Friday, September 30, 2022

Clinic in Mactzul V

It was off and running again this morning after breakfast.  

A group of us headed out to Mactzul V.  We had patients waiting as we quickly set up clinic.

 
We are primarily here to see children who are in the ABC Program but we will not turn others away.

We had four health care providers today.

Anna is a professional nurse, who has worked for Health Talents for several years. We are fortunate that she is able to speak Spanish and K'iche'.

 
This is Dr. Ron's first time with us and we hope that he returns again.
 
Also with us was Mendy. Mendy graduated a few years ago from the Harding Nurse Practitioner Program.  I always love having that group come down.  They are always so well prepared.
 
Also with us was Dr. Charlie from Hennessy, Oklahoma and Jason translated for him.
 
It was a good day and uneventful.  The roads were clear for us and we had no troubles with the travel.
Tomorrow, will be our third day of clinic.  
 
The week passes so quickly.
 


Thursday, September 29, 2022

Chichicastenango Jornada!

This was a day that I have been waiting for!!

I returned from The States on September 21 and then traveled to Montellano to get back in the swing.

Within a few days, it was time to go to the airport to get a group that always comes down in September to help us with our ABC Clinics.  It is usually a small group, which makes logistics easier. They are also an energetic group, so they accomplish the work well.

Having a group like this, is another step in getting back to pre-covid days and it is very warming. Yes, we continue to be careful and wear masks but we are able to enjoy each other's company again.  We can eat together, laugh and hug. It was so good to see everyone!

We have three days of clinic lined up........and this is where it begins for the team.  Kemmel, introducing the Guatemalan staff to everyone and giving us the plan for the day.

We headed out in two directions. One group went to Clinica Caris and the remainder of us went to Paxot III.

Before long, we were setting up and seeing patients. Mike started checking children in and doing vital signs.
 
The consults were started. Sometimes the communication can be a challenge, going from English to Spanish and then to Kiche..........but is is very helpful to have a tri-lingual interpreter. Mendy seeing patients with her translator.

 
Dental was busy as usual too.  Dr. Haller and Julie have been a team for years.  This is Dr. Haller's 51st trip to Guatemala!  What an accomplishment!
 
 
 Dr. Anna is with us again.  She is Lisa's sister and it is good to see her and Dr. Charlie with us.

 
Bode cleaned dental instruments and keep everything in circulation.
 
When we finished for the day, it was back to the hotel for dinner and a devotional.  Gracias a Dios for a wonderful, safe day!


Saturday, September 24, 2022

HAPPY 65th ANNIVERSARY, MOM AND DAD!!

When I was in the states, we celebrated my parents 65th wedding anniversary.  Not many can claim that milestone in life. I am happy for them!! I am also grateful for being raised in a Christian home and for the examples that they have been for me.

 
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, MOM AND DAD!! May you continue to celebrate!!




 

Friday, September 23, 2022

Need for Sun and Sand!!

My desire for sun and sand has been growing for a couple of years now.  I was hesitant to fly with the whole pandemic issue and not enjoying having my nariz invaded by a cotton swab. Even though I continue to be careful, there was burning need for blue water.

Therefore, mom and I headed to Punta Sam for about a week.

 We had been warned about being kidnapped, so I asked mom to give me her best kidnapped face.
 
Of course, if it had happened, this would NOT have been funny........so, I am thankful.

We stayed at a nice resort and it was very pretty at night.
 
 
It was on the ocean and convenient.
 
There were different patios with pools and furniture.
 
 
Our room had a balcony with a private hammock.
 
There was a toy island that we were able to swim to.  We climbed up on it but some guys did not like that.......never understood why, since I had seen many others out on it. When he continued to blow his whistle, I just claimed I did not understand whistle language.

 
We went down the beach in search for ceviche and we found it.......it was soooooo good.  They had more hammocks and trees to enjoy.
 
The best thing about an adventure ending.......there is now time to begin to plan the next one!! I am sure it will also involve blue water and sand!!