Just returned from Guatemala on Monday, November 23rd. What a wonderful trip. Team members were; Dr. Jim Eiselt, D.O. Katy Eiselt, LPN Nancy Linder, NP Collette Meidinger, Lab Tech Dr. Anne Ptaszynski, MD. Meg Oberle, Pharmacy Luke Hermer, Pharmacy David Coughlan, Interpreter Teri Fink Peterson, Interpreter Carol Dithelm, Interpreter Bridget Coughlan Hermer, Team Leader We were able to serve over 250 people in 5 days of clinic in the villages of Pompojila, Xejuyu, Quixaya, Tierra Santa and Panamaquip, Guatemala. We stayed in the village of San Lucas, Toliman at the Casa Blanca. A favorite with MDP teams for the early morning roosters! Life at the Parish of San Lucas is good although money is tight because of the downturn in the world economy. They are busy with building a road to the new coffee project before the coffee harvest begins in January. Fr. Greg was in the States raising money and addressing some health issues so we didn't get a chance to see him. We were lucky to hear a rare talk by Chona. She spoke of the murder of her husband during the Civil War (1981) and other stories regarding the violence and life in Guatemala. I was saddened to discover that my good amigo and former orphan, Francisco, (the driver) passed away in September of stomach cancer. I was able to visit his gravesite. 'Vaya con Dios'. Our 5 days of clinic were well run by Vincente, the parish healthcare promoter. We were able to see many families and give them the health care they so desperately need. Our team was outstanding. Their hardwork, courage, compassion and joy were fantastic. I feel so blessed to be able to work for MDP. God is good! Bridget Coughlan Hermer
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Author Helen Peterson Archives
April 2010
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