Nicaragua Mission

We are on day 9 of the mission and it has definitely been an unforgettable experience. Life on the ship gets a bit tough at times because of the tight quarters and inability to “escape” for privacy. However, the military personnel as well as the other civilians have all been extremely welcoming and their passion for humanitarian is contagious. On the days that we go to the clinical sites, the buildings are extremely hot and it does get exhausting at times. On the other hand, our sacrifice is nothing compared to what the natives experience on a day-to-day basis. The natives have deeply shared their appreciation for the care that we are able to provide for them. They treat us as if we are “royalty” and they cherish all of the advice that we have to offer. I have been fortunate to care for and educate many families about basic dietary/nutrition needs as well as disease process and primary prevention. Much of which we take for granted in the US. It is amazing to see the natives standing in line for hours in the hot sun and/or rain just to have an opportunity to get a few moments of “quality care” from the Americans. It is also sad when we encounter patients with significant health problems that we identify, and then have to refer back to their host nation’s providers for follow up. I often wonder if they feel “disappointed” that they are placed back into the same local healthcare system (or lack thereof). Although, I wish we could address more of the major concerns, it is definitely rewarding to see the impact that we make on so many others. Just the simple courtesy and respect that we give to our patients is enough to make a lasting lifelong impression for those that are less fortunate! Until next time……