August 1, 2008 

Dear Friends of Walter and Marian, 

Like you, I am shocked by the news of the terrible events (see below) that occurred during the invasion and armed robbery in Walter and Marian’s home.  The Lord certainly protected them from a much more serious and potentially deadly outcome for which we praise the Lord and breathe a sigh of relief. 

I have had a number of conversations with Walter since the incident and Walter is making good progress overcoming the physical trauma he experienced at the hands of the robbers.  However, the more difficult struggle is the emotional wounds--the very real pain of coping with the re-occurring fears and anxiety these situations leave in their wake.  It is hard for Walter and Marian to sleep at night and they fear for their children.  Any little sound triggers a cascade of memories that bring flashbacks of that life threatening event.  I would urge you to focus your prayers for Walter and Marian on their emotional healing as these wounds will take much longer to heal.  

Of utmost importance is the need to protect them physically by repairing the damage to their home and improving the security around their property (this will also assist in the emotional healing process for them).  Over the years, Walter and I have had conversations about his safety as he dealt with the projects out in the Volta region, but Walter has very rarely discussed personal needs surrounding security of his home in Accra.  I have asked Walter to give me a cost to repair the damage and bring the security features to the level required to protect his family. 

The wall around their home needs major renovation on two sides and heightened on the other two sides.  Once that is completed, razor wire needs to be secured to the top of the wall.  Three entry doors in their house need to be replaced and the framing repaired.  They are also going to change them from wood to metal.  In addition there is a small building on the property where some of the children sleep that has several doors that need to be replaced to meet security concerns.   

There was a laptop and cell phones that were stolen that need to be replaced.  Walter has secured estimates at $13,500 to $14,000. 

Unfortunately, because of the crime rate in Accra, having homeowners insurance is out of reach for most people, including Walter.  Would you consider sending a special gift that Walter can use to take the prudent steps necessary to protect his wife and family?  Your gift will also assist in their healing process as restoring a sense of security will go a long way in helping to overcome the fears they are experiencing. 

Please continue to check our website for updates from Walter.  Whatever you can do will be deeply appreciated and your continuing prayers are critical.  God Bless you. 

In His Service,  

LaDoyt “Rody” Rodeheaver                                                                                                   

President/CEO, I. N. Network USA