Day 1:
Our mission began on Sunday morning the 21st with a faith based devotional lead by team leader Eric Condon. This was far from an ordinary prayer as Eric outlined the importance of community and giving, along with Dr Silva, one of our two medical leaders with his wife Dr Zertuche, explaining, “The people of Guatemala will have us questioning who the real teacher is.” Dr Silva showed that the patients of Guatemala will change us with their stories and experiences just as much as we will impact their lives. Eric finished this devotion with handing out wooden crosses from a local business called Casa De Fe. Instead of simply putting them on, we were instructed to exchange them with the person next to us. Eric went into an explanation on how God’s ultimate charity and love was sending his Son to die on the cross. By exchanging the crosses we are building the same charity and love as a community to give back, ultimately strengthening new connections.
Standing in a circle staring at faces we have never seen before felt intimidating but as the morning went on we were encouraged to socialize with new people and share our story. Through this we discovered the range of professions and gifts, from surgeons to therapists to nurses, pediatricians, students and interpreters. Everyone seemed to have a different background and connection to Faith In Practice. Curious students took the opportunity to learn from experienced doctors and nurses of all ages.
After a bumpy ride into Teculutan we were quick to unload the bus, set up, and settle in. Immediately we were greeted by a large group of volunteers from Guatemala eager to assist and welcome us. They formed lines to unload the bus, set up machines and made what could have been a chaotic experience a fun start to the mission. Many came up to us excited to meet us, smiling, asking for our names and offering aid. One guy who noticed my camera came up to me and offered some advice. He explained he had been into photography for 26 years and passed on his wisdom. After the photographer left, a little girl came up to me, embarrassing me in a tight hug while sharing her beautiful smile. Her mom called out to her as she made her way down the line hugging every volunteer. Something that seemed so simple to her touched everyone’s heart. As our volunteers combined we were reassured that the people of Guatemala were joyous to see us.
As we get a glimpse into Teculutan, its people and our team skills, we are excited for the patient interactions to unravel, gaining new experiences everyday and stories to share. We know that although aiding people we have never met in foreign country is intimidating, we have a lot to give back to these families. Some never having care like this before, we can change their lives. Stay tuned for stories on our journey.
Team 924
Monika C & Mariana S, Team bloggers
