Last Clinic
The last morning devotion of the trip focused on the next generation. The team has two recent high school graduates who shared their experiences on this trip. These young people are looking forward to many more years in medical missions. In addition to them, about half of the team members on this mission are on their first mission trip.
One highlight of the day was women’s health, particularly cervical cancer screening. In Guatemala, approximately 2,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, and tragically, about half of those cases are fatal. Early detection is life-saving. We’re proud that many women coming in for gynecological appointments are agreeing to take the rapid cervical cancer screening test. For some, this is their first opportunity to receive any kind of preventative care—and it’s a critical step toward reducing preventable deaths.
We saw several compelling pediatric cases. One young boy came to us with limited mobility in his hands due to a motorcycle accident that happened over a year ago. He had never seen a doctor for his injuries. His story is a stark reminder of how long children can go without care after traumatic injuries, and how impactful even a single consultation can be.
Another young patient, a little girl with hearing loss since birth, came in with her parents. Now that she’s starting school, her hearing difficulties are affecting her learning. Her parents took this opportunity to have her evaluated by a physician, who will refer her for audiology services. For this family, the clinic represents access not just to healthcare, but to a better educational future.
In the pharmacy, the most commonly dispensed items might seem ordinary: vitamins, Ibuprofen, and Tylenol. But here, where many people perform physically demanding labor for most of their lives, these medications offer life-changing relief. Chronic pain is a daily reality for many, and something as simple as a bottle of ibuprofen can drastically improve their quality of life.
In the ultrasound department, a woman came in for her first prenatal checkup—six months into her pregnancy. Until today, she hadn’t received any prenatal care. With the help of the clinic, she’s now able to get an ultrasound and begin receiving care to help ensure a healthier outcome for her baby. These moments show how vital accessible maternal healthcare is and how far-reaching the impact can be.
One thing we’ve all noticed is the overwhelming kindness and warmth of the local people. Patients are genuinely grateful, often asking to take photos with our staff. There’s a deep sense of mutual respect and appreciation that makes every interaction feel meaningful, both to the patient and caregiver. The memories made here will last a lifetime.
Jordan Gurgiolo
Team Blogger
