Tutova, Barlad, and Beyond (2008-2011)

Recent Alina Pictures

2011-10-29T16:38:00.000-07:00

Familiar Faces!

2011-07-07T21:09:00.000-07:00

Carmen is back in the hospital from the CPS Center. Her seizures are still uncontrolled :(

Remember these princesses? Twins: Gabriela and Mihaela. Both girls were brought back to the hospital by their family, and will hopefully now be going into foster care together! It sounds like life at home was quite difficult, and I hope these girls get into a loving/stable home soon!

And recognize this sweet face? Go back to my 2008 posts to learn more about Ana Maria. She has been living at the CPS Center for a few years, and it was finally her time to come to the hospital for evaluations. Coca used to be her personal aide, so was very happy to see her!

Foster Care for Paula!

2011-07-07T21:07:00.001-07:00

I have heard from a current volunteer that Paula has gone into foster care! Apparently last week a couple women visited her, and then this week one of them came back to take her home! Hopefully this will work out for Paula!

Udpate: Delia and Denisa

2011-07-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

Babies Delia (no arms or legs) and Denisa (bilateral cleft) are now living at the center for children with disabilities run by CPS. Hopefully they will be able to come back to the hospital to spend time with the volunteers again soon!

Here He Comes!

2011-06-16T13:04:00.000-07:00

Raul's humanitarian parole has been granted! I will be going to get my boy soon!
Please help fundraise for Raul's plane ticket to the U.S. for much needed medical care:
http://www.giveforward.com/raulsplanetickettotheus

Updates

2011-06-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

Gone Home:

Cristi Daniel (4.5 years in Tutova/Barlad)

Nicoletta (1.5 years in Tutova/Barlad)

New/Returned:

Sammy, age 6, in Barlad from the CPS center for evaluations, previously in Tutova for 4-5 years

Nadia, age 15, back in the hospital from the CPS center

Cleo, age 2, back in Barlad from post-surgical appointment in Iasi

Ion, age 3, back in Barlad hospital from the CPS center (likely having another surgery soon)

Luka, age 11 months, new in the hospital with GI issues

Raul

2011-05-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

For those who don't know his story, Raul has Epidermolysis Bullosa. He is 19 months old right now, and has lived his whole life in hospital isolation. Due to financial hardship, the hospitals are not able to purchase the supplies he needs, and so they isolate him to try to help prevent infection. Knowledge about EB is not common in the area where Raul lives, and they have been very open to learning. Children with EB are often called "butterfly babies" as their skin is as fragile as butterfly wings; they get blisters and wounds from pressure and friction. These blisters can occur on any membrane (skin, eyes, GI tract, etc.). Raul is currently refusing to eat more than one bottle per day, likely because of the extreme pain he is in. We give him infrequent Advil, but his pain is much greater than that can alleviate.

Despite how much the staff may care about him and want to help, the tests and treatments that he needs are not available to him in Romania, and that is why we began pursuing an international medical visa almost one year ago. It took an entire year to get everything straightened out with both the Romanian and American hospitals, and to help his parents to understand his condition and what is available to him abroad. We thought we had everything figured out, but after two ten hour round-trip visits to Bucharest this week, Raul has been denied a medical visa. The reasons they gave being, 1: they did not believe we would bring him back despite signed legal documents, and 2: the parents do not qualify for visas to the U.S., and somehow that means Raul does not either even though they will not be traveling with him.

We were advised to try to get him humanitarian parole, and are also getting U.S. senators involved. Please spread the word about Raul's story, as we need all the help we can get to get Raul what he needs. Raul's story and his chance for international medical care was made public in Romanian media before the visa was denied, and for them to have to do a retraction will not look good for the U.S.! The one thing that reassures me is that he has Coca (an aide from Tutova, who is now helping in Barlad) to love him and take care of him until we can bring him here.

Final Days

2011-05-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

Denisa

Delia

Marinela (finally awake!)

Maria (she only stayed for one day)

Catalin

Marian has the most beautiful eyes

Matei

Ana

Ionut rocking a hooded suit

Cristi is obsessed with this stool

Alina and her grandma

Carmen

Girls and Their Bows

2011-05-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

More Georgie

2011-05-15T08:32:00.000-07:00

Georgie is such a character! We think he should have a career in films or TV! An yes, he can do cartwheels while wearing sunglasses!

Day #69

2011-05-10T07:42:00.001-07:00

Mom and baby on floor three

With Carmen

Marian (new today; age 5 with CP)

Mattei (new today, CP)

Nadia

Staff, Mom, and Me

Carole, mom, aide

Maiastra the bunny

Georgie

2011-05-10T07:35:00.000-07:00

Georgie is from the center for children with disabilities, and arrived at the hospital today. He knows Maiastra, as they live in the same house. He is funny, and very bright. This morning we did imaginary play and pretended to be horses and airplanes. He talks in full Romanian sentences, and is very sweet. He really liked posing for pictures, and also taking pictures himself. When I told him I had to leave he said "okay" and gave me two thumbs up!

Safe and Sound

2011-05-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

Cleo is back safe from Iasi. The surgery was completed. She seems the same as before, but is definitely craving attention after her time away. They put her in isolation to keep her surgical wounds from getting infected, but we are all able to visit her. I got a bunch of smiles out of her!

Why is Raul Smiling?

2011-05-06T11:59:00.001-07:00

Because on Monday he will have his visa interview!

Big Kids

2011-05-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

Cristi playing his piano

Ionut sleeping

Paula

Marius

Ionut

Carmen

Ion and Alina

2011-05-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

Two sweet little monsters. These two rule the hallways of floor three. Ion is almost always eating, and is delighted at the site of any food. He also likes riding in the stroller down the hall, and climbing every possible surface. There is nowhere Ion can be contained, which has proved to be a problem. Alina can only be contained in the cribs from Tutova, she can get out of the other cribs, the playpen, and everything else. She is talking a lot more now, and greets other patients as she struts down the halls. She now has a fan club of teenage patients who had her dancing to MTV with them today.

Watching TV (finally calm)

My mom with Alina

The aides dressed the kids up this morning

Ion loved these sunglasses

AND the panda purse (yes that is cookie in his mouth)

Alina with her tutu and purse

Babies

2011-05-06T11:29:00.000-07:00

Baby Adrian (Harry) went home today, though it appears there may be a couple new ones on the floor without parents staying with them. Delia, Denisa, Marinela, and Ionut are all doing well downstairs; and Ana upstairs! Marinela will go home when she is bigger, but for now the mom will visit every few days, as she needs to be home to take care of four other small children.

Ana sleeping with Lambchop

Ionut

Marinela

Ana Maria

The Many Faces of Maiastra

2011-05-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

She likes having her hair done

and LOVES the "itsy bitsy spider" song

She laughs at the song every time

She is full of style

and is rarely seen without some accessories...

...or a pink ring

Welcome Back

2011-05-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Nadia and Nicoletta are back, unfortunately both in worse condition. Nadia came back from the center yesterday in very poor condition. She has been getting IV treatment, but her level of consciousness is very poor, and she has been moaning a lot. Today she seemed slightly better than yesterday, though. Nicoletta came back today from Cluj with her mom. Her health is very poor right now (maybe pneumonia?), so she did not have any surgeries in Cluj. Her other condition they are now calling precocious puberty, though there may be more to it, we don't know. She slept most of the day, and was understandably very fussy. The mom is in the hospital, but Nico still spends a lot of the day with us.

My Babies

2011-05-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

Raul

Reading his books

Alina with her jewels

Jewels and shiny shoes

Maiastra is Back!

2011-05-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

They're Baaack (again)

2011-05-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

Not kidding, it happened again. Supposedly they are sick this time, and they all DO have IVs. Not sure if it is more permanent this time, or if it is just while they are sick, but I guess we will see!

Alina

Ion

Marius

Ionut

Bonus Pictures:

Paula

Ana Maria

Carmen

2011-05-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

Carmen arrived today from the CPS Center. She is seven years old. She has epilepsy, brain damage, and poor vision (the IV is for a cold I believe). She is so sweet, and all she wants is to be held and loved. She spent a lot of the afternoon cuddling against me and then sleeping on my lap. When we aren't there she sits strapped into a soft chair in the playroom.

Babies

2011-05-02T10:11:00.001-07:00

Delia

Denisa, Adrian, and Delia

Denisa

Adrian

Marinela Crina

Ionut

Tiny Twin Departure

2011-04-29T10:34:00.000-07:00

Having a private goodbye conversation. They also sucked on each others' fingers.

Departure outfits. These outfits also came with double layer fleece hats and jackets (also with vests); the bows were my touch. Then to leave they added two bed sized blankets each to swaddle them, then tied each with a ribbon.

Days #56 and #57

2011-04-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my second birthday in a row that I have celebrated here in Romania. Different, of course, from Tutova, but we had a nice day. After lunch we celebrated and had cake with the aides/nurses on the third floor, then took the rest of the cake to the first floor for the staff there. They all enjoyed the treat, and were wishing me a happy birthday from the first time I saw them in the morning. Unfortunately I have a cold, so I skipped going out to dinner with part of the team and a few local friends, but did get to spend the full day at the hospital.

The only big news I can remember from yesterday is that the tiny twins, Gabriela and Ana Maria, went into foster care. Their birth sister, a teenager, came and helped bathe them and dress them in cute matching outfits from their family. The girls will be placed in separate foster homes, but the plan is for them to go back to their birth family after one year. After they left, Adrian (who we call Harry) and Denisa moved in with Delia.

Adrian's last name is one that sounds very British, so we thought the name Harry was more fitting for him (not to mention his exceptionally hairy head!). Today we were introduced to another new little baby, Ionut, who is about one week old. He has been there a couple days already, but we weren't sure if he had someone with him or not, so we hadn't visited him. Now we know he is alone, but he is not allowed in with our other babies as he may have some sort of pink eye or something (they are running tests, though his eyes look normal to us).

This morning Cristi's parents came to visit, and stayed for multiple hours, including a visit to a doctor at another hospital. They say they are building a room for Cristi at their home, but we will see what happens! They seemed nice, and Cristi was happy playing with them. Supposedly CPS is evaluating their situation, as well as Paula's family, to see if they can go home. Paula also went to visit the other doctor, we think an endocrinologist, and two aides went with her.

Ana Maria will continue to stay at the hospital for now as she is quite sick (on IV antibiotics), and is apparently in need of heart surgery. She did enjoy watching part of the wedding today though! Ana and Nicoletta are cousins we found out, and both have heart problems. We heard today that Nicoletta is actually having heart surgery in Cluj, despite other rumors we had heard. No word on Cleo or if she has had surgery yet.

Raul's parents also visited today to visit with us and ask any questions they might have about Raul and his medical visa. They both had some really good questions, mostly about his medical and developmental situation, and seemed to truly care about him. Both got teary when they could see he was in pain after his bottle, and when he got upset when they held him. The dad very sadly asked if he would ever get to know them, and if he would ever be any better off. He was happy, though, to hear that there are many kids with EB around the world living productive lives. Sadly I don't think anyone had ever even tried to explain the condition to them before. They were happy to hear about how smart he is, and said all their children are quite smart. The dad laughed watching how well he manipulates his toys, and thought it was funny how he kicks his mobile to tilt it.

We have heard we may be having our hospital rooms moved by Monday to one of the ends of the hall, and that there may be some other changes. This could include the return of all, or some, of our CPS kids, but only time will tell...

Day #55

2011-04-27T09:36:00.000-07:00

Gabriela after a diaper change

Delia

Ana

Adrian

Friends

Denisa

Raul

Gabriela

Day #54

2011-04-26T21:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was another day of turmoil for us here in Romania. Ion, Marius, and Alina were outside with a few volunteers when a bus showed up unexpectedly to take them, and Ionut and Nadia, back to the CPS Center. They had only been at the hospital for seven days. I won't go into the details, but this was a move made by one person, and one person only, that was not approved by other important people. Off our brave little ones went to go through a transition once again.

Nicoletta's mom spent the day at the hospital waiting to take Nicoletta to Cluj for more endocrine testing. They will be taking an eleven hour ambulance ride from Barlad today (Wednesday). The mom seemed a little overwhelmed, and she was happy to have our help with Nico during the day. No word on Cleo from Iasi yet.

My mom and I spent the afternoon on the first floor, as there were only three kids upstairs. We had all the infants, and Raul in a room together. We let Raul roll around on one of the beds, and he was so happy. We would take the preemies and lie them in front of them, and he thought they were just hilarious. He was laughing very loudly, and squealing, and having a great time. When the bottles came we fed the preemies first thinking that Raul wouldn't eat (he hasn't eaten much at this hospital), but he fussed the whole time, and was kicking us. When I got to him, he sucked down the whole bottle!! The doctor also talked to my mom about his medical visa and asked how soon we were taking him! She is very much in approval of his medical visa, which is great!

Adrian Florin

2011-04-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

New baby today named Adrian Florin. He was born April 8th, so is only about two weeks old. I don't know much about his story, but he has a soft, fluid filled feeling, lump on the back/side of his head. He has a very full head of hair, and is awake and alert much of the time.

Day #53

2011-04-25T11:06:00.000-07:00

Saturday brought the arrival of my mom, and the start of the Easter celebrations here in Romania. Unfortunately we were both exhausted, my mom wasn't able to sleep on the flights, so we had to skip the evening at Mihaela's house. We heard from the others though that they had delicious food, cracked Easter eggs, and walked up to the cemetery with candles from the church with all the locals. We had dinner at the hotel, then slept for fifteen hours! Sunday, after sleeping in, we rested in the hotel, then decided to go out to dinner as there was a party at the hotel. We had pizza at the Alona, and as we were eating David and Pat arrived for pizza as well. The party was for a christening, and it lasted until about four in the morning! Luckily we are on the third floor this time, but it was still quite loud.

This morning at the hospital we brought all the kids in the playroom so the aides could air out their bedrooms. Slowly the kids were let back in their rooms, and we were left with Alina, Cristi, and sometimes Paula in the playroom. The only other patients on the floor Sunday night were four (young) teenagers who had passed out drunk. We decided that Paula'screaming all day might have taught them a lesson! David spent the morning outside with Ion, so things were more peaceful inside. After lunch we all went out to enjoy the nice weather. I brought out Raul, as he was awake. There was a new nurse on his floor, so I don't think she knew who I was, but she let me take him outside, she just told me to "bring him back" haha. We sat outside while everyone else went to a local shop/stand to buy water, then it was time to go back to our kids.

Some of the kids took long naps, so things were slow at first. Then after they ate, Mihaela, my mom and I took Ion, Alina, and Marius outside. We stayed out most of the afternoon playing and walking around, which was tiring, but was nice to get the fresh air! When we went back upstairs we found Nicoletta's mom waiting! She claims to be taking her to Cluj for medical care by way of ambulance to Bucharest, then helicopter?? We aren't sure about that part, but the mom is definitely taking her somewhere, as she had a bag packed and was spending the night at the hospital. I guess we will find out tomorrow!

Paste Fericit/Happy Easter!

2011-04-23T01:00:00.000-07:00

Day #49

2011-04-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

Poor Delia has a sore on her right "arm", which was causing her a lot of pain today

Denisa and Ana

Gabriela, Denisa, and Ana Maria

Gabriela

Denisa

Ana Maria

Miruna came in to play with us today as we have good toys (including sensory toys), and it gave her foster mom a little break

Raul in his new walker from Pat (without the wheels on)

"Return" of Petre

2011-04-21T10:24:00.000-07:00

Today as I was walking down the hall I saw a little boy that I thought I recognized waiting outside the doctor's office. I bent down to say hello, and it was Petre! I asked the woman with him for confirmation, and she said it was him. He didn't look like himself as he was just so sad at first, but luckily he perked up seeing his friends and getting some food. He and Ion were so happy to see each other, and gave each other big kisses! Petre is currently at the emergency placement CPS center in Barlad, and hopefully will get a foster family soon. Things didn't work out at home, but it is not clear if he was taken from the parents, or if they gave him up. Petre has been through a lot in the past couple weeks, and we are so hoping that he will end up in an amazing foster family!

Outside Time

2011-04-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Day #48 Toddlers

2011-04-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

My baby girl

Paula loves these new chairs

Alina

Ionut with his curly hairdo

Sleepy Alina

Ion sleeping

Marius

Ionut with tigger

Ionut actually put his arm around tigger

Paula

Princess Alina

Day #48 Babies

2011-04-20T08:20:00.001-07:00

Delia

Ana Maria

Raul

Ana

Gabriela

Gabriela and Ana

Ana

Nico and Ana

Third Floor

2011-04-19T12:05:00.001-07:00

Alina

Nadia

Sabina

Ionut

Paula

Ion

Ana Maria

Nicoletta

Welcome Back

2011-04-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

Miruna (Tutova, 2008) is in the hospital currently with her foster mother (not the girl holding her, that is another patient). She is beautiful, but unfortunately is having some neurological problems. She is now four, but cannot walk (partly orthopedic), doesn't talk, and isn't potty trained. It was very exciting to see her (I actually recognized her and asked her mom), and her foster mom seemed great, though a bit overwhelmed right now.

Maria Alexandra is back in the hospital for another cold with her mom AND her sister this time. Both girls are patients for colds. Their home conditions are not great, so we believe we will be seeing a lot of them with their mom in the hospital. I don't blame the mom for wanting a safe/comfortable place to sleep with food, heat, etc.!

Denisa has curls now!

Daria is now in Barlad Hospital awaiting her surgery in Iasi. She could not stay in Iasi as when she arrived the hospital had a chickenpox outbreak, so she went home, but now that she has a cold she is back in the hospital in Barlad. It was nice to see her, and she was her same bouncy self!

First Floor

2011-04-19T11:50:00.000-07:00

Raul's mom visited for a couple minutes today. He is still not really eating, but is happy to be held again.

Gabriela and Ana Maria

Gabriela

Ana and Gabriela

Bow party

Sharing the bouncer

Twins!

2011-04-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

Gabriela and Ana Maria were born on March 26th, so they are just three weeks old. They were either premature, or just low birth weight, as they are quite small! The girls' parents have six other children, and they have given up these twins to CPS. The doctor is hopeful that they will get into foster care as soon as the end of this week. Gabriela is smaller, and is almost always sleeping, while Ana is awake a bit more. Both have blue/gray eyes, that are beautiful, though both girls are a bit jaundiced. Today I held them both together all morning, and it was great!

Gabriela

Ana Maria

Gabriela

Ana awake!

Ana likes her pacifier

Gabriela

Ana Maria

Ana and Gabi

Ana-Maria

Gabriela

Preemies

2011-04-18T09:46:00.001-07:00

Nadia

2011-04-18T09:41:00.000-07:00

Nadia is an older girl who we have been working with at the hospital. She is 15, and in CPS custody. She has severe cerebral palsy, as well as seizures, but cognitively she seems to understand pretty well. She follows us with her eyes, and she will let us know with sound when she wants attention. She likes having her face and head rubbed, but not her body, as she is quite skinny. More pictures of Nadia are available to those who would like to see them, but I did not want to post them publicly.

Delia Ayana

2011-04-18T09:34:00.000-07:00

Delia Ayana is approximately 3 weeks old. She was born in another city, but brought to Barlad last Friday. Delia was born without arms and legs (she has one stump arm, a finger on the other side, one small leg, and a foot on the other side). She has been given up to CPS custody by her parents. Delia was featured on the news when she was born, as she was supposed to come to Tutova, but since she could not, she has not joined us in Barlad! She is completely healthy, her only problem is her limbs.

Denisa

2011-04-18T08:24:00.000-07:00

Baby Denisa arrived at the hospital a few days ago. Her birthday is March 5th. She is still in her parents' custody, but will remain in hospitals and CPS care until all her cleft surgeries are finished. She is tiny, but very alert and sweet.

The Regulars

2011-04-18T08:15:00.000-07:00

Ana Maria

Cristi

Raul

Nicoletta

The Boys Are Back in Town

2011-04-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

Marius

Ionut

Ion sleeping on a patient, Raluca's, legs

She's BAAACK!

2011-04-18T08:07:00.000-07:00

Blowing kisses to her subjects

Swinging on the crib

"If I opened any wider you could see my tonsils!"

The clothes she came back in

New Team

2011-04-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day with the new team. We did the normal orientation, and also walked to a church to see their Palm Sunday celebration. Then in the afternoon we got to visit the hospital for a quick tour, and say hi to the kids. We were happy to see that Ana Maria and Nicoletta returned back over the weekend, and are interested to hear about their test results tomorrow. We also heard that Cleo WILL in fact be having her surgery tomorrow in Iasi. We hope for the best for her!

This week some of our kids from the CPS facility will be coming for a hospital stay, and we are very excited to see them! Celine is also coming back from Bucharest soon, and will also have a stay in the hospital with us. It's great to have some of our kids reuniting, even if it has to be in a hospital!

Last Friday we got a new baby named Delia Ayana, who had been on the news a couple weeks ago when she was born. She was supposed to go to Tutova, but obviously that couldn't happen. She can't be more than three weeks old, as she still has an umbilical stump. Cognitively she seems normal. She has a bit of a stump for a left arm, but on the right coming out from her body she only has a finger (a very cute finger!). She has one leg that is small, and on the other side she just has a foot attached to her body. She also has a little hemangioma on her nose. She is a sweet little girl, and we are happy to be taking care of her!

Today she was in a room with two more little princesses named Gabriela and Ana Maria. They are twins, born March 26th, and are very tiny. Their family has six other children besides them, so they have left the girls in the hospital until they get bigger. We will be helping with them as well. Unfortunately, her move means that Raul is now alone in his room again, though that will make him happy, because he didn't like having to share his mama!

Upstairs we also have a new girl from the CPS facility who is 15, named Nadia. She has severe CP, and is quite malnourished. But she can see and hear, and she follows us with her eyes. And she lets us know when she wants attention by making noises. She is very sweet, and we are lucky to get to work with her!

Day #42

2011-04-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

Day #41 Photos

2011-04-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

Cleo left for Iasi today to see a neurosurgeon. By the time we arrived at the hospital, the doctor from Iasi had already called the head nurse on the floor and told her that Cleo now qualifies for a new type of shunt made in Germany. We are not sure what benefits, if any, it might have, but hopefully it could help the pressure in her head a bit. Her parents will have to sign their permission for the surgery, so we will see what happens.

Ana Maria and Nico have not returned from Iasi yet either. They told us they were only going for a day, but somehow we knew better. Nicoletta's dad called the hospital this morning to ask how soon he could come to get his daughter. We are not sure how their home situation is, but we are excited that Nicoletta has this chance! We have very few or our Tutova babies with us in the hospital right now, but that has given us a chance to get to know some others as well. This morning one of the Ionuts sat on my lap and I read him all the books we had (in English). He is a CPS kid, and definitely needs some extra love. Apparently it was a pretty funny scene, as he is 10-12 years old, and quite tall!

The other Ionut, we found out, was a Tutova baby! He left about five years ago, and has been in three foster families since. No wonder he is so gentle with our babies, and that he knew where my pictures were taken! He was quite happy to see Mihaela! I spent a good part of the morning in the playroom with some moms and kids. Eventually I brought the toy piano in, and the kids had a great time playing around with it, and the moms thought the songs on it were hilarious. They were very welcoming, and really wanted to talk to me; I wish I spoke more Romanian! They take great care of their special needs children. The kids are adorable of course. I had nine year old Gheorgi, eight year old Ionut, older Ionut, five year old Petre, five year old Stefan, three year old Andrei, and a teenage girl.

Unfortunately we have to put the toys away whenever we go, but the kids were very understanding, and I promised I would bring it back after lunch. This morning a new 1.5 year old baby girl with hydrocephalus arrived with her mother. They are in the urgent care room on the floor, but the nurse took us to see the baby. She is beautiful, and reminds me of one of my babies from China. We gave the mom a few diapers, a bannana and yogurt for the baby, and a soft doll for the baby, and she was very happy. Later in the afternoon she hung out in the room across the hall where I was playing with some kids and talking to a few moms.

In that room I had Petre and Stefan again, as well as a boy about 12 who was alone, and a teenage boy who was alone. We played with the piano once again. The kids also love posing for pictures (with their parents' permission), though unfortunately I can't post those here. The teenage boy, and Stefan's mom both spoke some English, so we had fun. The two older boys were writing me notes, and told me I was pretty, then asked if I liked them haha. I told them I was too old! They asked some other funny questions too, and one of the boys kept patting me on the head. They were being goofy, and little Stefan is just too cute for words, so the afternoon went quickly. The moms asked me if I'd be back tomorrow, and I said tomorrow and Friday, so they got excited! I am thinking of having a little party in the playroom in the afternoon on Friday, as I have balloons with me!

After having lunch brought from the hotel (sandwiches and pizza) the past two days, we decided today to go out to the Italian restaurant! It was a nice change, and a great break in the middle of the day. Not to mention they have a great bathroom (the squattie potties in the hospital are not our favorite). Tomorrow we have been invited to eat the hospital lunch, which is supposedly very good. We will see!

Bud, from GV, arrived today to meet with all the possible new volunteer sites, and see possible hotels over the next two days. It is a little funny not knowing what I will be doing next week, but I am excited about the possiblities!

Paula

Cristi

Raul

Baby picture of Raul that hangs in his room

Raul

Day #40

2011-04-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

Nico and Ana Maria were at the hospital in Iasi today for genetic and hormonal testing, so we were much less busy. Raul is on a separate floor, but he is not really wanting to be held or anything right now, so I don't spend as much time down there as I had planned. That means upstairs we only had three kids today: Cristi, Paula, and Cleo. We also get a steady stream of other patients coming into our room since we have all the toys! Especially two boys who are in CPS care, Ionut x2, who need a little extra love. One is probably 10-12, and the other is 8. They also have a friend who is there with his mom who is 9. Occasionally little ones wander in, but their parents usually take them back. We saw them all in the lunchroom today, which was cute.

Paula has been doing great in the hospital! One meltdown yesterday, and NONE today! She loves the older boys, no matter how wild they are, and will tolerate almost anything from them. The kids all know her name, and the staff seem to like her too. The staff are very caring in general, and visit our kids even when we are there. Cristi had a good morning, including some time with a physical therapist even! Then he slept all afternoon, so unfortunately he missed the toys (they stay in the nurses room when we aren't there, as do our diapers and wipes). Cleo slept all morning, and we were a bit worried about her, but then this afternoon she was more active than ever! She was moving her face, arms, legs, and even her torso, all the while smiling. The staff are great with repositioning her, and we hope they will continue to spend time with her once we leave.

The floor's head doctor, and the head nurse both speak English, and are very nice and helpful. Dr. Eva explains to us the types of patients they get, the cultural role in their care, prevention, and many other things. She is a wonderful doctor, and our kids are lucky to have her looking out for them! This afternoon she introduced us to a Romanian volunteer who is in school for a further degree in psychology. He spoke English as well, and talked to us about some of the kids. He helps them out with the children, and also with the families.

As were leaving after lunch, we saw Maria Alexandra with her mother. Actually, her mother spotted me and ran over smiling and handed me the baby before I could place who she was! At first I thought she was one of the mothers from Raul's floor. Later I made a quick visit down to them on the second floor, and the mom was very happy to see me again. She also liked showing off her American friend to their roommates haha. Sounds like she is here with a cold. While we were sorry to see that she was at the hospital so soon after leaving the clinic, at least her mother knew she needed care.

After lunch we made a short visit to the Center for Children with Disabilities, which is more of a center for PEOPLE with disabilities, as most are not young children, and two houses have adults over 18. It is north of the Children's Hospital at the edge of town. They have amazing rooms for physical therapy, play therapy, "learning" therapy, hydrotherapy, art therapy, and group therapy. The rooms seemed very well equipped. In the morning they work with residents, and in the afternoons they work with Barlad families who have special needs children. We actually saw Ioanna (who left the clinic right before I arrived in 2008) receiving some speech therapy, and she looked great!

In addition to having children who come for services during the day, they have a respite program for parents of children with disabilities. Parents can bring their children for 3 hours a week and staff care for them while the parents get a break. The manager of the clinic, Mirella, used a space that was supposed to have two bathrooms for a play room so she could provide this program.

They have separate houses for groups of up to twelve children, separated by age and ability. Each house has multiple bedrooms, a living room/playroom, a kitched, and a dining room. They seemed pretty clean, and had tons of toys. Sammy looked the same, just bigger, and had the same joking personality. I bent over his crib, not thinking, and he immediately pulled my hair and wouldn't let go. Evan and Cathy saw Ana Maria in another house and said she looked great, and that the staff said she is "spoiled" there. Maiastra was wonderful! She ran into the room we were in with her wild hair flowing behind her (shoulder length but not brushed) and immediately jumped into my arms. She got carried and thrown around by all of us, which is a feat now that she is a big girl of almost seven. She still has her same great giggle!

Our babies were very happy to see us. Ionut wash happy to gt some tickles, Ion sat next to Mihaela just beaming, Alina screamed in excitement and switched right into English when she saw me, and Marius was quite happy when Evav and Cathy picked him up. Unfortunately we didn't take any pictures, so look forward to some in the future!

The other kids in that house were also very sweet, and enjoyed some cuddles with us. Each kid actually has their own clothes in their closets, and Alina's was FILLED with girly clothes her size. My guess is they get a lot of donations, but very rarely have a child that small. Sadly they did all have some bug bites on their faces, but they didn't seem too bothered by them. We had always heard they don't take babies but there was a little boy who will be 1 year old in July in that house. He appeared to have a clubbed foot, a repaired cleft lip, cleft palate, and I'm not sure what else.

We returned to the clinic after that, and since our other children had still not returned, I spent some time talking to the other children and families. A couple families actually requested that I take their pictures, and I happily obliged! One mom told me that she had seen us on TV, and started talking to the other mom about Tutova. Even the younger Ionut knew somehow that the children who's pictures I was showing him were from Tutova. Who knows! I wish I could get the families their pictures, as one asked, but unfortunately some are leaving as soon as tomorrow.

The Beautiful Big Andreea

2011-04-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

Andreea is in the hospital with her grandmother for pneumonia. She is beautiful, and has tiny gold hoop earrings. It is hard to believe she is five years old now! What an amazing and loving grandma! The grandmother even brought her into our room later to visit us, and she said she remembered Cristi from when Andreea was in Tutova. The grandma walked her up and down the halls a lot, and even got her to "stand up" on the bed in their room, though she is still working on her head control. She has thinned out a lot as she has grown quite tall. It was great to see her! The grandma gave her permission for these pictures :)

First Full Day in Barlad

2011-04-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

Today was our first full day at the Children's Hospital. We arrived around ten and had a lengthy meeting with the manager and the head doctor and nurse of the third floor where our kids are. They were very welcoming, as were all the other staff on the floor. We then headed up to the third floor, and the nurse first took us to see a surprise guest: the old big Andreea from the clinic! Then we went to work with our kids, and a few older boys under CPS care, who joined us on and off to play. The kids were happy as usual, and were very happy to have their favorite toys back!

We were happily surprised when we arrived to find that Cristi was already up pracicing walking with an aide! We played, fed bottles, the put the kids down to nap at one. We went down to the cafeteria, which you have to go outside to get to, to eat our lunch. We had brought sandwiches from the hotel, so we had those, and it was almost time to go back to the kids already. Cathy and Evan went on a quick walk, and I went to Raul. He was cranky today, but I stayed with him for about an hour. I kept trying to get him to sleep because I could tell he was tired, but he didn't want to. Then I told him I was going up to visit the other kids for a few minutes, and when I opened the door to leave he started SCREAMING. I felt awful, but I wanted to see the other kids at least for a few minutes. I stayed upstairs for about 15 minutes, then Cathy and I went back down, and Raul had fallen asleep :)

Back upstairs for more playing and dancing! The older boys were so excited to play with our toys, and they were responsible, so we let them take them to their room and bring them back as they wanted. They were very sweet, probably 10-12, and kept talking to us in Romanian even when we explained that we didn't understand.

When we were kissing all the babies at the end one of the boys, Ionut, asked if we were leaving, and we said yes, then he asked if we would be back tomorrow, and when we said yes he was very excited! Then as we walked down the hall, all of a sudden he latched on to me and gave me a big kiss on the cheek, then proceeded to do the same to Mihaela, Evan, and Cathy. I am glad we are able to provide some love and entertainment for the other children there without parents too!

Our children have been receiving lots of tests, as they are having a head to toe evaluation. Tomorrow Nicoleta and Ana Maria are going to Iasi for the day for genetic and chromosomal testing. Then the next day Cleo is going to a neurosurgeon in Iasi for the day. They are looking for some specific things with the little ones, so we will see how the tests come back! Since we will have fewer kids tomorrow, we have gotten permission to visit the CPS special needs center after lunch, to see four of our other sweet babies!

On a separate note, it SNOWED mid-morning today! Only for a couple minutes, but it was wild!

Cristi took a long nap but still tried to hide from pictures in his sleep

Paula is especially happy at the hospital!

Dancing to the radio

Cleo (she is on antibiotics for a bad cough)

Ana Maria (a little monkey as always!)

The hospital

Last Friday

2011-04-10T10:17:00.001-07:00

Last Friday brought a happy ending for Andrada. One that was much needed by all of us! We arrived at the clinic around 10 and the foster parents were already there filling out the paperwork. all the aides and volunteers crowded into the lobby passing around Andrada for final kisses. The parents seemed great, and we were happy to see her go with them. After they left, we went around all the rooms and collected toys/books that we can use with the kids at the hospital and the special needs facility.

After lunch Cathy and Evan left for a weekend in Iasi. Jane and I went off the Barlad Children's Hospital, which will be where we are volunteering this week. The hospital was better than we had remembered, and the children were all in different clothes, and seemingly happy. Cleo had an IV port in her temple, as they are giving her antibiotics for a cough. Raul is on a different floor from the others, and I spent most of my time with him. He is with the preemies, has his own room, and the staff seemed nice. Unfortunately he has beeen refusing to eat though, and they are not able to change his bandages until I bring supplies.

The group upstairs was surprised to find Andreea (with CP) who used to live at the Tutova Clinic! She was inpatient for a cold, but her grandmother was with her. Hopefully the rest of us can see her tomorrow! We left a bit early, but stopped at the store to buy diapers for the hospital (they are in desperate need). We looked for mats to put on the floor in the upstairs hospital room so we can get the kids out of bed, but couldn't find them, so we may go for blankets from the clinic instead.

And if you can believe it, the hospital is even hotter than the clinic!!

Jane left Saturday morning with Dorel to head to Bucharest, then back home. I spent the weekend resting. Mostly sleeping, with some movies and reading thrown in! Tonight I met up with Evan and Cathy for dinner.

A Happy Ending!

2011-04-08T01:20:00.000-07:00

We arrived this morning to find that they had in fact found a foster family for Andrada, and she would not have to go to the hospital. The foster parents seemed very nice. They live in Vaslui, and have two adult children. They were so happy to be getting a little one, and you could tell they already cared deeply about her. There were about 20 adults all in the entry way passing her around to say goodbye, and Andrada was very patient! We were glad to have a happy ending!

New mama

New tata

Pa, Andrada!

Pictures from Evan and Jane

2011-04-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

Media getting video of the priest and Andrada before the baptism

Right before the ambulance came for Raul

In the morning before he threw up and we both had to change our clothes :(

Alina heading off to Barlad

This is what we call baby sharing...

Our team with Coca and Nicoletta

Alina about to leave. Note the wet string of hair that Daria had been secretly sucking on... lovely...

Dr. Delia and Dan talking to the media

Coca and I saying goodbye to Raul

Nicoletta getting Cleo ready to go

TV crew #1

Evan's Blog

2011-04-07T11:16:00.001-07:00

Please see Evan's blog for an in depth description of today. I will be writing about it tomorrow probably when I have more time, but Evan was good enough to write it up tonight!

http://evanbabies.blogspot.com/

Pa, Gabriela!

2011-04-07T10:58:00.001-07:00

Gabriela's departure was last, and certainly the strangest. I don't think we can share all the details, but let's just say it was a quick goodbye, and a bit of a surprise arrival for her family. Dan, Ramona, Nicoletta, and Milica drove her home. Her village was supposed to be about half an hour away, but it ended up taking them almost three hours to find it! Apparently Gabi liked the car ride though, and cuddled with Milica. Once they got there they found the mom, along with Gabi's twin Mihaela, and not one, but TWO other kids under age five! The kids were having fun, and the oldest claimed she was in kindergarten, but we aren't positive. Apparently Mihaela had lost some weight, but looked good. The family is very poor, and their house was not great, but the kids seemed happy, so that's a good sign!

Pa, Cleo and Raul!

2011-04-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

Cleo and Raul left this afternoon for the hospital. Both children were visibly upset and anxious, Raul especially. They both went by ambulance, but in two separate ones. We, and the staff, were all especially sad to see them leave, as we know the care they receive will not be the same that Tutova could offer them. Hopefully we will be able to work with them next week in the hospital!

Just look at Cleo's face...

Pa, Cleo!

Coca and I held him while they finished the paperwork

Pa, Raul!

TV Reports

2011-04-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Here are two, of dozens, of stories about Tutova. We have had four stations at the clinic the past two days, both days for over 12 hours. Some reports were live, but these were not. You can see Ana, Nicoletta, Daria, and Raul all leaving by ambulance, as well as interviews, and shots of the clinic.

http://videonews.antena3.ro/action/viewvideo/802702/Copii-aruncaaati-din-Spitalul-de-Cronici-de-la-Tutova/

http://www.realitatea.net/zece-copii-abandonati-de-stat-dupa-ce-spitalul-tutova-s-a-desfiintat_822052.html

http://videonews.antena3.ro/action/viewvideo/802663/Vaslui-20-de-copii-care-sufera-de-boli-grave-au-fost-lasati-in-voia-sortii/

Pa, Daria and Maria!

2011-04-07T10:34:00.001-07:00

This morning Dan and Milica brought Maria Alexandra home to her mom around 7 am. The house conditions were not great, but Maria's older sister Denisa (who used to be at the clinic) is doing really well, so we expect the same for Maria! Daria also left early this morning with her mother to go to Iasi for her palate surgery. They left by ambulance, and the footage was shown on the news tonight. Daria will go home after her surgery. The mother had told us yesterday that she was not able to get ample milk and diapers for Daria, so we brought some this morning, but they had already left.

Maria

Daria

Pa, Petre!

2011-04-07T10:22:00.000-07:00

Petre left for home this morning. We heard mixed reviews about the conditions of his house. His parents didn't seem to know what to do with a child, and the photo journalist said that was evident when they got home. Luckily we sent home lots of clothes, food, and toys with him! The parents did not seem to like us, and gave us looks for playing with Petre while they waited. Then when we went out to walk them to the car the mom shooed us away. Luckily the aide Nicoletta went with them in the car, which probably helped Petre!

Trying to hide!

And then there was one...

2011-04-07T10:03:00.000-07:00

Andrada is now the only child left at the clinic. She was supposed to be going into foster care tomorrow, but we just got word that she will be going to Barlad Children's Hospital until at least the beginning of next week as a family has not been found yet. The most children we had today was four, with two in their beds, so Andrada got a lot of attention! She was thrilled to be the center of attention, and we all took turns holding her. At the end of the day she was baptized, unfortunately it was a bit cheesy for TV (we opted out of attending). Earlier in the day they had said no news cameras could be present, but guess what, we watched part of it on TV while we ate dinner!

TV Debut

2011-04-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

Pictures courtesy of Jane!
When we arrived at the clinic this morning, we were greeted by a TV camera crew. They were there all day, and joined by a second network, who both stayed until 9 PM! The segments were shown live, and in re-run, on two major national networks. At dinner Evan and I went to use the bathroom, and saw one of the segments on TV! They showed a lot of Raul, and had a great shot of Alina running into Dr. Delia's arms. All the kids' faces were blurred out. We were also shown briefly, and blurred out. Mihaela and Dr. Delia gave interviews, as well as some others I believe. They also did "interviews" with Andrada, Ion, Raul, and Alina. Ion got to strip down and show off his scar, as you can see below. They filmed around the grounds of the hospital, and in all the empty crib rooms. We are glad that our story is getting out, and that people are learning about our children!

Pa, Ana Maria and Nicoletta!

2011-04-06T11:57:00.000-07:00

Jane and I stayed late at the clinic before lunch to see Andreea off, yet somehow between when we left and when we arrived back, Nicoletta and Ana Maria were taken off to the hospital. Jane and I saw an ambulance go by when we were eating, but we were convinced they couldn't have taken any of our kids that fast, oh well! On TV tonight we saw a clip of them being put into the ambulance, and we could hear Ana crying. Hopefully they will be okay at the hospital. For sure they will demand the attention they so deserve!

Nicoletta

Ana Maria

Pa Marius, Ionut, and Ion!

2011-04-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

This afternoon the boys, and Alina, headed off to the facility for older children with special needs. They all left at once with a car from the facility. We got to talk to the woman who runs the facility for a while, as she spoke English, and she seemed very nice. We talked to her about the kids, and the work we do here. She said she wished she could move our facility to their land, as she thought ours was very nice. She saw that I was sad about Alina leaving, and said that we can visit whenever we want (and hopefully we'll be working there anyway!). They took the childrens' beds and cribs from Tutova to the new facility with them, which will hopefully make the transition a bit easier.

Ionut

Marius

Ion

Pa, Alina!

2011-04-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

Off to the facility for older children with special needs

Pa, Andreea!

2011-04-06T03:45:00.000-07:00

Andreea left suddenly today for foster care. Her foster mom arrived in the morning, but it took until lunchtime until everything was settled and they could leave. Andreea was scared at first, but warmed up to her new mama, and went willingly with her in the end. The mom brought her a new hat, and lots of snacks, which unfortunately the boys trashed most of. Her mom was very patient, and didn't push Andreea to come to her. They had a driver with them, and he was very friendly as well. At home she will have a foster father, and three sisters (18, 16, and 11). Her mom said the sisters are very excited to meet Andreea! She seemed genuinely nice and caring, and we hope this will turn out well for Andreea!

First glimpse of her foster mom

Andreea's new hat from her foster mom

Andreea and Jane

Putting on some lip gloss

Coca and Andreea

Playing with foster mama's purse

The hand off

Andreea and her new foster mom

Pa, Tutova!

Pa, Paula and Cristi!

2011-04-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

This afternoon Cristi and Paula left for Barlad Children's Hospital. We believe more children will be following them, but they were the first to go. In the morning Jane dressed Cristi in cute big boy clothes and sneakers to practice his walking. He has improved so much, and will often only hold one finger. Paula had a great morning! She wandered around the halls, lay in a toddler bed with me, and gave me dozens of nose kisses, and two real kisses! It was a scence though when it came time for them to leave. Both kids were crying, as well as the other big kids (they seemed to feel the tension), and we were all crowded into the entryway. We had to hand the kids off to the ambulance people among the screams, and off they went. Though they ran back once because apparently a dog ate Cristi's shoe!

Pa, Andreea and Roxana!

2011-04-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

Andreea and Roxana went home with their parents today. They were there when we arrived in the morning, and left soon after. We gave them the treasured drum in their bag to take home, as it was one of their favorite toys. Their dad was so excited to be taking them home! He was joking around, making silly faces, and hugging them. The mom showed little to no emotion, and reportedly hasn't wanted to take them home before, while the dad has always wanted them. Luckily the mom has agreed to take them home, and hopefully she will love them as much as we already do!

Day #31 Pictures

2011-04-05T09:34:00.000-07:00

Sampling some whipped cream

Alina isn't a big fan...

Ionut loves it!

Sleeping in the bumbo

Cathy playing with Alina and Maria

Maria

Daria

Ionut

Gabriela

Maria

Andrada

Gabriela

Andreea

Gabriela

Jane walking Cristi (he has improved so much!)

Nicoletta

My Babies

2011-04-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

Some Updates

2011-04-04T23:02:00.000-07:00

At the end of last week we had visits from Daria and Maria's moms again. They both plan to take their girls home when they can. There was also a religious service in the preschool room with a priest, icons, incense, a pulpit, etc. Coca and Nicoletta, the aides, took part in the service in representation of all the staff. They prayed for the hospital, the staff, the patients.

Over the weekend Cathy, Jane, and Evan took a trip into Barlad Saturday morning, then Cathy rested at the hotel (as I did), while Evan and Jane spent half of each day at the clinic. Much to their surprise, when they arrived at the hospital, the gates were all locked, and they actually had to climb over the fence! Apparently Jane fell trying to avoid a dog? The doors to the main hospital have also been sealed by the government, and there is a bar across the main front door, however there are still people working inside. I felt guilty not going to the clinic over the weekend, but I needed to rest up for this week!

Early this morning Celine left for Bucharest with her mother for further medical evaluations. Then we were surprised later in the morning when Alexandra's mother, and an unidentified young man (cousin?) arrived to take her home... again. We were all surprised that the parents are allowed to take her home and bring her back so many times. We are not sure what they will do now if they cannot take care of her. And after giving her clothes and toys to take home, I was dismayed when we were told her mother would probably sell them!

Bottles were late since Alex was getting ready to leave, so the kids all waited in their rooms. We spent some time with the toddlers in their room, and they were wild! Climbing into the sink, hiding in cabinets, running laps. I brought in Alina and we lay on a bed, and she almost fell asleep! She was NOT happy when I put her back in her crib when we left. Courtesy of Jane, we also got some kids hand prints in cement molds. Andreea just dug her hand in it, Alina was terrified of it (but I got one!), and Cristi mostly cooperated.

Raul was out of isolation all day today! And I was happy when the new male nurse did one of the best bandage changes I have seen done on him! I went in to talk to him while they worked, and he actually laughed some while it was happening. I also put a new outfit on him (over his inside out sleeper). The babies had a good afternoon, and then right before leaving we had a dance party with the younger toddlers (twins, Gabi, Cristi, and Alina). We were exhausted after about one song, but the kids really enjoyed it!

In other news, the toilet paper is now lavender. That's a first for me!

Day #30 Pictures

2011-04-04T15:53:00.000-07:00

During out afternoon dance party!

Tilt your screen and you will see Alina's hand print (courtesy of Jane)

Raul in the swing

Ana Maria

Daria's last night at the clinic

With my boy

Big boy clothes!

Raul liked his new clothes

Raul in the morning

Andrada

Cristi in his penguin suit from Jane

Raul playing

Andrada, Maria, and Raul

Andrada and Ana Maria

Ionut in big boy clothes

Pa, Celine!

2011-04-04T04:21:00.000-07:00

Early this morning Celine left with her mother, driven by Dorel, to Bucharest. She will be undergoing some extensive tests and evaluations while she is there, then will return to Barlad. Dr. Delia hopes that she will stop by Tutova with Celine on her way back, then stay in Barlad Children's Hospital for a week or so before taking her home (if that is still her plan). Hopefully Celine is able to go home, as I believe she will do great there!

Pa, Alexandra!

2011-04-04T03:33:00.000-07:00

Alex's mom and brother showed up this morning declaring that they wanted to take Alex home (again!). I thought that after last time they brought her back, they weren't allowed to take her again, but I guess that wasn't true. We hadn't expected them, so I ran around and packed her a back with a few toys and some clothes. There were only two aides in the building at the time, so they were appreciative of the help. Alexandra was not too happy with what was happening (if you can't tell from her face in the picture!). She was making her unhappy noises, and trying to cling to us. She even gave me a little kiss when I was getting her dressed to leave. Hopefully all will go well, this time!

Week #4 Photos

2011-04-01T13:02:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Jane and Evan!

Alina loves sliding!

My Lina-Bug

Andreea

Roxana and Alina in the tunnel

Alina exploring

Daria loves the tunnel

Alina

Milica feeding Alina outside

Celine eating organic fruit/veggie puree. She loved it!

Alina and Andreea holding hands outside

Andreea and Roxana

Cristi

The First Goodbyes

2011-04-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the last day for three of the aides: Vale, Lili, and Mirela

As well as these three aides, nurses Mihaela, Gina, and Adriana have left. Oana will stay on at the senior facility, and nurse Cristi has already gone abroad to work.

Day #26 Photos (Outside)

2011-03-31T12:30:00.000-07:00

Cristi

Marius

Playground

Andreea

Celine

Daria

Roxana and Gabriela

Big kids

With my pink girls

Ion

Watching the road

Andreea

Andreea and Ion

Petre

Jane trying to teach the boys to be nice to the dog

My girls

Alex

Alina and Alex

Day #26 Photos (Inside)

2011-03-31T12:18:00.001-07:00

Andrada

Robin and Maria

Cristi

Alina and Alex

Alex

Ion

Alina and Daria

Evan and Alina playing patty-cake

Mirela and Alex

Celine

Celine, Frostanica, and Petre

Lily and Andreea

Lily and Alina

Alina Ballerina

2011-03-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

Days 24+25

2011-03-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday brought visits from both Daria and Celine's mothers. Daria had her last cleft surgery scheduled for the end of May, but they might try to move it up. Similarly, Celine's mom wanted to check to make sure that she will still be going to Bucharest next week for her evaluations. Jane brought a tunnel, and the kids have been having a great time crawling through it and rolling it around. The morning was short as the aides had a meeting at 12, so everything was done a bit early. I slept in the afternoon, as I hadn't slept well the night before. I had just been planning on taking a nap during lunch, and a bit longer, but then didn't wake up until almost 5! At 5:30 we went into Barlad for dinner at the Italian restaurant and shopping at the grocery store. We were able to buy snacks for ourselves, as well as supplies for the clinic.

Today the big kids got to go outside in the morning with Jane, Evan, Robin, and some of the aides. Mihaela had to leave at about 10 to attend to business in Barlad, but the day went quite smoothly. The babies alternated between calm and hysterical, but overall the non-mobiles had a good day. Raul was able to be out of isolation and in the playroom for our whole work day other than during his bandage change. It was great to see him watch the other children, and even be able to interact with them. At the end of the day Jane, Evan, and I played with all the mobile children in the big playroom. They were wild, but Milica helped us control them. Milica let Celine and Andreea play with her cell phones, and we taught Celine to say "show me the money" into the phone. Then we came back to the hotel for a very humor filled dinner.

Day #25 Pictures

2011-03-30T10:24:00.001-07:00

Pretending we went outside with the big kids

Raul in the playroom!

Robin and Ana

Cathy and the babies

Alina

Raul

Paula

Alina

Maria

Raul and Maria

Raul playing in the playroom

Non-mobile room

Daria in a cute new outfit from Jane

More Day #23 Pictures

2011-03-28T04:16:00.000-07:00

Ana Maria

Ana with Gellina

Alexandra

Raul

Ionut

Cleo

Cristi

Daria

Celine

Andreea

Maria

Cristi and Ionut playing

Baby Models

2011-03-28T04:10:00.000-07:00

Andrada

Nicoletta

Alina's Photoshoot

2011-03-28T04:02:00.000-07:00

Orientation #13

2011-03-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

Today was my 13th, and possibly final, GV Romania orientation. The day was filled with the usual activities, as well as talk about the current situation at the clinic and what may happen. We will get more firm answers tomorrow night or Tuesday once Dr. Delia returns. She has been in Jerusalem since we found out the news, we suspect praying about the situation. Our team goals and characteristics had more meaning during this difficult time. While many of our team characteristics were the usual ones, they all took on a new meaning given the situation, and we had additions such as staying in the present and taking care of ourselves to be able to better take care of the children. Also honesty with ourselves and others, and understanding of each other during this hard time.

We visited the clinic for about an hour to see the kids. It was wild as usual, and gave Cathy, our sole new volunteer, a crash course in clinic rules and behaviors. We have a really great team to go through this time with, and luckily lots of past volunteers (and flexible new volunteers), as we may need to take on extra duties and responsibilities. Some of the children were shy at first, surprisingly including Alina, but they warmed up quickly. Last week Robin and I taught Alina to say "I am a U.S. citizen", though Mihaela reminded us that kidnapping would break the GV policy of not breaking local/international laws! There was also some question by volunteers about the border security of Romania :)

Tonight at 7 P.M, our team (joined by waiter, Ovidiu, and others worldwide), took a few minutes of silence to pray for the children and staff of the Tutova Clinic. Despite the news that we are hearing, we are trying to think of the positives this may bring. Such as, if we are able to start work in the facility for older children with special needs, there are many more children there that need help. Our work may expand and support even more children in this area. Hopefully we will know in the next few weeks if this will be a possibility.

We plan on bringing all our new clothes for the kids in the coming days, and possibly weeks, to make sure they get the chance to wear them! Tomorrow will be our first dress up party! We also discussed a possible sleep over at the clinic with hairdo's and nailpolish galore for the kids! And I'm sure that would be completed with bows and tutu's as well!

Prayers For The Tutova Clinic

2011-03-25T11:32:00.000-07:00

As most of you know by now, the Tutova Clinic will be closing in the upcoming months. The government has decided to shut down many Romanian hospitals, and ours' is one of them. It will then be turned into a facility for the elderly. The children will be sent home, to foster care, to the city hospital, to a placement center, and to a facility for older children with special needs. The staff, many who have worked here their whole adult lives, will be out of work. As you can imagine, this has been a very difficult time for everyone involved. Our local host has asked that everyone who is willing and able, pray for the children and the staff on Sunday at 7 p.m. Romanian time (12 p.m. EST). Please comment on this post if you are able, as we are encouraged by the numbers of people praying! Below you can see the current faces of the Tutova babies:

Andrada (7 months)

Nicoletta (17 months)

Alexandra (8.5 years)

Ionut (3.5 years)

Celine (3 years)

Andreea (2.5 years)

Maria (5-6 months)

Ana Maria (12 months)

Ion (3 years)

Petre (23 months)

Paula (4.5 years)

Maria Cleopatra (2.5 years)

Raul (18 months)

Cristi Daniel (4.5 years)

Gabriela (3 years)

Andreea and Roxana (2 years)

Alina (3.5 years)

Marius (3 years)

Daria (19 months)

Clinic Playground

Laundry Section

Tutova Clinic

*A special thank you to the "lurkers" who are coming out of the woodwork to support us!

Maria's Family Visit

2011-03-25T04:29:00.001-07:00

Maria Alexandra

Denisa (she was at the clinic last spring as a baby)

Denisa

Mom and beautiful daughters

Day #19 Pictures

2011-03-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

Andreea

Petre

Alina

Ion

Celine

Ion

Alina

Finally warm again!

Ionut

Nicoletta

Ana Maria

Babies out of isolation (Nico went back in about an hour later)

Day #18 Pictures

2011-03-24T04:45:00.000-07:00

Mirella doing a puzzle with the twins

Ion

Alexandra

Petre

Celine

Alina in a box haha

Andreea

Nicoletta

Paula "high fiving" Robin

Cleo

Daria

Robin and Maria

Gabriela

Ana Maria

Gabriella with Andrada (Andy in the background)

Day # 17

2011-03-22T12:14:00.000-07:00

No pictures today. The morning started with laundry preparation and a team meeting after breakfast. We were permitted to spring Maria, Ana, and Andrada from isolation, and bring them to the smaller playroom. They were joined by Cristi, Ionut, Gabriela, and Paula, while the other kids were in the big playroom (and Nicoletta and Raul were in isolation). We were privileged to see a visit from the twins' father and grandmother, who were very happy to see the girls, and also brought cookies for the other big kids.

After lunch the big kids joined Malika in the pre-school room, while the others were in the same rooms, including the twins and Daria in the big playroom. Apparently they did really well with the three of them and just one volunteer. The babies have already advanced so much with one day out of isolation, it is amazing! Raul was able to make a guest appearance in the non-mobile playroom, and enjoyed watching the kids play from the rocking chair. He particularly enjoyed when Gabby came over to visit him and they both giggled when he touched her face. We fed the children, played a bit more, then with hugs and kisses from the kids we headed back to the hotel for dinner. Unfortunately, we missed having Andy at dinner as he had stayed at the clinic to wait for his IV treatment. Luckily he arrived back at the hotel just as Gabriela was going to go looking for him!

My Newest Little Love: Andrada

2011-03-21T11:42:00.000-07:00