Day 7 – Mirelez Team in Retalhuleu, Guatemala
Date: May 8
Our final day of surgery began with morning devotion, reflecting on John 13:12-15. The passage served as a powerful reminder that our calling to serve, just as Jesus did, doesn’t end when we leave Guatemala. Serving others is not a temporary mission but a lifelong journey.
As this was our last day in the operating rooms, the team was determined to make every moment count. We had 21 scheduled surgeries, with several patients undergoing multiple procedures. One case stood out: a gentleman originally scheduled for a hernia repair was discovered during pre-op to have a mass on his right arm. Thanks to the attentiveness of the doctors, both issues were addressed in one operation.
A particularly special moment for the Mirelez family occurred when all four of them joined Dr. Whitehead in the OR for a gallbladder removal. It was the first time all four participated in the same surgical case—truly a milestone worth remembering.
One of the most touching highlights of the day was the visit of a former patient.
Last year, he had come in to bring his mother to the mobility clinic and ended up becoming a patient himself due to a large facial mass that had cost him his job. His only concern then had been his mother’s care. The team was able to convince him to undergo the procedure. This year, after a 3-hour journey, he returned to greet the doctors—Drs. Pizzolas, Dr. Whitehead, and the OR team—beaming with joy. He is now employed again as a baker, and though he shared the sad news of his mother’s passing, his presence reminded us of the deep, lasting impact these missions have.
The mobility clinic also witnessed memorable moments. A 17-year-old boy, nonverbal and unable to walk, was carried in by his single mother. He received a custom wheelchair. Volunteer Olga said, “Without words, you could tell he loved it.” Another heartwarming moment came when Moises, a clinic worker, brought his younger brother to receive a wheelchair. Afterward, volunteers played frisbee with him outside—a light-hearted way to close out a meaningful day.
By noon, the clinic had seen its final patient, capping off a week of incredible service:
128 patients served
113 adult wheelchairs given and assembled
2 pediatric wheelchairs
10 walkers
2 sets of crutches
Back in the OR, most procedures wrapped up by 5 p.m., but the team rallied for one last add-on surgery. As some worked on the case, others packed trunks, finished inventory, and cleaned up. In a sweet gesture, the hospital staff handed out colorful cloth bags filled with homemade candy to thank us for our work.
Once the final patient was moved to the overnight ward, we returned to the hotel to change for a special farewell dinner. The evening was filled with gratitude and celebration. Each team member received a certificate of recognition for their dedication. Heartfelt speeches followed, with many expressing deep thanks for being part of something so meaningful.
Casa de Fe’s president offered words of appreciation and an open invitation for us to return. Frito, the mission coordinator, delivered an especially moving speech. One of this year’s patients had been his own father. He emphasized how our work impacts not just patients, but entire families and communities. He offered special thanks to Jay and Sandie Mirelez for their tireless efforts in organizing these trips year after year.
With that, our mission week came to a close. Our surgical team performed 126 procedures on 93 patients in four days.
Tomorrow, we head to Antigua for some well-earned rest and reflection. Please keep our team in your prayers—for safe travels and continued healing for the patients we served.
Corrina Caldera, Team Blogger
