Support Nursing Student's Mission to Dominica

In 2021, I decided the career path I was going down would not be fulfilling enough for me. After long discussions with my family, I decided to pursue nursing. The last 3 years, I have been studying at Tulsa Community College to become a registered nurse while working weekends at St. John's Medical Center as a patient transporter.

My school organizes a nursing mission trip each summer to a country in need. Growing up, I went on mission trips every summer with my church beginning in 6th grade until my senior year. I didn't realize how much I missed these volunteer opportunities in my life until I was asked to go on this summer’s nursing trip. My school will be sending nursing students/graduates to the island of Dominica (information about the island below) to help perform home healthcare, work at the government hospital, and teach kids how they can stay healthy. I am also looking forward to experiencing the cultural traditions of the Dominican people.

Although this mission trip is organized by the school, I am responsible for paying my way. I am kindly asking for donations to help support me through this opportunity and allow me to gain experience that I can carry throughout my nursing career. Anything and everything helps and is greatly appreciated

Information:

Dominica is often called the "Nature Island" for its lush rainforests, towering mountains, and abundant rivers. The people of Dominica, known as Dominicans, live a life deeply intertwined with their environment, history, and traditions. Their daily lives reflect a rich blend of indigenous Kalinago heritage, African ancestry, European influence, and modern Caribbean culture.

Fishing, farming, and small business ventures sustain many families. The island’s fertile volcanic soil provides an abundance of crops like bananas, yams, dasheen, and plantains, which are staples in the Dominican diet. Many locals make a living from agriculture, selling their produce at the bustling Roseau Market, where vendors call out their wares in a mix of English and Creole. Fishermen, after a night at sea, return with their catch of tuna, mahi-mahi, and snapper, providing fresh seafood for the island.

In a small territory along the island’s eastern coast, the Kalinago people, the island’s indigenous inhabitants, continue to preserve their ancestral traditions. They carve canoes, weave baskets, and pass down the stories of their forebears. Though modern influences have reached their communities, they remain steadfast in their cultural identity, welcoming visitors to learn about their way of life and their deep connection to nature.

Life on Dominica is not without its struggles. The island faces the challenges of hurricanes, economic hardship, and emigration, as many young Dominicans seek opportunities abroad. Yet, resilience defines the people of Dominica. After the devastation of Hurricane Maria in 2017, the islanders came together, rebuilding homes, roads, and livelihoods with an unwavering spirit. Their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity is a testament to their deep-rooted strength.

Despite the island’s natural beauty and strong sense of community, healthcare disparities remain a significant concern. Limited access to advanced medical facilities, especially in rural areas, means that many Dominicans struggle to receive timely and adequate care. Non-communicable diseases, particularly diabetes and heart disease, are at the forefront of health challenges. Poor dietary habits, influenced by economic constraints and increased consumption of processed foods, contribute to these conditions. Additionally, hypertension and obesity are growing concerns, further exacerbating the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. Efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure, promote preventive care, and educate communities about healthy living are ongoing, but challenges persist due to resource limitations and economic constraints.