In a remote village in La Sabana, a group of volunteers from the Floating Doctors organization spends two days providing medical care to the residents. Despite the lack of basic amenities like showers, the volunteers see 133 patients and treat a variety of illnesses and conditions, from lesions and diarrhea to cysts and pregnancy concerns. Dr. Geoff McCullen, an orthopaedic surgeon and professor, reflects on the challenges and uncertainties of practicing medicine in such an environment, noting the importance of being decisive in providing care.
After a long day of treating patients, the volunteers take a moment to bathe in a nearby river and reflect on their experiences. Cristina Kontogiannis, a second-year medical student, expresses gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow as a healthcare provider, citing the hands-on experiences she had during the clinic. The community of La Sabana also expresses their appreciation for the Floating Doctors’ presence, as they provide much-needed medical care for chronic diseases and emergencies.
As the team prepares to leave, they pack up their medical equipment and embark on the journey back to headquarters, feeling a sense of joy and accomplishment. The volunteers laugh and sing during the trek, grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the residents of La Sabana. The team returns to headquarters by boat, where they take a moment to relax and celebrate their successful mission by swimming in the warm waters surrounding the island.
Despite the challenges and long days, the volunteers find fulfillment in their work and look forward to returning in three months to continue providing care to those in need. Some volunteers will even travel deeper into the rainforest to visit patients like Omayra, who are unable to travel to a hospital due to their condition and financial constraints. Omayra’s father, Julian Abrego, expresses gratitude for the Floating Doctors’ dedication to providing care for his daughter, viewing their presence as a true blessing for his family.
Overall, the experience highlights the importance of providing medical care to underserved communities and the impact that compassionate and dedicated healthcare providers can have on improving the health and well-being of those in need. The volunteers from the Floating Doctors organization exemplify the values of compassion, empathy, and service, demonstrating the vital role that healthcare professionals play in making a difference in the lives of others.
