“Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. And always be thankful.” — Colossians 3:14-15
Today marks the beginning of patient care, and with it comes the opportunity to put our purpose into action. After the anticipation, preparation, and travel, we are finally here, ready to serve the patients and families who will become such an important part of our journey.
Our first day is about listening, learning, and preparing for the days ahead. The surgeons are spending time meeting with patients, evaluating their needs, and determining which individuals will move forward with surgery.
Each conversation and examination is an important step in creating a plan of care that brings hope and healing.
We were pleased to hear that more resources are available for pre operative testing than last year. While we had access to x-ray last year, this year we were informed that HHG now has a CT scanner as well as an ultrasound. These additions will become vital for planning surgeries and making sure that every phase of the surgeries have the most accurate imaging.
But today wasn’t just about preparing for upcoming surgeries. It was also about reconnecting with familiar faces and welcoming new ones. Our team had the opportunity to see some of our previous patients, as well as meet individuals who were coming to us for the first time. Not every visit ends with a surgery date, and that is something worth celebrating, too.
For some patients and families, the greatest gift we could give today was reassurance. After an examination and evaluation, some were able to hear the words that everything is okay and surgery is not needed. We were able to remind them that they are perfectly and wonderfully made by God, just as they are. Sometimes, healing comes not from an operation, but from peace of mind, encouragement, and knowing that nothing needs to be changed.
Behind the scenes, other members of our team are busy preparing the operating rooms, organizing supplies, checking equipment, and making sure everything is ready for the surgeries ahead. Every role matters, and every helping hand contributes to the mission we have come together to accomplish.
But today is about more than evaluations, equipment, and preparations. It’s about the people. It’s about looking into someone’s eyes, listening to their story, offering reassurance, and reminding them that they are seen, valued, and cared for.
We arrived with trunks full of supplies, hearts full of anticipation, and a shared desire to make a difference. We may have come with plans for the work ahead, but we also came with open hearts ready to serve, ready to learn, ready to grow, and ready to embrace each person we meet along the way.
As we begin this week, we are reminded that healing doesn’t happen through surgery alone. It begins with compassion, grows through connection, and is strengthened by the simple act of showing someone they are not alone. Sometimes, the most meaningful thing we can do is provide the care someone needs, and sometimes it’s simply reminding them that they are already enough.
The work has begun, and we are grateful to be here.
Here’s to a week of healing, hope, meaningful connections, and hearts expanding on both sides of the mission.
