Living out of carry-on bags so that checked luggage can be used to transport donated materials isn't exactly how most folks picture a trip to Jamaica. But for members of First Church, it is a life changing and life affirming experience. Biology professor emeritus Steve Mills, Don Riffle, and Dennis Foresman have orchestrated several such visits by teams sponsored by the First Church. The next Jamaica Medical Mission will be March 18-26, 2012.
A project that originated from a desire of Rockport physician Dr. Wallace Carpenter and his wife, Diane, to help people in the poverty stricken area of Falmouth Jamaica has been continued by groups from the Midwest for the past 15 years. Volunteer groups of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, construction workers, pre-med students, high school students, and other concerned individuals arrive several times a month to donate a week of their time to staff a free medical clinic in Falmouth. An average of 100 patients are served each day the clinic is open. The clinic is operated by the Methodist Parrish only when volunteer groups provide staffing. Volunteers also visit with children in an area orphanage and elementary school providing Bible School and music lessons.
The overwhelming outpouring of appreciation by the local community continues to amaze the medical teams. In the clinic, in the street, at the restaurant, it seems that everyone the teams encounter express their deep appreciation to those who have freely given their time to keep this mission going. Evidence of God's blessings are apparent every day and the gifts of each team member blossoms as opportunities arise
Most of the needed supplies for the medical clinic are donated. There is a continuing need for acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen, Aleve, allergy or sinus medications, adult and pediatric vitamins, adult and children's antifungal skin creams, antibiotic creams, arthritic pain rubbing creams, and vaginal yeast medication. Unused prescriptions medications such as those used to treat osteoarthritis, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are greatfully accepted. Some non-medical items are also needed such as school supplies, soap, and other personal care items. Used prescription eye-glasses are also in great demand. In addition, monetary donations are always welcomed.
Donations can be left at the office of First Church.
A project that originated from a desire of Rockport physician Dr. Wallace Carpenter and his wife, Diane, to help people in the poverty stricken area of Falmouth Jamaica has been continued by groups from the Midwest for the past 15 years. Volunteer groups of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, construction workers, pre-med students, high school students, and other concerned individuals arrive several times a month to donate a week of their time to staff a free medical clinic in Falmouth. An average of 100 patients are served each day the clinic is open. The clinic is operated by the Methodist Parrish only when volunteer groups provide staffing. Volunteers also visit with children in an area orphanage and elementary school providing Bible School and music lessons.
The overwhelming outpouring of appreciation by the local community continues to amaze the medical teams. In the clinic, in the street, at the restaurant, it seems that everyone the teams encounter express their deep appreciation to those who have freely given their time to keep this mission going. Evidence of God's blessings are apparent every day and the gifts of each team member blossoms as opportunities arise
Most of the needed supplies for the medical clinic are donated. There is a continuing need for acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen, Aleve, allergy or sinus medications, adult and pediatric vitamins, adult and children's antifungal skin creams, antibiotic creams, arthritic pain rubbing creams, and vaginal yeast medication. Unused prescriptions medications such as those used to treat osteoarthritis, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are greatfully accepted. Some non-medical items are also needed such as school supplies, soap, and other personal care items. Used prescription eye-glasses are also in great demand. In addition, monetary donations are always welcomed.