Sanitarium Work in Ireland by J. J. Bell

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 26, 1907

_Sanitarium Work in Ireland_

By J. J. Bell

For three years and a half the sanitarium work in Ireland was carried on in a terrace house on a noisy thoroughfare of the city of Belfast. The work was started there in November, 1902. Although in many respects we were very poorly situated for resident patients, yet the Lord blessed the work, and many who before knew nothing of our system of treating disease, became our fast friends.

While in Belfast, we were constantly on the lookout for better quarters where the work could be carried on more in harmony with what God has outlined as the right way to conduct our institutions.

After much time had been spent in seeking a location, it was finally decided that we should take the property where we are now settled near Rostrevor, on a perpetual lease, with the option of giving it up at the end of the first three years.

We are situated in the famous Mourne Mountain district, about midway between Belfast and Dublin. The location has been described as one of the most charming in Ireland. In front is Carlingford Lough, an inlet of the Irish Sea, while all around are the Mourne Mountains. The property consists of about one hundred thirty acres of nicely wooded park and mountain.

The institution is situated about four hundred feet above the lough, and will accommodate from twelve to fifteen patients. To the rear is a second building, used formerly as stables. This has been connected with the main building by a corridor, and the stables changed to very convenient and commodious bath and treatment rooms. These and part of the main building are heated with steam, and all throughout are lighted with electricity. As we have been here only a little more than one year, it is difficult to say much about the progress of the work. During the summer season the institution was more than well filled, and the patronage exceeded our expectations.

Although situated one and one-half miles from the nearest village, and nearly three miles from the nearest railway station, yet we have had a very fair patronage of outside patients coming in for treatments. And many of these belong to the most wealthy and titled families of the district.

We can say that the good hand of God has prospered the work in spite of our many failures. Some of our patients became interested in the health work, and later accepted the truth; others have accepted the message while with us.

The present staff of workers consists of one fourth-year lady nurse, two third-year lady nurses, one third-year male nurse, one first-year lady nurse, one first-year male nurse, and one doctor.

J. J. BELL, M. D.