Diabetic Retinopathy

Sunday, November 2

Diabetes is a big problem in Jordan.  If it isn't brought under control diabetes can cause blindness (Diabetic Retinopathy).   Since the Jordanians are a very proud people, and it's hard for them to admit they have anything wrong with their health, they neglect to see a doctor until it's too late and they go blind. Local health clinics had been given very expensive diagnostic equipment but it was lying around not being used.

Brent and Margaret Strong are working with national leaders and health care workers to address the problem and to do what they can to help.  They are a very personable couple and have made friends with many leaders in the country.  They have been very successful in bringing with other agencies and churches together to find solutions.

Today we went with the Strongs to the Jordan University of Science and Technology where we met with the head of the school of nursing.  She will be part of a national team the Strongs are helping to coordinate.  We didn't have much of a clue what they were talking about.