Medical Missions

[RkyMtnHigh 0]

Has anyone gone on a medical mission? If so, how long were you gone? What country? What was your role? Was it expensive or did the Program cover your expenses?

There is an opportunity next month for me to sign up for an upcoming medical mission and I know they'll share all of the pertinent info at that time, but I'm just curious before that time.

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[kbordson 8]

Do it. Do it. Do it!!!!



Absolutely WONDERFUL experience.

I went to Guatemala for two weeks in 2002 and then Peru for a week in 2005

[RkyMtnHigh 0]

You were exactly who I wanted to PM about the idea, but thought perhaps there are more medical professionals on here who could also share their experiences.

What was it like for you? What was so wonderful? I know that just helping others in need would be satisfying enough for me, but...I'm just curious if you had any surprises to your expectations or what?

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[kbordson 8]

The different cultures - totally "broke" financially, no expensive shoes or fancy stuff.... but a lot more relaxed and "happy" seeming. And most of the ones we saw were very appreciative - of us, of each other... Maybe I just was there long enough to be impressed and enchanted (honeymoon phase) and had I been there longer, I would have a different impression.... but I don't think so.

Also, the group that I went with, we worked hard and played hard.

In Guatemala, we went and saw Tikal.
In Peru, side trip to the Andes


Suprises.... I'm not as young as I used to be... There were some times that I was EXHAUSTED.

[RkyMtnHigh 0]

thanks!

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[steveorino 7]

I've been on three mission trips -- one to El Sazul orphanage in Mexico, the other two were in Costa Rico ... Cimmarrones, & Limon.

The best of experiences IMHO. Do it if you can!

Have fun too Katee!

steveOrino

[dbattman 0]

I spent a month in Guyana on the Rupununi in Region #9. It was a blast- very physically challenging, not much fun at times when I was there but looking back I'd go again.

I would be prepared to pay your own way every step and carry enough currency (discretely, of course) that you can cover anything unexpected that might come up (not everyone takes US money, contrary to popular belief). Your truck might break down and you need to hire a local transport to drive you to the next town, for example. These groups try to do their best but there are no guarantees. I know a group that finished their route early and had to wait five days for the transport at the pickup point with no rations left.

Pack your own staples (with regard to weight) and water purification (a lot of the pumps really are junk- chemical purification backup is a must). As far as medical gear, do not assume you will have it when you get there and bring it if you need it.

[LisaH 0]

Go for it hun! It will be a great experience.

Post pics and details when you get home.

Be yourself!
MooOOooOoo

[RkyMtnHigh 0]

Mid-October, I'll be heading up to Ashville,NC for the 10 hour (CME) course and finding out more details about the when and where of the upcoming mission.

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[LisaH 0]

Quote

Mid-October, I'll be heading up to Ashville,NC for the 10 hour (CME) course and finding out more details about the when and where of the upcoming mission.

Follow through with it.

Be yourself!
MooOOooOoo

[freethefly 6]

sounds like a cool opertunity to really help someone

"...And once you're gone, you can't come back
When you're out of the blue and into the black."
Neil Young