By Greg Allen, MD
Health care providers have an innate desire to help those in need. It’s part of why we got into this business in the first place! In our complicated health care environment it is not uncommon to experience frustration and think, “I just want to take care of kids, why does all this stuff get in the way?”
Encouragement is what I have found providing medical care for children internationally. I find myself relying on core medical principles and practices that allow me to provide the same high quality care free of the complexity. As the team lead of the upcoming Guatemala ENT trip I am very excited about being part of this team of amazing people. This initiative aims to pave the way for others at Children’s Colorado to participate in future medical missions. We want to involve the whole community! Our aim is to provide an opportunity for everyone, providers and support personnel alike, to be personally involved.
Packing party
On Saturday, Jan. 7, the team spent most of the day in basic information sessions and a “packing party”. This is an integral part of any trip of this type; getting all the supplies out and visible and then replacing stuff in various suitcases. Making sure everyone had a bag as full as possible and as close to the 50 pound limit as possible.
It was obvious that some people are much better planners than I am! What you would never know is that some of these people have NEVER been on a medical mission trip before. Everyone dove in head first and worked their tails off… we were finally a team, working together, laughing together, being nervous and anxious together. The excitement was palpable!
The team will use this forum to communicate with our friends and supporters before, during, and after our trip. We welcome your interest, support, and prayers during this time. In the coming days and weeks, you will meet and hear from other members of this remarkable team.
During the trip, updates will include photos and personal stories from team members. Please stay tuned, and check back often. Subscribe via Facebook or Twitter to get updates.