Dengue fever

Hey guys. Sorry I don't have a lot of time to email you this week. :) But I love you all sooo much and hope you are doing well. Hope you had a blast at reunion and I will email you next week! 

Love, 

Sister Healey

Written by Mom:

This is the letter we got from Maddie on Sunday, July 31.  We weren't concerned because every once in a while she is unable to write a long letter home because of time constraints.  On Monday evening we received a call from the Mission President and his wife.  They informed us that Maddie had been admitted to the hospital with dengue fever.  She was ill when she emailed us, but did not want us to worry so she didn't tell us.  This is a common viral illness in the Philippines which is transmitted by mosquito.  Most cases do not require hospitalization, but she was having a hard time with the illness and dehydration was a concern.  They assured us that she was in good hands and can expect a complete recovery and that we do not need to worry excessively.

We were able to speak to Maddie on the phone on Tuesday evening from the hospital.  She was in pretty good spirits but was very tired.  She is doing better after having an IV, but her blood platelets are still low so for now she will remain in the hospital.

Dengue fever lasts for 7 to 10 days, generally, and as of today, Wednesday, she has had the virus for about 6 days.  The high fevers have subsided and the severe joint pain is just an ache now.  She is still nauseous, has headaches, and has a rash and fatigue, but she is improving each day.  She has an indomitable spirit and looks on the positive side of everything, always worried about others before herself.

As her mother I can't help but worry and wish that I could be by her side to help nurse her back to health, but I know the Lord is with her and in what better hands could she be?  It may be a week or two before she is well enough to be back at work, sharing the gospel in the Philippines, but I have no doubt that she will be out teaching again as soon as possible.  She loves being a missionary and she loves the people there.