Hi, my name is Rhiannon and I am a Nursing Student at Denver College of Nursing. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read my post! In September of 2023, myself and 5 other nursing students will be traveling to Purulha, Guatemala with Refugee International and our schools Global Health Perspective Program (GHP)! I am in my second semester as Community Liaison on the GHP board now and am blessed to now have the opportunity to take my medical education overseas. Our group will spend one week working in clinics providing medical relief to the indiginous Maya population of the Baha Verapaz region. Below is more about the organization and region itself.
Purulha is in the Baha Verapaz region of central Guatemala. The village is located in a remote area approximately 5 hours by bus from Guatemala City. The population is mostly indigenous Maya, with very little access to medical care. The residents of Purulha were severely impacted during the 36-year Guatemalan Civil War and are still struggling for basic necessities. The average educational level is highest for males at a 3rd-grade level. Refuge International partners with the local non-governmental organization Yo'o to provide health clinics three times a year. Patients with malnutrition, diabetes, respiratory conditions, musculoskeletal injuries and wounds. During the 5 days of clinic, we will be working with providers from the U.S., doing intake and assisting in the lab, pharmacy, exam rooms, and day surgery. Other opportunities that could arise include teaching on topics such as hygiene/handwashing/toothbrushing, and nutrition for managing diabetes and hypertension.
Refuge International has partnered with Yo’o Guatemala, a local, community development non-profit organization founded by Brenda Itzé Lemus Gordillo. Together we are working to bring physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, nurses, pharmacy staff, interpreters and other ancillary personnel to make healthcare more accessible to the communities in this region.
GHP Instagram: globalhealthperspectives_dcn
Studying/working in healthcare in the United States is a privilege that most people around the world don't have access to. The opportunity to bring our knowledge to areas where resources and support are scarce is invaluable.
I truly thank you for taking the time to read my post and hope that you can help me with this goal! All funds with be allocated toward the program cost and travel. Feel free to share with friends and family, again thank you! :)
-Rhiannon
Organizer
