Adventist Mission

The Future You Hope For

By Bill Colwell, Jr.
Buea, Cameroon

When Michael Dell was asked in 1997 what he would do if he were running Apple Computer, he basically said he'd sell it and give the money back to the shareholders. In 2006 Apple's valuation exceeded that of Dell.

I am still collecting data about the history of the 7th day Adventist Health Centre here in Buea, but what we do find is interesting:

Year          Clients
2004          2231
2005          1843
2006          1789
2007          1220
2008          870 (full time doc left in February)
2009          855 (full time doc arrived in December)

There was discussion at various levels about closing down our health centre. I believe those discussions have been laid to rest given that Trixy and I have been placed here. I believe that one day we will all be able to look back and lift our voices in praise and thanksgiving for what God has done.

In the past it has been said that people would line up the street to be served at our health centre. We were one of two centers in Buea at that time. Today the district itself operates seven health centers and and one hospital. There is Mt Mary, the private Roman Catholic Health Centre/hospital. Other private clinics operate locally as well. The competitive landscape has changed and continues to change. The rumor mill tells us that the three-story building being erected next door by the owner of the Salvation Pharmacy will be an inpatient Hospital.

This is all good news for the people of Buea. Our population has grown so quickly that the number of hospital beds in town have not kept up. This is also very good news for the 7th day Adventist Health Centre-Buea. The competitive nature of health care should raise the standard of care in our community. If simply because we aim to delivery Christ-centered care.

We realize the "glory days of yesterday" are gone. We are here now. Trixy and I, along with our entire team are committed to being God's healing hands in the very real and physical here and now. "I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for" (Jeremiah 29:11).

We are part of an exciting chapter in the history of this Health Centre. Your encouragement, prayers, and financial support demonstrate that you are right here with us.

~Bill

Your mission offerings help support missionaries such as Bill and Trixy. To donate, click here.

More from Bill and Trixy
Meet Bill and Trixy
No Strings Attached
The "Great" Missionary