Faith and Resilience: Unveiling Insights from the Eisenhut Ebola Interview

Evangelism in the Ebola Epidemic

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the inspiring story of Dr. Deborah Eisenhut, a medical missionary with SIM, a faith-based international mission agency. Dr. Eisenhut's journey from a general surgeon in Oregon to a medical missionary in Liberia during the Ebola epidemic is a testament to her unwavering faith and commitment to serving others.

Preparation for Missionary Work

Before embarking on her missionary journey, Dr. Eisenhut recognized the importance of being well-prepared both spiritually and intellectually. She understood that defending her faith was crucial, so she joined Bible Study Fellowship to deepen her knowledge of the Bible and grow in her own faith. Additionally, she sought to address intellectual challenges by taking a geology course and attending creation conferences.

Dr. Eisenhut emphasizes the significance of being actively involved in one's local church and community as a foundation for effective missionary work. She believes that true impact begins at home and that evangelism should be an integral part of daily life. By engaging in evangelism and actively working within her local church, Dr. Eisenhut developed the skills and passion necessary for her future mission work.

Missionary Work Overseas

In 2007, Dr. Eisenhut was stationed in Pakistan for almost four years before joining SIM and being sent to Liberia. At ELWA Hospital (Eternal Love Winning Africa) near Monrovia, she worked as a surgeon while also contributing to the holistic revitalization of the hospital. Recognizing that Liberia faced deep spiritual challenges due to the lingering effects of a civil war and prevalent fear of evil spirits, Dr. Eisenhut understood that medical work alone would not address the root problems facing the country.

She firmly believes that spiritual renewal through faith in Jesus Christ is the key to lasting impact and transformation. While providing essential medical care, Dr. Eisenhut also shared the love and hope of Christ with the people of Liberia, addressing their spiritual needs alongside their physical ailments.

Preparing for the Ebola Crisis

In March 2014, the Ebola virus unexpectedly hit West Africa, including Liberia. Dr. Eisenhut and her team realized the urgent need to be prepared for the possibility of treating Ebola patients at ELWA Hospital. They began training the entire staff in basic infection control measures and makeshift protective equipment using bandanas, kitchen aprons, and surgical gowns.

To isolate Ebola patients from other hospital patients, a makeshift Ebola ward was created in the hospital's chapel. Additionally, a triage tent was set up to screen and separate potential Ebola cases. Samaritan's Purse provided funding and supplies to support ELWA Hospital's efforts.

Treating Ebola Patients

The training and preparations at ELWA Hospital proved invaluable when they received their first Ebola patient in June 2014. By implementing basic hygiene measures such as handwashing and using diluted bleach solutions, as well as wearing makeshift protective gear, no ELWA staff members contracted Ebola while on duty at the hospital.

Dr. Eisenhut highlights the devastating impact of Ebola on healthcare workers in West Africa who lacked proper resources and protective equipment. Many contracted the virus because they did not have access to hand-washing facilities or gloves. The lack of awareness and appropriate medical practices contributed to the high mortality rate among healthcare workers.

The Evacuation

During the Ebola crisis, two missionaries, Dr. Kent Brantley and Nancy Writebol, contracted the virus and needed to be evacuated for treatment. There were concerns about bringing them back to the United States, fearing that it could lead to an epidemic. However, Dr. Eisenhut explains that these concerns were overblown.

The mode of transmission for Ebola is similar to HIV, primarily through sharing bodily fluids. As long as contacts are identified, monitored, and isolated, there is no danger to the general public. Dr. Brantley and Writebol were evacuated using a special plane initially intended for diplomatic purposes. The other missionaries who had been exposed but were not infected were evacuated on a regular jet.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

Dr. Eisenhut humbly acknowledges that the success of ELWA Hospital's Ebola preparations was not solely due to human efforts but also God's grace. While mistakes were made along the way, she attributes their ability to handle the crisis to God's guidance and protection.

In closing, Dr. Eisenhut shares her advice for those considering missionary work. She emphasizes the importance of being actively involved in one's local church, cultivating a disciplined spiritual life, and having a heart for the lost. This foundation, coupled with education and training through reputable evangelical sending agencies, will equip individuals to become effective missionaries.

Why This Matters

Dr. Eisenhut's story highlights the intersection of medical missions and evangelism during a crisis. It underscores the importance of addressing both physical and spiritual needs in communities facing significant challenges. By sharing God's love and truth alongside medical care, missionaries can make a lasting impact on individuals and communities.

Think About It

• How can we effectively address both the physical and spiritual needs of those we serve?
• What role does personal preparation and education play in fulfilling God's call in our lives?
• How can we support and uplift healthcare workers in under-resourced areas to ensure their safety and well-being?