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
