Global Health and Outreach: Destination Guatemala
Dr. Joseph Giordano, former Chairman of Surgery at George Washington University Hospital and Dr. Paul Dangerfield, Anesthesiologist approached the GWU Hospital Women's Board to seek support for a volunteer surgical team's trip to Guatemala, in coordination with Partner for Surgery. Three Women's 
Board members, Global Outreach Chair Crystal Grandstaff, Treasurer Pamela Thornton and President Lisa Tompkins President, joined the team on its humanitarian journey with the first of two cohorts. The Board provided over $300 in supplies for patients including toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, hair ties, combs, manicure sets and slippers.
The Women's Board members provided significant support throughout the unforgettable journey. Prior to surgery, members served as translators, prepared patient charts and communicated with family members. They escorted patients through the triage process and helped schedule surgeries. The women were invited to observe several surgical processes, which was an eye-opening experience and increased compassion for and understanding of the needs of the Guatemalan people. After surgery, the women assisted in the recovery room by holding patients' hands, feeling them and assisting with their transport.
As part of patient advocacy and community outreach, the members facilitated alongside Spanish and K'iche translators numerous activities and workshops, to teach basic hygiene and reducing disease transmission. They also conducted assessments of maternal and child health needs and education and an environmental scan/social work assessment to inform future interventions that will be culturally relevant.
The Board members also joined a Guatemalan medical student and nurse on a visit to a rural health clinic where several babies were treated for colds and had well-baby visits. Additionally, the women had the opportunity to observe the nurse administering vaccinations including MMR and providing Vitamin A supplements to children in need.
The Women's Board looks forward to supporting the GW volunteer team on future trips and has already committed to a $10,000 donation for 2011. "We were told how much value the patient advocacy, education and community outreach we provided added to the efforts. "We are truly humbled by the beautiful and grateful Guatemalan people and an outstanding medical team who gave us the opportunity to serve, grow and learn. We will never forget the experience", said Pamela.
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