Lucrecia and the team that cared for her.
Lucrecia’s New Voice
Hope, healing, and the power of one smile
In a small town in Guatemala, a young girl named Lucrecia underwent a surgery that would change her life forever. Born with a condition that impaired her ability to speak, she had never known what it felt like to communicate clearly. But thanks to the care provided by Dr. Pogo that changed.
Dr. Matthew Pogodzinkski (Pogo) is an ENT surgeon in Wisconsin, as well as a Faith In Practice Board Member and Team Leader. Dr. Pogo first served with Faith In Practice as a surgical resident alongside his father, Dr. Anthony Pogodzinksi, who is also a surgeon. To distinguish the two surgeons, they became affectionately nicknamed “Pogo Grande” (Anthony) and “Pogo Pequeño” (Matt). After serving on nearly 20 trips, Dr. Matt Pogo began leading his own team in 2021, providing much needed ENT and General surgeries to patients at Hilario Galindo hospital in Retalhuleu. This first team that Dr. Matt Pogo led was also the last of Dr. Anthony Pogo’s 24 trips as he transitioned into retirement and passed the reins of mission service to his son. Dr. Matt Pogo has led multiple trips to Retalhuleu and Antigua. Along with his wife and Team Administrator, Beata Pogodzinski, Dr. Pogo continues to lead annual trips to the Obras Sociales hospital in Antigua, impacting the lives of Guatemalan patients like Lucrecia.
During the most recent Pogo Surgery trip, Lucrecia received a life-changing frenectomy, a surgical procedure to repair her tongue, which would allow her to speak clearly for the very first time.
For a child, the ability to communicate without impediment is more than a medical milestone — it’s a gateway to learning, confidence, and connection. The impact on Lucrecia’s future is immeasurable. With her newfound voice, she can express her thoughts, thrive in school, and build relationships that once felt out of reach. This isn’t just healing — it’s the unlocking of a bright, limitless future.
But what truly moved the team wasn’t just the medical success — it was Lucrecia herself.
She awoke from surgery with the radiance of an angel, full of energy, charm, and resilience. Her strength in recovery left everyone in awe.
Then came a moment that will live in the hearts of all who witnessed it. Lucrecia’s mother entered the room, saw her daughter smiling, and burst into tears. Tears of joy. Tears of relief. Tears of overwhelming love.
Her simple smile — filled with emotion and gratitude — said everything.
“The love you take is equal to the love you make.”
— The Beatles
That quote resonates deeply with our mission. Every act of giving, every hour volunteered, every dollar donated — it all comes full circle. In giving to others, we find ourselves transformed. The love we offer returns in unexpected, powerful ways.
Moments like these are why Dr. Pogo and the Pogo team continue to serve the people of Guatemala. These are not just medical missions. They are acts of love — true examples of hope and healing.
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