This June, I will be traveling to Guatemala for my third mission trip with the USD Sanford School of Medicine. Alongside a dedicated team of 21 medical students and 3 physician attendings, we will operate no-cost medical clinics in rural villages around San Lucas Toliman. Over the course of six days, we expect to see more than 330 patients, providing physical exams, ultrasounds, free medications, and essential health items like electrolyte packets and toothbrushes. Most of the people we serve are women and children living in areas that often lack running water or basic utilities.

I am deeply committed to rural medicine, and the communities we visit in Guatemala are among the most underserved. Many families have no access to transportation, making it nearly impossible to reach the nearest hospital. The average income in these areas is very low, with many working tirelessly in agriculture, forestry, textiles, and food production. Mothers often stay home to care for their children, managing households with limited resources and water that is unsafe to drink. Despite these hardships, the Guatemalan people are incredibly welcoming and kind, and it is a privilege to offer them the kind of basic healthcare that so many of us take for granted.

The funds I raise will go directly toward travel, lodging, mission fees (through the non-profit Friends of San Lucas), transportation to rural sites, and medical necessities. Our entire team is volunteering our time and skills, providing care free of charge. Your support will help us reach those who need it most and make a real difference in their lives. Thank you for considering a donation to my mission trip.