Today we visited the HIV clinic. All residents were men except for one woman. We lead the in an activity, they shared stories, we all sang and did an activity together. We took a tour of the area. Sheets, clothes and personal items were so appreciated. We brought these individuals 3 suitcases of clothes and believe it or not...it was not enough. Many need tennis shoes. If we have funds left over, we plan to send more clothes and shoes. Two of the pictures below are individuals proud of the supplies you helped us obtain.

After an incredible morning we traveled to the ISA office. There we were taught how to make a true Costa Rican meal...it was delicious.

Thank you again!!

Dr. B

If only you all could be here with us. I cannot tell you how incredibly proud I am of this group of students. Today we visited a nursing home. We danced, we painted pots, planted flowers, painted fingernails (yes even some of our gentlemen painted women's fingernails), and did make-up for some of the women. We took the goodie bags full of items such as combs, kleenex, nail clippers, deodorant, note pads and more. The faces of the patients were priceless. We were blessed beyond measure.

This afternoon we toured an school of nursing. We were able to sit in on a class-and even understood some of what they were talking about in Spanish. We allowed the students from Memphis and Costa Rica ask questions. Fun fact...they use nursing diagnoses here in Costa Rica too. 

They had a great time comparing curriculum, course layout and more. Emails were shared by all. Such a fun time...

Here are a few pictures from our day!!

Dr. B

Another fun day here in Costa Rica. We started our day with a city tour and a bit of history. We learned that Costa Rica has not had an army since 1948. Costa Rica was the first country in the world to ablolish the death penalty. Perhaps the most meaningful experience was visiting the children's hospital. We were able to give patients glo sticks and stickers. The most touching opportunity was visiting the pediatric oncology unit. It was hard but fun. We were able to donate some money for their foundation from your gracious giving. 

Here are some fun pictures from the day.

Dr. Breckenridge

Good Evening All,

We have had another great day here in Costa Rica. Today we listened to a physician present the Costa Rican health care system. All citizens are given free health care. The government takes 13% tax money for social security which helps fund the health care. Naturally, there are advantages to this program as well as disadvantages. One interesting fact we learned from the hospital we toured today is the 80% c-section rate. Women are able to request a c-section at 38 weeks. This is different from the public hospitals. Women in the public hospitals do not receive epidurals and do not have c-sections unless it is necessary. 

Yesterday we visited a small rural hospital. While we were touring the Emergency room an English speaking woman arrived. She had tripped over her dog and broke her wrist. The patient, nurse and physician invited us in to watch them reduce the fracture and then cast her arm. NO one passed out and the patient did great-no pain medication given for this procedure here in Costa Rica. 

Both days were full of fun in the sun...we saw sloths, monkeys, racoons, frogs, lizards and a beautiful sunset. 

Tomorrow we will visit the children's hospital and listen to a presentation by an infectious disease physician. Stay tuned for more...

Dr. Breckenridge

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! We have made it to the 1/2 way mark with our funding. We appreciate you so much. Spread the word....

Dr. Breckenridge

Wahoooo......we are almost 1/2 way there. Oh the lives we will touch!

Thank you!!

We are now live and taking donations!! Thank you to those who have already donated.

Dr. Breckenridge