Global Health, Service Learning, and Medical Volunteering in Colombia

Serving in impoverished communities in small remote villages near Chinchiná, Colombia opened my eyes towards the privileged life that I live. In one of our usual door to door check in’s we met a family in which the son and the daughter had a chest bone deformity. They have been to several doctors who have concluded that as long as this condition doesn't affect their internal organs and their breathing they will have to live with it. The mother told us that her daughter started having some difficulty breathing due to the deformity and so the specialist that they saw suggested a surgery. We chatted with them about their life and their hobbies and school. The girl was highly praised by the teachers at school and aspired to become a doctor some day. The boy was saying that he doesn't mind his bone deformity because it allows him to have an advantage when playing soccer. We all had a laugh and realized that this family is truly living by enjoying life the best they can despite difficulties. Over and over again I had the privilege of hearing similar stories in which I realized that possessions, money, or any other material thing is nothing compared to living a joyful life surrounded by your family and friends. The many Colombians that I have met have strong family values and do things that make them happy even if they are struggling financially and living a difficult life. They always gave thanks for what they had and stated that they're doing the best they can. Being part of this experience broadened my view on humanity, on life and brought new joy and purpose.

I've been on 4 medical mission trips and the one I took to Colombia was by far the best. The staff that was involved is the main reason the trip was so successful. Glen and his staff made it clear that they were as dedicated to helping our patients as we were. It was one of the best learning experiences I have ever been through. Nothing will compare to the experience this trip gave me.

ISL is such an amazing organization that helps bring helpful hands to a country and people in need and fills the hearts of both the giver and receiver. Thank you for an amazing experience! ISL helps coordinate the housing, transportation, areas to visit, most of the food and connect those in need with those of us with medical skills. The house visits were my favorite as you get to be inside the humble homes and really see how the people live. The clinic days are wonderful and busy and we learned so much about common and tropical diseases. We learned more things you could never learn in a textbook. Thank you ISL!

I have gone on several medical mission trips in my life and this is by far the best. The doctors and staff took excellent care of all the students that attended. Not once did I ever feel unsafe or scared, I only felt welcomed to a country that I had never been to before. I would love to participate with this team again! This truly was an experience of a lifetime that I wish everyone could enjoy.

The experience was too valuable to put into words. Being immersed in the culture and language really taught me things that I wouldn't have learned elsewhere. The impact we had was the best fulfillment.