I felt a different sentiment on our 5th day of clinic. I noticed more toddlers and teenagers attended with their mom or dad, of course all in their Sunday best and combed hair. I couldn’t help to wonder where they’ll be in 5 or 10 years and instantly teared up, even as I write this blog. I conversed with two brothers sitting in our triage area waiting to see the nurses for their vitals, one 10yrs the other 13yrs and asked if they were on summer break. They said yes then I asked what they were doing for summer. They just smiled and looked at one another. I asked in a different way and their mom answered “they work in the fields picking bananas, their dad is currently working & that’s why he couldn’t come today”. My vision blurry from more tears. After composing myself I asked what they wanted to be or do when they grew up… they want to travel & see other places their mom responded again. I asked the same thing to an older boy maybe 15yrs he said he wanted to be a lawyer. I wished all three of them & their parents success on their endeavors. My son and nephews were on my mind the entire time knowing their summer vacation couldn’t be more different. I couldn’t help to wonder if my family hadn’t migrate from Mexico, would we be in a similar situation? Lack of immediate medical attention, no access to shops or an array of career opportunities? Then realized how blessed I am being on this OWH opportunity & able to touch peoples lives. It motivated me to commit to continuously volunteer to provide affordable high quality healthcare.
My experience working on the pharmacy team has been enlightening. I learned so much about the culture and the community based on the medicine being prescribed. I had the opportunity to speak to the doctors and learn about their experience going through medical school and the challenges they faced. I can honestly say that going home I feel like this experience will be one that I will never forget. I’m looking forward to getting back and doing more to not only help this community but others facing the same issues.
Our last clinic day was bitter sweet. I built partnerships with our six doctors, two nurses, 18 volunteer team members, our lead nurse and director. Together we were able to asses over 500 patients and give kids joyful playtime even if just for a few hours. I will forever remember my work at Nicaragua and think our friends will also.
My experience working on the pharmacy team has been enlightening. I learned so much about the culture and the community based on the medicine being prescribed. I had the opportunity to speak to the doctors and learn about their experience going through medical school and the challenges they faced. I can honestly say that going home I feel like this experience will be one that I will never forget. I’m looking forward to getting back and doing more to not only help this community but others facing the same issues.
Our last clinic day was bitter sweet. I built partnerships with our six doctors, two nurses, 18 volunteer team members, our lead nurse and director. Together we were able to asses over 500 patients and give kids joyful playtime even if just for a few hours. I will forever remember my work at Nicaragua and think our friends will also.