Dear Pam,

 

Our eye care mission trip was a huge success!  The people of Malingua Pamba were very kind, and welcomed us by shaking our hands and sprinkling us with rose petals.  They also performed a native song and dance to show their appreciation.  Paulino and Elvia were wonderful hosts.  They made us feel as if their home was our own.  She cooked delicious meals to keep us going as we worked in the clinic.  The patients were so grateful for their new glasses and new found view of the world.  We really enjoyed our time in the village.  Scott and Mark were even given eggs from one of the patients.

Amy did a wonderful job of coordinating everything!  She had all of the details covered.  From the special letters and forms which got us through customs at the Quito airport, to lining up amazing translators and volunteers who made it possible to examine all of the patients.  She got the work space ready for us to set up our equipment and made sure everyone was comfortable and had what was needed.  She stopped at a store to pick up supplies we requested and water and snacks for us to enjoy during our work days.  Plus, a little wine and champagne to celebrate and toast with at the end of the mission.

We felt fortunate to be able to explore the area in the evenings.  We hiked to a waterfall and were invited into the home of one of the locals.  On our last day, we were driven in a truck by Paulino’s brother and our guide (one of our patients in the clinic) from Malingua Pamba to a trail where we could hike up to crater lake.  It was stunning!  

Overall, it was a truly wonderful and heartwarming experience for each of us.  Thank you so much for inviting us to Malingua Pamba.

With sincere gratitude,

 

Kara Fedders, OD

VOSH Colorado