In the summer of 2008, Sean Burgess, the medical team leader for HELPS’ first San Diego team, asked me to join his team as Project Manager. I wasn’t exactly sure what that role would entail, but I was confident that it was a great opportunity and gladly took on the responsibility. Throughout the next year, we saw God diligently at work within our team. With each new obstacle and setback, he continued to provide the necessary volunteers, supplies and resources. I’ll never forget the madness of the week before our departure. Everyday brought a new, unforeseeable obstacle. Travel arrangements suddenly needed to be changed, 30 medical bags were delivered 2 weeks late, supplies were arriving at the last minute, and it seemed as though anything could go wrong at any minute. Yet, with each uncertainty, God continued to provide and make a way.
When we finally arrived in Guatemala, it was obvious that God was with us. No one ever expected to go through customs as quickly as we did. After 2 days of travel, not one team member complained when we had to sett up the hospital immediately upon arrival in Huehuetenango. The team collaboration and willingness to serve was beyond expectations, but it was the small miracles throughout the week that changed my heart. I will never forget the way one woman looked at Dr. Gutierrez, one of our Ob/Gyns, and thanked her immediately after waking up from her surgery. Her life was forever changed and despite the pain, she was incredibly thankful. The look in her eyes said it all. I’ll never forget the story of one boy who couldn’t walk on his own simply because he couldn’t see. A sweet, elderly couple who was at the hospital almost every day, nearly had a tragic accident when they both slipped off a steep ledge. Thankfully, God had Sean perfectly positioned to catch the woman's fall just before her head hit the concrete. We also silently watched a baby girl breastfeeding just 15 minutes after her cleft lip was repaired. Everyday brought something new and unexpected.
Beth Moore once wrote, “God surpasses our dreams when we reach past our personal plans and agendas to grab the hand of Christ and walk the path He has chosen for us.” I never could have dreamt of the plans God had in store for me on this trip. The relationships I made, the passion I found, and the moments I experienced were truly life changing. It was more than I could have ever hoped for.
Helps International
- copyright 2004 - All rights reserved
