What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
FIMRC has been very successful over the years as it becomes well established in each community. Programs in each country differ as FIMRC focuses its efforts on each community’s specific needs.
Our clinic is Costa Rica has developed a reputation as a nice and welcoming place where patients feel very comfortable and confident that they are receiving high quality medical services.
What country have you always wanted to visit?
I have always wanted to visit INDIA! My father who, in fact, is the person who has influenced my life the most had the opportunity to visit India several times while I was a child. Every time he returned, he would bring lots of pictures and stories that were just like fairy tales for a kid like me! Growing up, I realized that even though India is a very beautiful place full of colors, music, and beautiful clothing; it is also a place that has a lot people in need. So I see myself traveling to India in order to help people and, at the same time, enjoy the beauty of this magical country.
Describe a time when you felt especially proud to be part of the FIMRC team.
Every single day. When I talk to my family, friends or have the opportunity to share about my work with FIMRC, I cannot hide the excitement and fascination I feel for my job. Having the chance to help people, to see them getting better not only physically but also emotionally is rewarding. I also have the opportunity to be a role model for the kids in the community and I enjoy watching them grow up.
On many occasions my work comes with big smiles, hugs full of affection and in some cases tears to express how grateful our patients are for the things we do for them.
Why is language learning and cultural immersion important to you?
There are so many reasons why going to a place and being immersed in the culture is very important. When FIMRC volunteers come to be part of our program, they get the chance to be integrated into the community, interacting with local people, and understanding the way others live. Seeing a country or community with your own eyes is invaluable. Many FIMRC volunteers are interested in medicine and I believe that to be a good physician you must understand that health is not only about physical ailments but also that emotions and the environment where people grow and live affects a person’s well-being. Taking a chance and being immersed in another culture opens the possibility of creating more open-minded people.