As I sit here typing, the temperature outside is a freezing 22 degrees Fahrenheit, with several inches of snow blanketing the ground at my apartment in America. It’s a stark contrast to the warm, humid climate of Nigeria that I experienced during my time at Egbe Hospital in September. Yet, the warmth of the memories I carry from that mission trip more than makes up for the cold outside.
Since I was fourteen years old, I’ve felt a deep calling to become a nurse on the mission field. In 2024, God graciously fulfilled that dream. When I returned home, countless people asked me about Africa and my experience there. My first response is always to express how blessed we are in America—and how much we often take for granted.
Humbling Moments of Gratitude as a Volunteer Nurse
Some of my most poignant memories come from witnessing the joy that small acts of kindness brought to the people of Egbe. I’ll never forget the nursing student who was so grateful for a single orange crayon I gave her to use as a highlighter. Or the little girl who jumped up and down with a beaming smile after receiving a Bible storybook. Another child knelt down to thank me for bringing her a coloring book.
I remember teaching children how to color, many of whom had never even seen crayons or stickers before. These moments of joy and gratitude left a lasting impression on me. It made me realize how often we take for granted the simple things, like access to school supplies, medical care, or vaccines. I saw wounds and illnesses that in America would heal almost before they even started, thanks to our advanced healthcare system.
May God remind me never to take these blessings for granted again.
Worshiping with the People of Egbe
While the physical needs of the people left an impression, the spiritual vibrancy of Egbe is what truly inspired me. The people of Egbe loved to worship, pray, and sing—and they did so with a passion and joy that was contagious. Wednesday night prayer rounds were particularly impactful. As we prayed and sang together, I was reminded that God’s people are everywhere, and despite our cultural differences, we are all imperfect humans in need of a Savior.
One of the hymns we often sang, How Great Thou Art, has taken on new meaning for me. Now, every time I hear it, I’m transported back to Egbe, where I saw firsthand the greatness of God in the faith of His people.
A Volunteer Nurse: Changed for the Better
As a volunteer nurse, I thought I was going to Egbe to make an impact, but instead, Egbe impacted me. The experience challenged me to live out my faith more boldly, to express gratitude for all I have, and to recognize how truly rich I am—not in material possessions, but in the blessings God has given me.
The people of Egbe have forever become a part of my heart. One day, I hope to return, but until then, I will carry the lessons and memories of Egbe with me.
To any Christian considering serving on the mission field, even for a short time, I cannot recommend it enough. God can use your talents, and in the process, you will be changed for the better.
Doni K., Volunteer Nurse
If you’re inspired by this story and want to learn more about serving at Egbe Hospital or supporting the work being done there, visit our volunteer page. Together, we can continue to bring hope and healing to Egbe and beyond.
