Dr.Bob Landes in Honduras
In April Dr.Bob Landes joined
the CMDA (Christian Medical & Dental Associations) on a mission to Honduras to outreach to the poor. He participated in a team of doctors, nurses and other volunteers.
I had the opportunity to interview Bob and have him share his experiences in Honduras.
the CMDA (Christian Medical & Dental Associations) on a mission to Honduras to outreach to the poor. He participated in a team of doctors, nurses and other volunteers.
I had the opportunity to interview Bob and have him share his experiences in Honduras.
I:What was the purpose of going to Honduras ?
The purpose was to give on site help to people in a country where medical accomodations are not available to the poor.
The main mission is to provide an entry-point to God's care. The focus is communicating to the people that this mission is only possible because of God enabling it.
I:How long were you there ?
Bob:1 week.
I:Who were in your team
Bob:There were 13 physicians, 3 nurses, a dentist and a pastor. I:Why did you decide to help ?
Bob:I felt called by God to use my physician's skills and serve God's people.
I:How was it there in Honduras ?
Bob:We were located in a small town, "El Parasio" (the Paradise). There is a mix of People are not pressed for time. They are very appreciative. The food was good, it's similar to Mexican but not so spicy. We were staying in a hotel. The weather was nice.
I:What is the approach of working ?
Bob:People first consult with a local pastor. He assesses their needs and directs them to the appropriate clinic. There are three clinics, a dental,medical and eyecare facility. You can see how the approach reflects the mission of the CMDA, which is introducing them to God's work. After the reception of treatment the pastor visits them again to explain to them that this is possible only by the power of God. I:Were there only healthcare professionals who helped ?
Bob:Most of them yes, but not everyone. For instance, it's not always so easy to get the a particular tool or material that we use in a hospital. We used the help of a plumber who could make the tool out of materials that he would buy in a metal shop or he would fix dental equipment.
I:What kind of services were provided ?
Bob:Most of them are medical, dental or eyecare. But also marriage counseling by pastors. One pastor did a radio show. I:Did you like to work with your team ?
Bob:Yes, I liked it very much. The team was exceptional. Everyone in our team went out of their way to give their best.
I:Will you go again ?
Bob:Next year yes.
Thank you Bob for this interview.
The purpose was to give on site help to people in a country where medical accomodations are not available to the poor.
The main mission is to provide an entry-point to God's care. The focus is communicating to the people that this mission is only possible because of God enabling it.
I:How long were you there ?
Bob:1 week.
I:Who were in your team
Bob:There were 13 physicians, 3 nurses, a dentist and a pastor. I:Why did you decide to help ?
Bob:I felt called by God to use my physician's skills and serve God's people.
I:How was it there in Honduras ?
Bob:We were located in a small town, "El Parasio" (the Paradise). There is a mix of People are not pressed for time. They are very appreciative. The food was good, it's similar to Mexican but not so spicy. We were staying in a hotel. The weather was nice.
I:What is the approach of working ?
Bob:People first consult with a local pastor. He assesses their needs and directs them to the appropriate clinic. There are three clinics, a dental,medical and eyecare facility. You can see how the approach reflects the mission of the CMDA, which is introducing them to God's work. After the reception of treatment the pastor visits them again to explain to them that this is possible only by the power of God. I:Were there only healthcare professionals who helped ?
Bob:Most of them yes, but not everyone. For instance, it's not always so easy to get the a particular tool or material that we use in a hospital. We used the help of a plumber who could make the tool out of materials that he would buy in a metal shop or he would fix dental equipment.
I:What kind of services were provided ?
Bob:Most of them are medical, dental or eyecare. But also marriage counseling by pastors. One pastor did a radio show. I:Did you like to work with your team ?
Bob:Yes, I liked it very much. The team was exceptional. Everyone in our team went out of their way to give their best.
I:Will you go again ?
Bob:Next year yes.
Thank you Bob for this interview.
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Bob will give a presentation about his trip some time after Vacation Bible School.
Stay tuned for more details!
Previous 'People of the month'
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