The last two days of our trip put our vehicles to the test as we traveled on treacherous dirt roads through dense forest to one of the most distant clinics of the week.
At Clinica Tortuga, we spent the day ensuring that over 200 local people received general consultations for a variety of health issues, dental cleanings, breast exams, and PAP smears.
During our visit, we excised an abscess which a 60-year old patient had lived with for over a year. Our dental hygienists worked as a team to extract a tooth that was causing daily pain to an 84-year-old. They also passed out hundreds of toothbrushes, floss and lip balm samples. Our pharmacists made sure necessary prescriptions were filled and helped reinforce the proper dosage for a number of different medications.
On our last day of clinics, we returned to Las Pilas. Patients there were receptive and gracious. We even received a welcome performance from a local dance team that showcased Nicaragua's traditional folklore. We also had a chance to re-connect with past patients, in particular, a young boy named Carlos. Carlos returned to our clinic for a dental cleaning for the 3rd year in a row, and then spent the rest of the day not far from sight because he wanted to make sure he could say goodbye.
It was also on our last day that we met some of our youngest patients.
Although we're excited to be home with friends and family, we've definitely left a part of ourselves in Nicaragua. Such a beautiful place, with beautiful people, that couldn't receive our love without yours.
Thanks to the amazing volunteers from the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children for their help, support and friendship. We wish you the best and hope to keep in touch.
Special thanks to everyone who donated to make this trip a success. Without your generosity, love and encouragement, this past week wouldn't have been possible.
We look forward to "GivingMore" next year!
Thanks to the amazing volunteers from the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children for their help, support and friendship. We wish you the best and hope to keep in touch.
Special thanks to everyone who donated to make this trip a success. Without your generosity, love and encouragement, this past week wouldn't have been possible.
We look forward to "GivingMore" next year!