Day 1
Today marked the beginning of a journey that has been months in the making—and one that we know will leave a lasting impact on everyone involved.
Our team of 53 volunteers—surgeons, nurses, translators, pharmacists, a chaplain, and support staff—arrived in Antigua this afternoon under a warm Guatemalan sun. Spirits were high, despite the long travel day, with a little added good nerve energy in the air. For some, like me, this is their first mission trip. For others this is the start of another year with no less enthusiasm and excitement than in the first years. But for all of us, it’s a chance to serve with open hearts and willing hands.
This year, I’m told, is a change to the normal itinerary as we stayed in Guatemala City. After settling into our rooms some gathered at the outside lounge area for an unofficial meet and greet. We started the process of getting to know our fellow volunteers. It was interesting to find out everyone’s backgrounds, all the different places they were traveling from and what allocated tasks assignments will be while here in Guatemala.
This evening, we gathered at the onsite restaurant Fuego and enjoyed a wonderful spread of local cuisine. Great food with equally enjoyable new and old friends was a perfect way to finish our long travel day.
Tomorrow, we will have more traveling to do. A relatively short bus ride to our destination of Casa de Fe, Retalhuleu, Guatemala. Once there, we hope to help as many as possible. We are humbled, ready and grateful to serve this amazing cause.
Please keep our team in your prayers as we begin our week of surgeries and clinics. May God bless the hands of those preforming the operations, and the endeavors of all on our mission.
Corrina Caldera, Team Blogger
