Benziger Trip 2/20

Here is a very brief summary of our recent successful Partners in Health trip to Nicaragua.

There were 7 in our group: John and Mary Benziger, Jim and Helen McKendry, Sally Fellers and her son Nathan Fellers, and Gina Coppens.

John delivered a microwave tissue processor to the pathology teaching lab in Leon. Dr. Orozco, the pathologists and residents were all very interested in the project and more than willing to run tests and gather data. John searched out and found 100% isopropanol at CIFARMA in Managua, which is essential for this kind of processing. Took inventory of problems with path lab building to be repaired by Ted. Looked at good cases with Dra Tenorio. Think Verbos brigade cases should pay a little to support lab.

Mary painted a colorful mural in the entry of the albergue of CAIMCA in Puerto Cabezas. Got good help from Fernando, Ismenia, Norbel, Carmen, and others.

Jim and Helen supported Sally and Nathan with their quest to locate handicapped people in dire need of wheelchairs, prosthetics, and other helpful equipment. Sally's foundation (Healing Art Foundation) is raising money in memory of Sally's son David who was born with cytomegalovirus and brought so much joy to the family before passing away at the age of 30. Many key connections were made. 5 wheelchairs were purchased at the wheelchair factory in Leon and shipped by bus to Puerto Cabezas. With the help of Martha Downs, Jeff Allison, Lester, and Harold all 5 were delivered to grateful recipients.

Gina made great progress with Filtron potable water project. The visit to the factory in San Marcos was very worthwhile. She bought and arranged transport (through Joshua Briemberg) for 100 filtrones to the Bodega in Puerto Cabezas. She identifies Lillian, Erna Patterson?s daughter, to head up program. Got good support from Pat & Ted. Made contact with med school (Dr. Flores since Dr. Salas was out of town) and presentation to 2nd year students who embrace the plan to provide education.

Gina, Sally & Nate enjoyed staying in the PIH guest house with Lester, Arlen and her mother Lillian.