I woke up early today, full of anticipation. It was our first clinic day in Maca, and before clinic we were hoping to see condors — a pretty amazing way to start the morning.
Jake led devotions at 6:15, grounding us before the day began. Breakfast followed at 7:00 — and once again it was delicious: avocados, scrambled eggs, cheese, fresh bread, and coffee. We are certainly being well cared for.
We left for the beautiful 40-minute drive toward Maca, continuing another 19 km to the condor viewing point along Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking — ancient terraces carved into the mountainsides and, in the distance, a volcano gently releasing steam into the morning sky.
At the canyon overlook, we were thrilled to see two magnificent Andean condors soaring effortlessly on the thermals. They are enormous and graceful — though unfortunately I didn’t manage a great photo! Still, it was one of those “be present and take it in” moments.
After that, it was back to Maca to begin clinic.
I was paired with Felicity, a pre-physio student, who was such a help. She took blood sugars and gave patients small printed photos — a simple gesture that brought so many smiles. The cases were varied, but we saw many elderly patients who still work long hours in the fields despite significant arthritis. Their resilience is humbling.
In the afternoon, I did a home visit. A woman had been receiving hip injections but had fallen a year ago and has not walked since. After examining her, I suspect she may have suffered a fractured hip that never healed properly. We encouraged her to come to Chivay in two days when the physiotherapist will be there, and we hope we may be able to provide a wheelchair.
Riley gently suggested we pray for her before we left. As we prayed, her husband was moved to tears. It was such a sacred moment — a reminder that sometimes what people need most is to feel seen, heard, and cared for.
We saw a few more patients, including her husband, who was clearly carrying a great deal of stress.
At the end of clinic, we gathered together and sang the Doxology — a beautiful way to close our first day.
Back at the hotel, I was able to speak with Ric, which was so lovely. After a delicious supper, a few of the girls suggested Dutch Blitz — and of course I was keen to join! Laughter around a card table is good medicine after a full day.
Later, I joined an impromptu worship session with Adrianna and Mosheh. Singing together at the end of such a meaningful day felt like the perfect close.
What a day — condors, clinic, prayer, laughter, worship. Grateful beyond words to be here in Peru.