After Living Water CT opened two primary schools in Akot, John was hired as a school nurse. He had received some limited medical training while he was in the military. His job performance proved to be acceptable, but he was frequently absent. On one occasion he was missing for over a month, without informing anyone of his whereabouts.
I learned later that John had a problem with alcohol. He did eventually return to work and was very remorseful about his actions. He returned to work for LWCT and had no further problems.
The following year we were able to schedule Machiek for surgery at Samaritan’s Purse annual cleft clinic again. John accompanied his son to Juba. After the successful cleft repair surgery Machiek’s name was changed to Jacob. John rededicated his life and became a soldier for Christ. He became a model employee. I received so many reports from parents and staff about how compassionate he was, and that he went far beyond his job description to care for the children and staff’s health needs, making follow up home and hospital visits.
The last time I saw John he looked unhealthy. I requested that he be taken for a medical exam. On April 22 I received word that John has passed away in a hospital in Rumbek, the state capital.
Young Atheen now has 7 children to care for, and she is pregnant. She and the children have left Akot to live with her mother in Paloch.
This situation breaks my heart, but I reassured that John died as a soldier of the cross and he is victorious over his enemy.
Please honor this loving father by praying for his widow and his 8 children.
Your Sister in Christ,
Ann
“The Lord watches over the alien and sustains the fatherless and the widow.” Psalm 146:9

