A highlight of our July trip was having a team with us from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry: Dr. Rick Williamson, a prosthodontist, was joined by three fourth-year dental students and Mike Hartley, a denture technician from Iowa City. We are incredibly proud of our denture lab, and on this trip, more than a dozen patients received new smiles.
Our dental team continues to implement our goal of screening and taking dental x-rays from each of our patients. In addition to Daniel Lopez who provided the dental hygiene services, dentists were able to offer dozens of treatments including fillings, root canals, extractions and oral surgery.
Our medical team was able to offer paps to more than two dozen women. Fifteen new patient referrals were generated. The hundreds of lab tests performed allowed our medical team to diagnose and treat with confidence—our lab capabilities are extraordinary, especially considering our remote location. What an incredible week!
Thank you to each of our volunteers and Dominican partners!
Coming to Naranjito and being part of Somos Amigos has taught me that being a doctor is not just about curing or treating illnesses, it is also about learning from the souls of those who struggle with almost nothing in hand. Treating patients with limited resources has given me dignity, resilience and more hope than any medical book.
Every patient interaction is a life lesson. Sometimes I can’t give them everything they need, but I can give them the best of me because their courage inspires me to never give up, to keep growing and to not forget why I chose this profession.
Volunteer Spotlight: Daniel Lopez
Gazing at the rolling hills of El Naranjito, I reflect on the journey I’ve had since my last visit 12 years ago. My first trip with Soros Amigos occurred when I was still a student, eager but inexperienced. Coming back, I find that there’s still so much to learn, even when I now have much more to give. I’m eternally grateful for the honor of serving those who receive their care from Somos Amigos, and for the ceaseless growth that they provide for me as well.
Without Somos Amigos we are nothing. Without the medicines I receive I would not be able to work. The clinic helps me with my livelihood, keeps me alive.
