Coming from Myanmar to the United States is a challenge--new language, new customs, new living arrangements, and new community. Ciin, a fifty-one-year Zomi refugee, made this journey more than 20 years ago. After building a new life in Nashville, learning new traditions including a new church, Ciin quietly confided to his pastor he had problems with his teeth. It was then his pastor told him about Nations Ministry and their Elder’s Coordinator, Mary, who had also called Myanmar home.

Mary scheduled a dental appointment at Interfaith Dental Clinic. During one of the many drives to appointments, she realized there may be additional health concerns Ciin had not mentioned. Before long he raised these questions, “What about if we have something not normal in our body? Will it be dangerous?” Mary assured him if you have concerns, we can go to doctors, and they will tell us.

It wasn’t long before Ciin was referred to to a surgeon at Meharry General Hospital. Ciin described his agonizing discomfort for twenty years. His diagnosis revealed an extra-large mass causing severe pain. Mary was able to obtain financial assistance so Ciin and his family would not be responsible for financial obligations. It was then she realized that although his health condition had been going on for many years, Ciin had not even discussed his pain with his family...only Mary!

On surgery day, apprehension grew, and he asked, “Can we cancel it?” With Mary’s assurance and encouragement, Ciin went through with the surgery. Later, Ciin shared with his son what he had endured for twenty years. His son and Mary immediately noticed the confidence as his constant pain had faded.

In his native language Ciin pronounced, “I am relieved. I am free. I can’t believe people are so kind.

I didn’t even know you, Mary.” In Mary’s words, “Ciin tells everyone how happy he is now. He is a new

man.

Lives are being changed. Thank you for standing with newcomers.

*His name has been changed to protect his identity.