Dora Saga

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We are saddened to learn that our friend Dora Saga died early Wednesday.  Our hearts go out to her husband, Dr. Mufwimi Saga, their children, and to all the people of Ilula Hospital and the Iringa Diocese who mourn her death.


From left, Dr. Mufwimi Saga, Dora Saga; far right, Kari Hurley.


Shepherd of the Valley members first met Dora and Dr. Saga in August, 2002, when Dr. Randy and Kari Hurley visited the [then] Ilula Health Center.  Above, Kari delivered midwife kits to the health center.  At the time, Dr. Saga was the longest serving doctor onsite, and Dora served as the Nurse Matron [Nurse in Charge] for the facility.

Through the years, the Saga family welcomed many of our travelers into their home for a meal and a tour of the health center that now has grown into a district hospital.


Dora (left) visited Minnesota in 2010.

We were so pleased to have the Sagas as our guests in the fall of 2010, along with Rev. Naftal and Angelina Ng'amillo.  Below, she introduced our children to Tanzanian customs and clothing.


For the past year, Dora had been treated for lymphoma and by all accounts had been doing well.

Our prayers are with Dr. Saga, Dora's three adult sons, daughter, and granddaughter.  In the words of one of her friends, "she leaves behind a million patients and friends."




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