The official beginning of Rotaplast was marked by a site visit to La Serena, Chile in 1992, followed by the organization’s first surgical mission in January 1993.

This inaugural mission was more than a medical effort—it was a proof of concept. A team of dedicated surgeons, nurses, and Rotarians came together with a shared purpose: to restore not only smiles, but dignity and opportunity for children born with cleft conditions.

The success of that first mission ignited something powerful. It demonstrated that a Rotary-led initiative could mobilize both medical and non-medical volunteers to deliver life-changing care across borders.

Among those who helped bring this first mission to life was Paula Fillari, RN, CCRN. She played a critical role behind the scenes—organizing equipment and supplies for that very first mission to Chile in 1993.

Her commitment didn’t stop there.

Paula returned for the second mission to Chile in 1994, helping to establish continuity and operational strength during Rotaplast’s formative years. Today, in 2026, she marks an extraordinary milestone—her 55th mission—a testament to decades of unwavering service and compassion. Our 2026 team has been so lucky to have her with us.

Supporting the mission in equally vital ways was her husband, Gaitano Fillari, who served as the original team quartermaster. His role ensured that every mission had the logistical backbone it needed—from supplies to on-the-ground coordination—allowing the medical team to focus on patient care.

Some leaders step forward boldly from the very beginning. Others grow into their leadership so naturally that, before long, it’s impossible to imagine the mission without them.

 

 

Evelyn Abad is the latter—and her journey with Rotaplast is one of dedication, transformation, and enduring impact

In 1996, while working as Manager of Perioperative Care at St. Luke’s Hospital in San Francisco, Evelyn’s path crossed with Rotaplast in an unexpected way. A nurse scheduled for a mission had to withdraw at the last minute, and Evelyn stepped in.

According to Paula Fillari, a longtime Rotaplast leader, Evelyn’s first mission began quietly. She was reserved, almost shy—observing from the back of the bus, taking everything in.

But by the end of that same mission, something had shifted.

That quiet presence had transformed into a confident, capable leader—someone ready, to take charge

After retiring from her professional career, Evelyn deepened her commitment even further. She stepped into the role of Medical Team Coordinator, becoming a full-time volunteer and a central force behind the success of Rotaplast missions.

In this role, she has contributed countless hours—coordinating logistics, supporting medical teams, and ensuring that each mission runs smoothly from start to finish.

To date, Evelyn has participated in an extraordinary 56 missions. We thank these amazing committed women who along with Founders of Rotaplast; Dr. Angelo Capozzi and Peter Lagarias, have led teams around the world to bright smiles and new beginnings. Thank you from the very bottom of our hearts.