Getting to know one another...

Soman continues to settle in, and adjust to life in the U.S. and the Coker household.  Soman is here for a cardiac condition, and we're not talking about anything minor - her heart needs extensive rebuilding and reworking.  As I best understand it, there are reversed ventricles and no separation between her oxygenated and unoxygenated blood.  These cardiac complications have resulted in at least one - perhaps multiple - strokes, which have affected the left side of her body - she has no use of her left arm, and will not regain use of that limb.  She walks with a limp, as well.  Before she has heart surgery, she needs extensive dental work, which will have to be done in the hospital, due to her heart condition.  Soman is a very quiet and shy child - withdrawn at times, and it is difficult to tell if this is simply a product of her personality, her background, or her various medical conditions - or perhaps a combination of all these factors.  But, don't get me wrong - she's an incredibly loving child with a smile and laugh that will warm anyone's heart.

We had a real treat this past weekend, as Ashraf temporarily returned to our house, while his new host family took their own children to summer camp.  Ashraf now has the frame on his foot, which requires frequent tweaking and adjustment.  His tolerance for pain and patience with his recovery is amazing - he's such a brave guy.

Ashraf talks with Soman at the Solace medical screenings.

Caroline's 10th birthday party at Nana's house, with some new Afghan friends.

Soman currently prefers the pool from this perspective.

Ashraf functioned as the party interpreter and lifeguard.

Everyone's ready to attend the Afghan-Persian dinner.

Soman and Omid with Dr. Loveless, the amazing Pediatric Orthopedist.

Thanks for staying tuned to the blog -

Bryan

(Very) Late Night Arrival

They have arrived!  Soman, the 14 other Afghan children, and their two incredible interpreters/chaperons arrived in Jacksonville late last night/early this morning at 1:30 AM.  This arrival occurred after an extremely lengthy trip from Kabul, including an unexpected 20+ hour layover in Dubai. 



On Memorial Day afternoon, host families gathered @ our house to make their airport "welcome" signs -

Abed & Ashraf wrote the names &messages in Persian

At the airport - Susanna (Ashraf's new host mom), Abed, & Ashraf discuss their excitement about the children's arrival (notice Ashraf's post-surgery crutches)

Marley, Sara, & Caroline just can't wait!

Chris & his "beer" (bear) waiting on Soman...

The children are here - coming down the concourse!

Day one in Jacksonville - Soman & mom (Sara) @ the dentist

Day one in Jacksonville - Caroline (mermaid), Soman, Abed, & Chris after the

4th grade play @ Hendricks Avenue Elementary

Soman's first day included a dentist visit as well as the first visit with her cardiologist.  Her diagnosis from the cardiologist was complex, but he feels good about her prognosis for treatment.  I'll go into detail about this in a future message.  Soman has a heart cath scheduled for tomorrow (Friday).  We appreciate your prayers for all of these very special children, and the amazing army of hosts and other volunteers supporting them.

Bryan