The final two days of a mission must work like clock-work. Each case is given a final post-operative assessment and several patients require burn dressing changes performed under anesthesia because otherwise they are just too painful to bear. In the meantime we begin repacking the countless boxes and take inventory on every item brought into the country all while planning a small event to properly thank the hospital staff of doctors, nurses, and countless technicians for their incredible hospitality and attend an incredible closing ceremony in our honor and attended by many of the patients and their families served over the past twelve days.
There are so many stories we bring home to share with family and friends. One especially sweet memory will be the 2 1/2 year-old sibling of this infant patient who was brought to the hospital to see his little sister. After studying her intently he told his mother not to bring this baby home – it was not his sister. The transformation was that complete – she is now beautiful inside and out.
And, to this magnificent young patient whose courage can not be measured – “You are strong, you are brave and you are so very beautiful. We love you and will see you next year!”
Nothing speaks to a successful mission then already beginning to plan Rotaplast’s 2021 return to Nagamangala. The hospital, local Rotarians, and entire mission team are excited to begin the complex orchestration of activities to serve again next year. We were moved beyond words by the lives touched and warmth of all we met. On behalf of the entire Nagamangala 2020 mission team – out deepest thanks for the honor to represent Rotaplast International. For all that we gave, we were given so much more.
The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
― Mahatma Gandhi