Austin Stringham and Claire Brian are our two vitamin angels. Austin, through private donations received for his eagle scout project and Claire whose efforts brought us the generous support of the Vitamin Shoppe. Because of them we were delivered over 200 lbs of vitamins. We in America take vitamins for granted. They may make a small difference in the way we feel, but generally our nutrition is so good that it is just a little boost. Some doctors say they are useless. Here that is not the case. The nutrition is so poor that results can be miraculous.
The second day two young teenage boys came in with a muscular atrophy that started at about 12 years of age. The both had gnarled limbs and neither could walk. The younger one could sit up but the older one could barely move. He had not had a bowel movement in months. This was something far beyond our capabilities, but we set in motion a connection with a French NGO who works with muscular issues and evacuates patients to France. Dr. Skankey gave the mother some therapy to move their muscles and try to prevent further atrophy due to lack of movement, but he said what would kill the older boy would be bowel blockage. All we had was to give them vitamins. Two days later we got word that the older one was moving around on his own and had had a bowel movement. This may seem a small thing, but it was a miracle to the family.
Another old man was carried in. He had been lying in bed unable to sit up or eat much for 8 months. We gave him vitamins and have gotten word that he is sitting up and eating just one day later.
I could tell you many more stories, but what I want our vitamin angels to know is that all their efforts, not only made people happy, gave them more energy and a better quality of life, but actually saved lives.
You should be proud.
I am so proud of Austin for teaching his 31 year old Aunt that a few dedicated angels can truly make a difference in the lives of others across the globe. I hope to follow the example Austin has set for me. Thank you for posting these stories and keep up the good work.