Hello everyone.    I’m going to volunteer again with Austin Smiles next week.   This time I’m returning to Guatemala!   It’s come full circle.   The children’s hospital in Guatemala City is where I went for my very first volunteer trip back in 2014.   Thanks to the efforts of the Shalom Foundation, Austin Smiles, and our volunteers, we will be arriving next week to perform cleft lip and palate surgeries for approximately 50 children!  

Volunteering has become a part of my life ever since that first trip 5 years ago.   It recharges my passion for nursing in a way that is hard to describe.   I feel at times, I need this as much as the kids do.   I’m fortunate to be able to have the time and skills to donate to this amazing cause.   Please help me with the financial part for medical supplies and travel expenses so we can continue to make a difference.   I never had children of my own, so just think of it as the baby shower gift you never bought!    I’m not even going to make you go to Babies R Us for it!    

I’ll be posting pictures on both Facebook and Instagram so you can follow along with the transformation of these adorable children.   See the difference you helped make with your support.    

So many of you have supported me in the past, both financially and emotionally with these trips.   I want to let you know your support in my endeavors has meant so much to me.   I also realize not everyone has the funds to spare, I appreciate you supporting me in other ways.   Please share this with someone you know... maybe that coworker that stole your lunch out of the refrigerator or that neighbor who’s dog always leaves you a little turd by your mailbox...  

Thanks for getting through all this rambling.   I look forward to seeing you guys when I get back to the country!   Wish me luck on that part too...(I’m kidding, of course)