We wake up every day to a life of privilege and available luxury. While we might not all be able to partake in these things to the same degree, there are some principal necessities that are easy to obtain.
Things like food, clothing, and shelter are within grasp, if not by one’s own doing, then through the aid of a government structure that is willing to provide for its citizens.
Health care has been a hot topic in recent news; however, most people fail to acknowledge the very significance of having a modern health care system.
There are many places around the world where simple sterilization techniques that could prevent infection are not practiced. People in these places suffer unnecessarily with conditions that are relatively easy to control and eliminate.
A certain group of skilled U. South Alabama students have witnessed this need and decided to do what they can to make a difference.
The Christian Medical Ministry of South Alabama (CMMSA) was founded in September 2000 with the main goal of uniting health care students under a shared desire to incorporate their lives with the Christian faith.
This year marked the fourth year of one of their most selfless acts of ministry and charity. Twenty first- and second year USA medical students embarked on an annual tradition that was started by Dr. Robert McGinley, a local orthopedic surgeon.
This mission trip traveled to Central America, deep into the capital city of Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Setting up camp in Hospital Escuela, the team was there to perform orthopedic operations, educate the local doctors, and assist the community with a multitude of much needed donations.
Among the donations, food and medical supplies proved to be invaluable in a country that lacked even the most basic of things.
As the students helped form free clinics that were open to the general public, they also took the opportunity to fellowship with the local Hondurans.
The group, led by local physicians including Dr. Albert Pearsall, a USA professor, made various trips to families with severe needs. They took them food and the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Duane Baxter, director of the Christian Medical Ministry, said, “Students will see the importance of charity. It builds character and teamwork skills, and it gives them a world vision, allowing them to see the great needs of people not far from our country.
“It also gives them the opportunity to learn alongside great mentors.”
The trip lasted from June 12 to 25, and judging from the stories, it was a success for all of the students.
“This trip was such an incredible eye opener,” said Rachel Roberts, who’s in her second year at USA’s College of Medicine. “I’ve never seen such poverty, but at the same time, I’ve never seen such genuine thankfulness.”