Bohol, Philippines 2025- Day 4: Little Patients and Big Impacts

Our team had another full schedule of surgeries, kicking off at 8:00 am. Just like yesterday, every procedure was a success! It was wonderful to see our surgeons making their rounds, checking in on yesterday’s patients, and confirming that everyone was recovering well.

Today, we had the privilege of working with our youngest patient: a brave 3-year-old boy who needed hernia surgery. He was peacefully sleeping in his mother’s lap when we arrived. Even after his mother had to leave the room for the procedure, he was incredibly brave during the prep process. The surgery went smoothly, and he recovered well in the PACU. As the anesthesia wore off, he naturally called for his mother, a moment that tugged at all our heartstrings. It was such a relief to see them reunited; he immediately relaxed and felt safe in her arms. They then went to the ward together, ready for the next stage of his recovery. Later in the day, we visited him again and were greeted with a big smile and a thumbs up! It was a truly heartwarming moment.

Beyond the operating rooms, four of our nurses spent time on the pediatric floor, distributing clothing, hygiene items, and toys donated by our communities back home. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces was incredibly rewarding for our nurses; it was a powerful reminder of the impact of these donations.

Alongside the major surgeries, we also have two dedicated doctors focusing on minor procedures this week, including benign mass removals, skin tag removals, and cyst removals. These procedures are also going smoothly and patients are able to leave the hospital the same day.

With the day’s surgeries and procedures complete, the team finally had some well-deserved free time. Some explored the local area, others enjoyed relaxing massages, and we all came together for a team dinner back at the hotel. It was a chance to unwind, share stories, and recharge for another busy day tomorrow.