A patient awaiting surgery sits in the ward, smiling as they color with markers, thanks to the efforts of our team’s recreation therapist, Trina Coffman-Gomez. The bright colors and playful activity provide a welcome distraction, easing the patient’s anxiety and bringing joy to their day. Trina’s dedication to offering comfort through creative engagement is making a profound impact on the patients, helping them feel more at ease during their medical journey.

Jeanne Kille, RN, smiles as she holds up supplies, carrying them into the operating rooms to ensure all necessary equipment is ready. The ORs, or “operation theatres” as they are called in Uganda, were bustling with activity. Nurses and doctors worked together seamlessly, preparing for the day’s surgeries and embodying the collaborative spirit of the mission.

In the bustling PACU, Anesthesiologist Dr. Leigh Pederson shakes hands with RN Luzviminda Accos, both smiling warmly. This moment of camaraderie reflects the collaborative and supportive environment that defines our mission, as team members work together to provide the best care possible for our patients.

OR Nurse Jeanne Kille, with the assistance of local medical professional Efrance, carefully fills a syringe. This collaborative effort highlights the invaluable partnership between our team and the local healthcare workers, working together to ensure the best possible patient care during the mission.

Surgeon David Morwood collaborates with a local medical professional on a case in the OR. This teamwork exemplifies the spirit of our mission, blending expertise from both our team and local staff to provide exceptional care to patients.

A young Ugandan patient smiles as he rests in bed in the ward, recovering from his surgery earlier in the day. In the background, his mother lays on the same bed, sharing in his relief and comfort.

Lead PACU Nurse Paula Fillari, RN, CCRN, carefully knock the air bubbles out of a syringe while Luzviminda Accos, RN, closely inspects the process. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures the highest level of patient care and safety, reflecting the dedication and precision of our medical team during the mission.

COVID Safety Officer Dr. Arzoo Salami administers a COVID test to a patient to ensure they are negative before undergoing surgery. This crucial step underscores our commitment to maintaining a safe environment for both patients and staff, highlighting the importance of rigorous safety protocols during the mission.

Lead Anesthesiologist Dr. Mark Singleton conducts a safety discussion with our entire Rotaplast team, along with local medical professionals and interns from Kiruddu National Referral Hospital in Uganda, before beginning any cases. This comprehensive briefing emphasizes the importance of safety protocols and collaborative communication, ensuring everyone is aligned and prepared for the day’s procedures.