Today marked our second day of surgery. We had a great devotion period this morning about forgiveness and it prepared all of us for the day ahead. A team photo was taken and we all made our way to the hospital. Yet again the day was filled with heartwarming stories. Though we did watch some surgeries today we wanted to experience the post-operative room and recovery room.
We started our day in the patient recovery room checking on patients that were operated on the day before. One of our cases was a total knee replacement. This lady had travelled 9 hours to come receive this treatment. When translating we learned quickly that she only spoke Mayan though it was very similar to spanish. She told us that she was in pain but needed to get home because the bus was leaving soon. Only 24 hours after an intensive surgery she did not want to miss her bus. We then gave her pain medicine though we found out after that she had never received any medications before in her life. Later that day we checked on her and she had a massive smile on her face and was still emphasizing that she could not miss her bus home.
Next we did a post-operation run down with the wife of a man that received a total knee replacement. Our surgeon told the wife that we were honoured to be treating her husband. After telling her this she was in disbelief. Responding with “say that again I am in disbelief” tearing up she shook each person’s hand in the room saying thank you so much multiple times to everyone. The emotion was contagious motivating each member of the team more.
Next we walked through many of the Ob/ Gyn cases that were done yesterday. We ran into a patient whose friend was able to speak english. She told us the work we are doing has given these patients a second life. If these surgeries were not done she said some of these women would only have two years to live maybe three. What you have done has given them hope. Hearing these words is exactly what reinforces the reason why we are on this mission.
Lastly was the most moving story of the day a patient interview was done with this individual although he had four bladder stones and an enlarged prostate. Unable to live a life without the anxiety behind this. He also shared a story to us before he answered what this procedure has done for him. He said in the past years he had someone close to him betray him and he has been unable to not be angry each day he wakes up. Though after this surgery he has realized that there is good in this world. He said he now forgives his friend for his actions and wants to find God again.
I believe that this story is a great way to end the day because it really illustrates what these trips do to the many Guatemalan people. Rather than just treating their ailments these surgeries provide a second life to the many lives that have been changed.
Ross Roloson, Blogger
