Day 1 of the clinic started bright and early, with the bus leaving at 6:45AM, and patients coming in a little after 9AM, after the experienced Team Robinson set up clinic in a facility in El Chal, about an hour outside of Poptun in the Peten. The temperature was over 90 degrees, but there were covered areas for the patients and families to wait that helped shade them from the sun. The team set up a mobility clinic where patients were assessed and wheelchairs, walkers, and canes were given out. Next to it, a lab for diabetes tests, blood tests, ear cleanings, and more was created. In indoor spaces, a gynecology clinic, via cryo clinic, general medicine clinic, and pediatric clinic were set up. Additional exam rooms for screenings and ultrasounds were built using rope and drapes. Finally, a pharmacy was organized where patients left with much needed medicines, vitamins, and even eyeglasses. The day was hectic at times. However, our talented doctors, translators, Red Hats, and volunteers worked together closely to create an organized flow of patients and make the clinic less stressful for all involved.
One in particular stood out to the team today. A six year old boy (pictured above), came into the clinic today with his mother, who told Dr. Coll that he had recently completely lost the ability to walk. Dr. Coll was able to diagnose this boy with muscle dystrophy, a rare disorder of progressive muscular weakness. With help from the mobility clinic, FIP was able to provide him a wheelchair he can use as he grows, making it easier on his mother who has had to carry him everywhere they go.
Another special moment from the day was being able to hand out stickers and balloons to excited kids. Young patients and children of patients gathered around Dr. Motagne throughout the day as she passed out animal stickers, scented stickers, and balloons. These small acts brought tremendous joy to the kids, reminding us to stop and appreciate the little things that make us happy each day.
Our day was wrapped up with a team dinner and devotional by Dr. Vogelman, who shared the importance of stepping up to the challenge of helping others. He wrapped up with a beautiful quote from St. Francis of Assisi that exemplifies the spirit we aim to embody as we head into the rest of the week-
“Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that you have received- only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage.”
Today was exciting, inspiring, and special for our team, and we can’t wait to see what the next days of clinic bring!
-Megan Gerwe
To support the Mesen Team visit: https://donate.faithinpractice.org/team/455483
