The familiarity of life before March 2020 is returning for many. We have witnessed the resurgence of large-scale in-person events, the easing of testing and mask mandates, and a collective acceptance to move forward with life.
Consequently, this column will transition from a weekly update to a monthly reflection on travels through the lens of health and wellness.
In mid-March, I embarked on my first international trip since January 2020, returning to Roatán, Honduras, with a dedicated team of healthcare professionals to provide essential health care to the local community.
The Planning and Traveling for a Week of Service
Our team, consisting of four surgeons and nurses traveling from various locations across the United States, prepared meticulously for this service trip. This first international journey since 2020 required us to navigate the testing requirements to enter Honduras effectively. Organizing our documents was manageable, thanks to the user-friendly resources available.
Planning took months—gathering medical supplies, coordinating with local physicians to triage patients, and adjusting to potential changes and cancellations. As we ventured towards our destination, the desire to resume travel was palpable, although reminders of the pandemic remained through the presence of masks and sanitizers. Given the pandemic and the remote nature of our destination, we ensured to pack our essential medical supplies for self-care.
Upon landing at Juan Manuel Galvez airport in Roatán, we were met with a crowded immigration line filled with travelers from various flights. Despite the discomfort of the heat and a long journey, the excitement for my return to Honduras overshadowed the temporary inconveniences.
Honduras: A Rich Multicultural Melting Pot
Roatán, situated off the northern coast of Honduras and the largest of the Bay Islands, is a haven for divers and tourists, particularly those arriving by cruise ships. While tourism drives the local economy along with fishing, the island’s true essence lies in its rich multicultural tapestry, home to approximately 110,000 residents. This diversity includes Czech communities, American ex-pats, and Spanish- and English-speaking locals, along with Afro-Caribbean populations. Interacting with these locals, I noticed their resilience during the pandemic, expressing joy in the return of tourism.
A Week Providing Specialized Care to Those in Need
Unlike many visitors to Roatán, my mission was to deliver medical services to those in need. It is a privilege to apply my medical expertise to positively impact this community. Unfortunately, access to healthcare, particularly specialized services, is quite limited on the island. Local clinics provide basic urgent care services, but more complex health issues often require transfer to the mainland, leading to unnecessary delays in care.
Our primary objective is to deliver specialized care and educate local providers to expand their ability to offer services sustainably. Each day was an emotional journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and meaningful connections.
This particular trip saw our organization partnering with another group of volunteers united by a shared purpose. Every experience reinforced the significance of collaboration in making our time impactful and rewarding.
Despite the lack of resources, the tight-knit community consistently supports one another. Patients translated for each other, employers facilitated their employees’ access to care, and community members ensured everyone reached their appointments.
Each morning, patients eagerly awaited to be seen, expressing relief and gratitude for the care provided.
My Takeaway: How to Give Back on Your Next Trip
I cherish the opportunity to contribute to a sustainable healthcare model in Roatán. Each journey bestows new perspectives on the beauty of daily life. By connecting with locals at health clinics, I am continually reminded of the importance of appreciating life’s details.
Consider supporting organizations like local clinics that require basic hygiene kits, shoes, and clothing to assist the community. When you travel, if you can spare some space in your luggage, think about how you can give back to the local area.
