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Ryler Dustin - An Eye-Opening Experience in El Salvador |
I was in El Salvador for ten days in February 2003 as part of the PeaceHealth El Salvador Mission. I flew to El Salvador with Dr. Ken Henderson, a Bellingham optometrist, and two assistants from his office. We were met in San Salvador by Sr. Eleanor Gilmore. |
I was part of a team of volunteers that offered eye exams, glasses, and eye surgery to rural Salvadorians. Dr. Henderson and his colleagues worked tirelessly in hot, poorly ventilated conditions. Along with Sr. Eleanor and others, I served as a translator. In five days we treated over 914 people. Seeing the look on parents’ faces as we gave their children the chance to read was breathtaking. It was equally moving to offer hope to elderly people who had spent years of their lives unable to see. Patients walked for miles to seek an end to chronic eye irritation. Some grown adults cried when we helped them. The experience was mind-altering. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been of service to the people of El Salvador. The experience has changed how I think about our world, and the places and people that are less fortunate then many of us. If you have questions about the El Salvador mission you can email me at rylerwilliamdustin@hotmail.com, or you go to: www.pazsalud.org © El Salvador Health Mission |