Today was another full day of surgeries—first were Rounds, where the surgeons walked the ward and spoke to their patients from the day prior. Surgeons received updates as to how the patients did throughout the night, and patients received instructions to ensure quick healing. Surgeries started soon after—continuing our forward momentum from yesterday.
In the afternoon, our team chaplain, Cassie, and I visited Casa de Fe; Many patients travel from rural areas, often with a loved one by their side, and Casa de Fe becomes their temporary home. A 100-bed guest house that has been in operation since 2003 in partnership with Faith in Practice, patients receive housing and meals at no cost as they prepare for their operations, and take time to rest and recover afterward.
We arrived as the afternoon snack started and everyone had warm mugs of Atol—a traditional drink rich in nutrients and vitamins. It’s served to help strengthen patients before surgery and support their recovery afterward. After visiting with patients, Cassie and I asked the staff if there was any work that we could help with. We were quickly put to work in the kitchen, helping staff portion out meats for future meals, and clean onions to ensure their longevity. Miguel, the afternoon chef, has been working at Casa de Fe for 4 years and has prepared meals for over 80 patients at one time. It was a powerful reminder that healing happens in many forms.
Earlier this week, Cassie and I talked about the power of community healing—how patients recovering together, supporting one another, and being in shared space can have a profound impact on their recovery. Today, we saw that firsthand—at Casa de Fe patients live in community; sharing meals, stories, and encouraging one another.
Again, thank you to our donors in helping provide support for not just surgery, but the nourishment, care, and community that make healing complete.
Meghan Griggs, Blogger
