Happy New Year, readers! Thank you for continuing to check back in with us. We're continuing to post returning reflections as written by members of our 2009 mission team. Today's comes from Tiffany Edmiston, an emergency department nurse at St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, CA:
To identify one thing that surprised me about the mission would be impossible. There were so many amazing things seen and done by each of us collectively and individually. Some occurrences were miracles and marvels while some instances were simply sad.
One experience that will replay in my head frequently is how well Andy North, Mary Carol Todd, Keri Sutton, and Olga Alvarez managed the beginning of the last clinic day. I recall the rush of urgency in mass numbers of patients that flooded through the opened fence. Our crowd control team handled the sudden situation safely and effectively. I felt that was a successful day all around. I was part of a great team and I knew it everyday.
I will also remember watching Mia work with great and genuine compassion for every one of her patients (including me). For me, Mia was an endless inspiration and one definition of our purpose and need in Guatemala.
I also need to acknowledge how productive, dedicated and competent every member of the mission was from beginning to end. Each and every one of us settled into our assigned roles with ease and inventiveness. There was a constant feeling of positive flow as we adapted to our different workdays. All of us worked ceaselessly for the poor, the sick, the people at the Basilica, the disenfranchised people, the grateful ones and our colleagues around us. I am proud and honored to have been part of a gallant and spiritual group.
My feelings surrounding the trip before, during, and after run deep…they are special reminders of love for what we can do to help others, including ourselves. It was definitely a life-changing event that has enhanced and strengthened my work ethic back here at home. The only difference now is I miss all of my Guatemala colleagues and friends. I easily recognize how fortunate I was to have had an exhilarating experience in Guatemala with such fine and fun people.
Comments