Teenager tortured for her faith set to make 'full recovery'
On 22 August we asked you to pray for Susan Ithungu (14), who was left hospitalised and unable to walk after her father tortured her for becoming a Christian.
We are now pleased to report that Susan has been discharged from hospital and although she still needs to use a wheelchair and crutches, doctors remain optimistic that she will make a full recovery.
Susan, who was locked in a dark room by her father for six months, was kept alive by her brother Mbusa, who fed her roasted bananas and poured water through a hole under the door for her to drink. At the time of her rescue in October 2010, Susan was unable to walk or talk. According to Pastor Baluku from the Full Gospel Church, her black hair had turned yellow and she had long fingernails, sunken eyes and weighed around 3 stone.
During her eleven months in hospital, members of the Full Gospel Church in Bwera often visited and prayed with Susan. One lady, Ms Dreda, who cared for Susan throughout this time, has now offered to take her in. A divorced mother of four and also from a Muslim background, the added responsibility will be a strain on Ms Dreda's limited resources, but she is confident that the Lord will provide.
Open Doors has been taking care of Susan's immediate needs such as food, clothing, toiletries and reading material. When doctors are satisfied that Susan has fully recovered, she will go to a primary school not far from Ms Dreda's home.
Susan's father still wants nothing to do with her and no family member is willing to care for her. Despite this, Pastor Baluku says Susan is spiritually stronger, loves praying and enjoys singing hymns. "Every time I go to see Susan, I leave their place feeling greatly encouraged! She is truly an inspiration."
Open Doors has launched a writing campaign for Susan. To send her a letter of encouragement, go to www.opendoorsuk.org/write or phone 01993 885400 to order a copy of our Kidzone letter-writing Guide.
Source: Open Doors
Please pray:
1. Thank God for Susan's discharge from hospital, her spiritual well-being and her new home with Ms Dreda.
2. That Susan will flourish with Ms Dreda and that she will be able to resume her studies soon and catch up quickly.
3. That Susan's brother will stay safe and strong and that Susan's father will come to know the love of Jesus for himself.
