Rick Sacra, a missionary doctor for SIM (Society for International Ministries) has expressed his interest to return to Liberia to continue medical mission work after successfully receiving treatment for the Ebola virus he contracted months ago.
According to a statement by SIM USA, the 52-year-old missionary doctor from Holden, Massachusetts will return to Liberia on January 15, and work on SIM's ELWA hospital in Morovia. He is reported to stay in the country for a month.
However, Sacra will not be treating Ebola patients this time, but patients who are suffering from malaria and other 'chronic health issues' such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
"I am feeling well physically, and it seems the Lord is opening the door for me to return to regular ministry trips to Liberia," said Sacra in an interview. "My physician colleagues are working very hard, keeping ELWA Hospital open for a wide range of patients... I hope to be able to lighten their load, providing both compassionate care to our patients, as well as contributing in some small way to rebuilding and refreshing the staff...' he added.
In August, just when the Ebola crisis was beginning to get worse, Sacra went to Morovia to treat patients. Within six days of treating patients with the deadly virus, the missionary doctor contracted the disease and was immediately transported to the University of Nebraska Medical Center to receive treatment.
The treatment was successful, and will allow Sacra to continue his medical mission work in Liberia beginning next year.