Cindy Clair — Providence Health & Services and PeaceHealth
Bajo Lempa Medical Brigade

Musings by Cindy Clair, Healing & Compassionate Care Coordinator
Sacred Heart Medical Center, Eugene, OR

Hola! The next PazSalud Medical Mission is in the works and I’m here to report! I begin with a lot of excitement and a smidgeon of anxiousness (not to mention, a little fear of the unknown), nevertheless incredibly grateful for this opportunity to serve.

The purpose of the PazSalud mission program is to provide healthcare to some of the most poor of El Salvador. It is also meant to provide an opportunity for PeaceHealth employees and members of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace to volunteer their time, skills and hearts. With gratitude, I was chosen as one of those volunteers. I come with no clinical background and little understanding of Spanish but with a willingness to serve and a desire to immerse myself in culture with people who have struggled for survival through a brutal war. Also, perhaps... to know myself a bit better. This desire comes from a place inside of me that realizes I live in a country that provides just about anything I need or want... and that I so often take for granted. 

This journal (my journey?) began a couple of years ago when I felt the calling to serve on a medical mission. I was attracted to the thought of working with a group of my PeaceHealth family in El Salvador. The time finally came, offering me an opportunity to do so. And as a photojournalist, no less! Seems I’ve been granted my wish and now I’m preparing for the March 2006 brigade. 

We will be traveling to the Bajo Lempa region in the Department of Usulutan, serving in a community called Tierra Blanca. From what I understand, it is not too far from the Pacific Ocean where Hurricane Stan (and the most recent earthquakes) drove many people out of their communities for refuge into Tierra Blanca and surrounding towns. We may be seeing some of these refugees, in fact. I also understand there will be a lot of bugs. 

Working in a healthcare institution grants one many opportunities for preparing for travel. Tetenus/Diptheria shot in Employee Health: check. Hep A immunity: check. E-mail my doc for a prescription for Cipro: check. Donated laptop from IT: check (thanks Steve and Matt!). New nametag for ‘PazSalud:’ check. Travel arrangements completed: check! Having traveled often to Mexico, my passport is current. Having wonderful employees who have gone before us document their experiences provides a calming of my nerves. Now, I have to figure out how to pack sheets, towels, clothes for hot weather and tons of bugs, my gear...ten days worth in one 40 pound carry-on. Our check-in privileges are reserved for large Rubbermade containers of medical supplies, pharmacy, eyeglasses and equipment; hopefully everything we will need for this particular mission. I am studying up and preparing for my experience, reflecting on my hopes, my fears, how I may be changed...

So far, these scattered thoughts come to mind: will I have toilet paper and the privacy that goes along with it? Will I disrespect the people by taking their photos? Will I have the opportunity to help make a difference, without my camera? Will my bug bites be big and utterly annoying? Will I be able to leave with a sense of completion through whatever struggles I might personally be dealt? What will the colors be like? When will I see the children! 

So, please wish us well. I will record my experiences along the way, ready to share with you upon my return. 
 

NEXT-->