A Mexican grandmother's face lights up when clearly seeing grandchildren for the first time after cataract surgery! Last month, a Nepalese father was grateful when the doctor cleaned up his daughter's cuts before infection had a chance to set in. These are just two of the countless memories OBI medical volunteers have taken part in creating. OBI has provided over 251,300 free medical services in more than 21 countries around the world.
During typical one to three-week missions, general medical, dental and surgical services are provided to those in need. Volunteer teams range in size from 8 to 200, depending on the scope of the mission and services to be provided.
Working in conjunction with host country health care professionals, OBI medical teams identify and treat patients who would otherwise go without basic medical services. Professional health care seminars are also sometimes taught by OBI volunteers. By exchanging information, both national medical professionals and team members grow in practical knowledge. OBI not only provides volunteer medical professionals, but also medicines and supplies during missions.
Residing in Kentucky, optometrist Lance Haluka has been on missions to Nicaragua and Kenya with OBI. Before leaving for Mexico this week he stated, "I'm just thankful for another opportunity to serve God, what ever His will is for this trip."
Never having been on a medical mission of any kind before, nurse Ophelia McClung is participating "because it is an opportunity to serve others and also to serve the Lord."
This year's mission schedule is pretty full! Just this past February, volunteers provided over 11,800 medical services to the people of Nicaragua and more than 1,700 Nepalese received medical and optical services in May.
Take a look at the following opportunities:
- August 4-18: The South Vietnamese have a wide-range of medical needs. One volunteer specializing in hospital administration and another in optometry are needed. Also, one nurse capable of assisting an ENT in surgery and training Vietnamese nurses is still being sought!
- October 20-November 3: Travel to the continent of Africa and assist the people of Nigeria with dental, optical, and general medical services. Two pharmacists, one optometrists, and one general surgeon are still needed to complete this mission's team!
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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