Day 4 – Mirelez Team
May 5, 2025 – Guatemala
Today marked the official start of surgeries for our medical mission in Guatemala, and it was nothing short of impactful. The morning began in the best way possible—with a heartfelt devotional led by our team pastor, Jimmy. His message from Mark 14 reminded us all of the compassion Christ shows us and how we are called to reflect that same love to those we serve. It truly set the tone for the day.
As the first day of procedures began, the energy was high. Every team member was assigned their role, and all jumped in with readiness and willingness to work. We had twenty-six patients scheduled for today, many of whom were undergoing multiple procedures during a single surgery.
A meaningful part of our process is that each patient is prayed over before their operation. One woman, in particular, stood out—she had been extremely anxious since her consultation and even more so on surgery day. But after our team gathered around her in prayer, her demeanor shifted. She smiled—an incredible reminder of the power of faith, community, and compassion.
Among the patients, one woman underwent a major procedure involving the removal of a large abdominal mass and a hysterectomy. She had been living with significant discomfort for quite some time and was deeply hopeful for relief. We were honored to be part of her journey toward healing.
Despite the surgical teams consisting largely of first-year volunteer circulator nurses and scrub techs (with the exception of one), the flow and time management throughout the day were impressive. Everyone truly stepped up.
Meanwhile, at the wheelchair clinic, the day began unexpectedly with a bus that was supposed to bring 26 patients arriving with only 6. That gave our team a chance to get ahead on assembling chairs while waiting for the rest. One incredibly touching moment was the first children’s wheelchair being given to a joyful six-year-old girl. Her excitement was contagious as she rolled up and down the hallway, all smiles and laughter.
By the end of the day, the wheelchair team had successfully assembled and distributed 26 chairs, along with multiple walkers, and even prepped more equipment for what is expected to be a busier day tomorrow.
Surgeries ran a bit longer than expected due to a couple of unforeseen complications, but as always, our team came together. Those who completed their cases stayed behind to help finish the final ones. Six volunteers even remained afterward to care for patients in post-op, ensuring everyone was safe and comfortable before finally heading back.
It was a long day, but an incredibly rewarding one. We returned to the hotel tired but full of purpose, ready to rest and prepare for another full day ahead.
Please continue to keep our team and the patients we serve in your prayers.
Corrina Caldera, Team Blogger
