Cambodia is one of the world’s poorest countries, with more than 40% of its people living on less than $2/day (UNDP). A legacy of the Khmer Rouge genocide is widespread trauma and mental illness. Within society corruption is endemic and mistrust of government is widespread. Infant mortality rate is among the highest in the world, and malnutrition affects most Cambodian children (UNICEF). First-world chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension are reaching near epidemic levels. Estimates of Christian presence is 1-2% of the population in this Buddhist/Animist land.

I long for every person to recognize that God has created them with inherent dignity, value, and worth. I yearn for people to encounter Jesus through his word and engage with scripture in fresh ways. I hope for neighbors to be empowered to identify their gifts and be equipped for leadership in their own communities. I believe this will result in restoration and holistic transformation on a personal, communal, and societal level.

I am utilizing my background in nursing by working closely with the Sunrise project in Kampong Cham province. Sunrise has provided compassionate care for those living with HIV/AIDS since 2001. Now, we are adapting to meet the needs of a changing society by launching a community-based diabetes education program.