July 5th-Day 3
We woke up to a beautiful morning eager to get to the hospital to meet our patients! We started our day at the chapel at Hilario Galindo. We were greeted by the president of the board (hospital board) Rafael Rivera, Pastor Abel Quiñonez (a local pastor at one of the churches), Ronald López a musician/singer. Pastor Quiñonez reminded us that Jesus sent out the disciples to heal, even when they did not feel prepared to do so. God gave them the power and ability to heal in the same way that He has empowered us to do surgery at HHG. We celebrated the Lord with music, song and prayer; an amazing way to start our first day of surgery!!
The nursing staff of Hilario Galindo had our first two patients ready to go. We were off and running!! Mr. Eusebio, the first patient of Dr Farrow, received a hernia repair. He is pictured here with Elizabeth RN and Margarita, an FIP volunteer interpreter. Mr. Eusebio had a large recurrent hernia that was previously repaired with a large groin incision. With the generous support of our donors, we are able to have the supplies and equipment at HHG to repair the hernia laparoscopically (using small incisions), providing a better operation and faster recovery. Essentially, we are able to do the same operations the same way we would back in Houston. We are so appreciative of the FIP staff and organization for constantly increasing the quality of care we can provide. Ms. Evelina, first patient of Dr Askenasy, had a Lap Choly, recovering in the PACU with Marcy RN and Jeannie RN. Also able to have surgery laparoscopically due to our gracious donors.
