Hello Family and Friends!

I have some exciting news: I joined the BYU Medical Outreach chapter of Volunteers Around the World and will be spending two weeks to promote public health by doing service projects in Guatemala! I am so passionate about serving those in need, practicing medicine, and traveling around our beautiful world.

Volunteers Around the World (VAW) is a non-governmental organization devoted to improving the standard of living for those living in some of the most poverty stricken communities of Albania, Guatemala, Panama, Dominican Republic, Peru and Thailand. Our focus is to enhance the community’s infrastructure through improved education, access to more advanced medical and dental treatment and increased economic opportunities. We strive to “volunteer our time and donate our energy” by working with the community members and leaders of Guatemala to create a healthier environment for those who are less fortunate than us.

In July 2017, I will head down to Guatemala. Many communities there lack what we in the United States consider basic utilities. Our primary project is to hold mobile medical clinics, where we will work with local health care professionals to provide free primary medical care to communities including gathering patient history, taking vital signs, holding patient consultations and giving free medications as prescribed by the doctors. We will also visit surrounding elementary schools and teach the children basic public health classes.

In order to make this trip a success, I need your help! As a team, we are working to raise funds to purchase medications and supplies for our mobile clinics. Your donations will go toward providing free medical attention to these communities in rural Guatemala. Any amount if greatly appreciated. With $20, your donation can purchase 2,000 vitamins. With $300, your donation can purchase 200 bottles of Children’s Acetaminophen. With $500, your donation can buy enough medications to stock our mobile pharmacy for one day. It is amazing how far a donation can go!

Your support means the world to me! I will keep you updated on my journey! I love you all!

Love, Mai