray technician. There is not enough housing for these employees and it is hoped the quads can be completed in the next 4 months. There are presently 100 full time employees at the hospital. One doctor is presently on-site and it is anticipated another doctor will be hired in early 2003. A full-time preacher has been hired to serve the spiritual needs of patients and their families, most of whom travel long distances on foot to receive medical care During the week of 21 October, two containers weighing 50,000 pounds each were shipped to the Nhowe Mission. These shipments include surgical lights, sterilizers and another x-ray machine. They also include medicine and bulk food items. Todate in excess of $2.5 million dollars worth of medicine has been sent to the hospital. Over $6 million dollars in medical equipment and supplies have been donated. |
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