Hi everyone,

My name is Josh, and I’m a first-year medical student at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM). This upcoming Spring Break, I’ve been given the opportunity to participate in a medical mission trip to Guatemala, where our team will provide direct medical care to underserved communities that often have little to no access to healthcare.

During this 7-day trip (March 6–13), I’ll be working alongside TCOM & Guatemalan physicians and fellow medical students in full-day clinics, seeing up to 100–200 patients per day. Under physician supervision, we’ll be involved in patient interviews, physical exams, diagnostic testing (blood glucose, urinalysis, EKGs), patient education, and osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM). This trip provides hands-on clinical experience while allowing us to serve communities facing chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, infections, and limited access to routine care.

In addition to the clinical work, this experience emphasizes cultural humility, adaptability, and service. We’ll be traveling to different clinic locations daily, working long hours in resource-limited settings, and collaborating closely with local communities. It’s an experience that will shape how I practice medicine and how I care for patients in the future.

Why I’m Fundraising

The total estimated cost of the trip is $1,600–$1,800, which includes:

• Trip fees (~$650) for lodging, clinic supplies, and logistics

• Flights (~$800) via group travel

• Personal expenses (~$250) for meals, transportation, and required program memberships.

As a full-time medical student, taking on these costs is challenging, which is why I’m reaching out for support. Every donation—no matter the amount—directly helps make this trip possible and allows me to focus on serving patients rather than financial stress.

How You’re Helping

Your support helps:

• Provide medical care to underserved communities

• Supply clinics with essential medications and equipment

• Support hands-on medical education that will impact countless future patients

Any contribution, no matter the amount, truly helps. Your support directly impacts patient care and allows me to take part in an experience that will influence how I practice medicine for the rest of my career. I’m incredibly grateful for your kindness, encouragement, and willingness to support me on this journey. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for being part of something that means so much to me.

With sincere gratitude,

Josh Ayala