So Strong

Imara is definitely a very strong little girl.

Her burns are doing better, however it appears that more of the burns with her mouth were inside her mouth instead of outside, but we need advanced equipment to assess esophageal involvement not available here.  Additionally, 4 of her teeth were knocked out.  The cerebral swelling appears to be affecting her optic nerves.  The bottom of her feet were also burned fairly badly.  She may have brachial plexus involvement with her right shoulder dislocation, which is preventing most of the use of her right hand.  It also probable that she has a spleen or liver injury due to fluid and blood in her abdomen.  Imara needs advanced treatment quickly for her brain, arm, and abdominal trauma to hopefully prevent long-term loss of function or death.

Despite all the pain Imara is in, she smiles and even dances a little!  She is sweet and responds appropriately to questions.  She is a tough one.

We are waiting on her passport at this point which should be ready on Wednesday.  At that point, we need the U.S. Embassy to issue her a medical visa and then Congolese immigration (DGM) to authorize her departure with what is called an exit letter.  We hope and pray each will be quick to get her the care she needs soon!