Lima, Peru: October 22–30
It is our pleasure to announce the successful completion of the international mission that took place in Lima, Peru, from October 22–30 at Hospital Daniel Alcides Carrión.
The team was composed with volunteers from Brazil, Paraguay, Italy, Ireland, United States and largely by our Peruvian colleagues. During the two days of screening, 170 patients received a full medical evaluation and 145 procedures were performed for 116 patients over the surgical week.
The team demonstrated an unconditional flexibility and good spirits throughout the entire mission, which was a key component to making this mission a great success. From the beginning the team worked with an incredible synergy and made the flow of the mission not only smooth but extremely efficient.
On this mission, we met John Jairo and Renzo Jair Purizaca Calderon, twins who were both born with cleft lip and palate. John Jairo and Renzo were born in Piura, in the northern coast of Peru, in the desert of Sechura.
Because their father is a fisherman, the family is very poor. Their dad made many sacrifices and worked very hard to be able to bring his babies and wife to Lima. The family arrived in Lima one day before screening. At first, Renzo was on standby because he had a slight fever. His twin brother, John Jairo was selected for surgery as soon as the schedule was made. Their father and mother were happy of course, but sad at the same time for their other little son.
Fortunately, with treatment from the Operation Smile doctors and nurses, Renzo got better and was strong enough to receive surgery! That week, the twins both received surgery and a new chance at life. They stayed with us in the hospital all week; they had no family in Lima so we all became their family. They came back for post-op and both boys are recovering beautifully and doing great.
We would like to take this opportunity and thank the Operation Smile Peru team and congratulate them for accomplishing the high level of organization needed to provide comprehensive quality care for patients with cleft lips and palates. Thanks to each of one of you who made this mission possible!
Warm regards,
Lizet Campos and Ana Power
Operation Smile medical volunteers have provided more than 6,000 Peruvian children and young adults with free physical examinations and more than 2,500 have received life-changing surgery during international and local medical missions.
First international mission: 1999
International mission sites: Arequipa, Lima, Salaverry and Trujillo
Local mission sites: Arequipa, Iquitos, Cusco, Trujillo and Puno
