With just three days remaining of their 2-week mission in Managua, Nicaragua, OBI's international volunteer team has provided over 7,900 medical services so far!

In their first week alone, 4,685 Nicaraguans received free medical services including dental, medical, and optical exams at a temporary clinic. Volunteer surgeons also conducted 44 intricate neurosurgery, OB/GYN, and orthopedic procedures in two local hospitals.

"It's very obvious the majority of the people choose to provide food for their families over repairing their teeth," commented Dentist Jim Hesser. "Most have lived with dental pain since they got their teeth... for some of these people, it's been seventy years."

Due to this month's earthquake in El Salvador, approximately a half a dozen El Salvadorian volunteers planning on coming to Nicaragua were called to help their countrymen and unable to join OBI. The local Nicaraguan medical community stepped in and has in turn helped many more people receive care in the clinic.

Amidst the continuous activity at the clinic last Wednesday, Nicaragua's First Lady Maria Fernanda Flores de Alemán stopped in to look around and passed out treats to the children. "Her visit was an encouragement to the patients as well as the clinic staff," said Anna Carter, working as a support person in the clinic pharmacy.

As the team puts in 12 to 14 hour days, the hundreds of poverty stricken people waiting in line make them want to continue. "It is better to give than receive," reflected Mexican Dr. Maria Fernandez. "And this week, we have received more than we have given."

Come back and continue to see what exciting things are happening in Managua, Nicaragua!

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Be a part of OBI's ongoing medical relief efforts by making an online contribution to help those suffering from extreme poverty and sickness.

 

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