December 2003

TRIP NOTES

This month’s journey across the Baja Peninsula was still a great sight, with greenery everywhere and water in the canyons.  The weather in Baja was moderate during the day and a little chilly at night.  Everyone seemed to warm up, however, when we saw the smiles  on the faces of the townspeople.  The children were so excited when Santa’s helpers  gave out toys that were donated by some very generous elves!  In addition to giving dozens of Christmas gifts to the children, 7 year old David Coryat presented over 130 books to the boarding school at Cadeje.  The English and English/Spanish books of all levels were donated by David and his Santa Barbara Montesssori School classmates.

CLINIC NOTES

The doctors went right to work as soon as they arrived and were able to treat everyone in a speedy, thorough and efficient manner.  Lyndee and Ross Rankin took blood pressures on the new digital blood pressure machine.  We were able to see about 50-60 patients.  Lola did finger sticks and urine dips, but the majority of patients came in to see the doctors with colds and coughs.  We had enough antibiotics and also dispensed the usual medicines to our chronic patients.  The pharmacy staff did a great job of stocking shelves,  Phil Catlin, a first-timer who is currently a pre-med student, was awesome.  Please keep us in mind during your up-coming vacations, Phil, because you will always be welcome!

The dental clinic went exceptionally well, with four dentists seeing all patients.  John Grube was busy doing fillings, Stu MacPherson was deep into root canals, Mounir Ashamalla expertly handled the extractions and Dick Klein worked busily with dentures…all assisted by Melodi Willis, Ruthann Quarles and Marilyn Zellet.

Ruthann also delivered a portable dental unit with an x-ray machine, which was graciously donated by Dr. Gary Williams.  We are looking forward to making use of this wonderful donation. Thank you, Dr. Williams AND THANKS TO ALL FOR A JOB WELL DONE!

SPECIAL NOTE

Our chief cook, Ebelia (Bella), was seen by Dr. Gayou, who referred her to a cardiologist.  We are all hoping that she will be feeling better very soon.

VOLUNTEERS

PILOTS:  Brian Coryat, Jim Gaskin, John Grube, Frank Heintz, Ted Kenney, Stu MacPherson Ross Rankin
DENTISTS:  Mounir Ashamalla, John Grube, Dick Klein (Mulege), Stu MacPherson
RDAs:  Melodi Willis, Ruthann Quarles (Mulege), Marilyn Zellet
MDs:  Bob Gayou, David Rose (Mulege)
RN:  Elizabeth Graham           
RMA:  Lola Rosales (clinic coordinator)
TRANSLATORS:  Chari and Brian Coryat, Susan Grube, Bob Openshaw, Lorane Bailon, Lola Rosales, Teresita (San Juanico)
SANTA’S HELPERS:  David and Brian Coryat, Frank Heintz
HELPERS:  Jim Gaskin, Frank Heintz, Phil Catlin, Lyndee and Ross Rankin, Gary Chamber

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