Like the previous month, the volunteers for the February clinic were met with cool temperatures and a cold breeze in Lopez Mateos. The advance plane with Paul Rowley, Pam McMahon, April Gould and Bonnie Lassen arrived on Friday afternoon and set about preparing the clinic for the next day.
With four airplanes and 17 volunteers the clinic got off to an early start with dentist, Pam McMahon and dental hygienist, April Gould. Arriving early Saturday morning were dentists Greg Frodel and William Hickman along with Erika Sales, dental hygienist. So, once again, we were fortunate to have a total of three dentists and two dental hygienists. Also three medical providers, Mark Brown, Maria Kenneally and Claudia Hart were present. Susan Canale, nurse, handled triage masterfully. Reading glasses and sunglasses were dispensed as well. And a total of 146 services were provided for the patients.
Our trusty pilots were Paul Rowley, Pat McClure, Greg Frodel and Nelson Garrison (a very welcome newbie). Other first time volunteers were April Gould and William Hickman. Although, not new to the Sams, we happily welcomed Pam McMahon back into the fold as well. Serving as interpreters were Cory Lovett, Ana Torres de Luallen, Bonnie Lassen and Kimberly Goff.
Judith Logan is always present to start things up and aid with cleaning and help where needed. Our delicious lunch was provided by Roberto Logan.
The patient waiting area was improved with the addition of gravel to keep down the dirt and pervasive dust thanks to the cannery’s response to our suggestion.
Please remember that the funds that make our clinics successful come from donations and dues payments. Our expenses include purchasing medications, dental and medical items and equipment, cleaning supplies and upkeep on the clinic building. Recently pilots noticed the poor condition of the windsocks at the landing strips in Mulegé and Lopez Mateos. It would be a fine goodwill gesture on our part to supply them. So, if you are interested in either donating funds or purchasing one, please feel free to contact the Trip Coordinator (Pat McClure) for details. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization.
I hope to see some more new faces in our upcoming clinics. The dates are posted on our website:
www.flyingsamaritans.com
Bonnie Lassen