Today was the first of 7 days that we are able to experience the healthcare of Guatemala. When I asked Ernie what the healthcare situation is like here in La Union, he told me that the nearest clinic is about 15 minutes away but the clinic is staffed with a nurse who comes maybe twice per week. Now that we had time to recollect about our day in the clinic/school, we realize how much we can appreciate our healthcare. Most of these individuals, kids and adults, that we assessed have situations that possibly could improve with a little education for the family and of course further resources. But how do we get those resources to them? The kids and parents that we saw had multiple issues that ranged from a simple headache to pneumonia to scabies to a child who was not able to get enough food because of his mothers own health. With the donations of monetary and medicinal value, we were able to reach many, many families and we want to thank you for that.
After being here in Guatemala, even for the one day, we can realize how fotunate we are to have the access to the healthcare and resources that are at our fingertips. Thank you to all for everything that you have done to help us in this mission!
Sincerely,
The FILS Medical Team
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After having been to a community hospital in Bwindi, Uganda, East Africa, I experienced similar impressions. Basic health care and nutrition including public health/education makes so much difference to those who have basically nothing. Our own health care system seems almost luxurious compared to that in Uganda and I am sure in Guatamala as well. I felt almost embarrassed when I returned to my own comfortable hospital at Children's Hospital of Wisconson. I respect you all very much for your most excellent work you are doing there, even though your living conditions I am quite sure are not ideal :)
ReplyDeletewe really don't know how lucky we are. So proud of you guys!
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