From Grits to Chopsticks

Recently, Susan has been suffering from a severe cough and associated chest pain.  Our neighbor quickly diagnosed the problem as “gānké” (dry cough) and suggested that Susan should take the common Chinese remedy.  He started by peeling and dicing pears:according to Chinese traditional medicine, pears add moisture to your lungs:He then measured some rock sugar, dropped it in water and simmered:
The pear chunks were added and boiled for about 15 minutes:
He told Susan to drink the hot, very sweet liquid each morning and evening:
We had already scheduled an appointment at the local international health clinic later in the week.  After the doctor did a physical exam, a chest x-ray, and a blood test, he ruled out anything serious, prescribing an inhaler to treat her bronchitis.  Total cost = $52.26 (a bit cheaper than the West!).
She’s doing better, but not completely back to normal.  Whatever the cause, we’re thankful for prayers, pears, and the inhaler.