One thing I have learned again about these trips. It is beyond difficult, almost impossible, for the people with whom we work in country to conceive of the response to the provision of free medical care. Manantiel De Vida is no different. When we walked into the clinic yesterday, there were 100 people already waiting.
Becky Fernandez addressed the crowd in Spanish and discussed the plan for the day to see as many patients as possible in an orderly fashion. She was fantastic. I wish I could have understood all she said to the people. She was charming, funny, sincere, and earnest in her expression that everyone understands that the care provided by the doctors is done as an expression of God's love - - and that we would do the best we can. She had them laughing with a reference to the victorious Costa Rican soccer team, and told them not to get mad at the women doing the registration lines since they were just doing what they had been instructed. She pointed at me and said, "He is the guy you can get mad at since he's in charge." Everybody laughed. Her comments and work in triage kept everyone in smiles all day long.
My point is that until you see the response of the people to these clinics, you can never fully prepare for the demand on these services. That is why the first time clinics are always great learning experiences and full of surprises. Some might see it as adaptive chaos. They simply could not be done without a strong confidence that ultimately God is moving through these clinics to show His love for these people. And they could not be done without a great team of outstanding individuals who are willing to work hard to provide great care. In our case this week, about 1,000 people were served.
We learned this week, that there is a three year wait to see a government Ophthalmologist. This explains the high demand for optical services in our clinic. Dr. Larry and his team did an incredible job providing high quality eye care. Dr. Larry, Heather, Ryan, Lindsey, and Jonilee did not have a quiet moment the entire week. The lines of patients was CONSTANT! Dr. Larry did a great job training and leading his team. They all provided astonishing service!
The medical providers also worked very hard. Thoughout the days, you would hear of different patients who were provided care, some of which was truly transformative, all of which was deeply appreciated. Dr. Nick, Dr. Waldo, Dr. Kraeger, Dr. Neuhoff, Jack, Sophie, Matt, Nadine, Amber, Julie, Sue, Jeff, Dr. Sheryl all together saw tons of patients. It was really amazing how quickly the lines moved as whole families were seen through the clinic. There are hundreds of stories and memories that have certainly changed our lives.
Dr. Dan spoke at the Main College of Medicine in San Jose yesterday. He did a fantastic job and was very well received. He was made a Diplomat of the Medical College of Costa Rica in appreciation of his serving as a visiting lecturer from UWSP. Ask him to show you his certificate/diploma. It is impressive - - and represents many new friends/colleagues and invitations for future educational opportunities.
MaryBeth, Beth, Deb, Ann Marie, Phil and Angelina were fantastic with crowd control. There were hundreds of meaningful interactions and connections with Costa Ricans. They helped the clinic flow smoothly.
Today is culture day. The beach, the market, the jungle, and a final team meeting/reflection session at sunset on the ocean will cap a great week.
Steve S.
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