My most recent mission trip marked my second year in South America, but more importantly it marked the 20th year that medical professionals have been traveling from the States to help the children with MME(Medical Mission Ecuador).
We were lucky to have a large group of Rehab professionals all willing and able to work the long hours. There were 5 physical therapists, 2 occupational therapists, 1 orthotist and 7 support persons who helped out in any way possible(translation, fixing wheelchairs, keeping our supplies organized and easy to find). This year we saw 222 children and adults. Since last year I was saddened to see many adults ailing because of the generally hard life, lack of medications and minimal health intervention. I was able to bring tubes of biofreeze, ibuprofen, back and knee braces and home exercises in Spanish. I also noticed that kids did not have many seating options so I brought (4) umbrella strollers and (3) hard plastic seats for young toddlers.
This year I raised money for items with a shopping party that earned $150, and had $350 in cash donations which allowed me to purchase medicine, braces for back/knee/ankle and wrists,shoes, developmental roller balls,a therapy ball, and Spanish books and toys for the orphanage. It also paid for the additional shipping costs and money given directly to families for shoes when we didn't have a pair to issue out.
Here's just one picture from the orphanage/school I had lined up to visit. Hogar Santa Maria in Ambato. It was a much nicer orphanage than I had visited last year and we saw many babies, toddlers and young children. The older children were a class. The best news of the day was when we heard that even though 4-6 children come to the orphanage/ month at least that many children are adopted from Ecuador families. Thanks to all who helped out with this mission! It was a great success.
