Day 3
This morning’s devotional focused on an important theme: mission trips are as much about working with your team as they are about serving your patients. It was a reminder that while we came here to help others, we’re also here to support one another—to work together and serve the community.
At Las Obras, the day started early and strong. The operating rooms were full again, with teams performing hernia repairs, gallbladder removals, joint replacements, and pediatric orthopedic surgeries. The teamwork was seamless, and our day was filled with purpose.
One of my favorite stories from the day was from Apryl. A young girl ran up to her today and hugged her tightly. At first, Apryl was confused, but then the girl’s mother came over smiling and explained. Three years ago, her daughter had hip surgery here with Dr. Anderson’s team. She had found a photo of Apryl and her daughter from that time and told her that her daughter remembered her kindness. Seeing her healthy, strong, and full of life was so special to see.
Dr. Sherer mentioned how naturally everyone has worked together this week—how our visiting teams and the local staff have blended into one united group. He pointed out how willing and knowledgeable the local staff are, always ready to step in and help wherever needed.
That teamwork extended beyond our own cases. Another group working in the hospital this week ran short on supplies during a surgery. Without hesitation, our team shared supplies so they could finish their case. It was a simple act, but it captured what these missions are all about—collaboration, not competition, and everyone working toward the same goal.
Two doctors from a previous mission team flew back to Guatemala on Sunday to operate on a patient they couldn’t fit in during their original trip. Since they came alone, our team stepped up to run their OR so that they could give that patient the care they had promised. It was a reminder that this work doesn’t end when the week does and showed how much the people who volunteer care about their patients.
As the day came to an end, we looked around and realized how much this team has grown together. Every person plays a role, every act of kindness matters, and today reminded us that serving side by side—whether it’s with our patients, our teammates, or the local staff—is what makes this mission truly special.
Magdaline Kuhn, Blogger
