July 21, 2011

Day Three Thursday

By tvermande

Thursday Day Three

Last night we all were able to enjoy some of the culture of Paraguay when the Paraguayan National Futbol Team defeated Venezuela in a shootout at the Copa Americana being held in Argentina. The city went from being a ghost town to having every person in the city in the streets with fireworks and a car parade in a matter of seconds. Paraguay will play Uruguay for the title Sunday, which we will be planning our day around.

Today started out rainy which again kept many people away. Even though we only saw 800 people each of them came away happy. At least two groups today showed up filled with people in flatbed semi trucks. One of the groups came from the border with Bolivia, a seven hour drive on dirt roads. We heard stories about people taking up to ten hours to get here and staying overnight tonight so they can attend the clinic in the morning. Another 30 people were referred for cataract surgery.

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As part of the dispense team today, I enjoyed seeing the smiles on the faces of those who were seeing well for either the first time, or the first time in a while.  It was especially meaningful to see the children who had experienced their first eye exams and received a great new pair of glasses or sunglasses as well as a balloon animal from Nuno.  He made each and every one feel special.  Happy Birthday Nuno!  FYI, Nuno is now a celebrity as he has been featured on the Paraguayan News several times!  Even though we did not reach our goal again today, it certainly feels good to be able to help those that came today.   --- Carol

 

“You have not lived until you have done something for someone who can never repay you” author unknown…what an experience...day three was another successful day, lots of people helped, some surgeries performed, and many many smiles…friendships being made…some to last a lifetime…Thanks to the people of Paraguay for the awesome welcome…

--- M Ross

 

Terry still has not received his luggage.  I feel for him in his random reminders towards his misery.  This has not stymied his spirits towards helping those truly in need.  Please send Terry some clothes and luggage! 

---  Dr. Steve

 

Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears…..

I spent the day working with two different doctors in IMS where we choose the pair of glasses closest to the patient’s prescription.  It’s not always perfect but they are always grateful.   I really enjoyed getting to choose sunglasses for a few kids.  It’s amazing how happy the people here are even though they have so little.  I’m humbled by everyone I say ‘hola’ to. 

-Rebecca

 

 

 

5 Comments

  1. Gabriella says:

    Day Three Thursday - I’m so excited to join this spectacular mission with Paraguay team 2011.
    Intensive emotions :) and really happiness to share with fantastic people this experience.
    All together come from all over different parts of the world and we are all together for one goal, give a smile and the sight to this community.
    People are coming from different parts of the state of Paraguay, sometimes very far…and it´s a pleasure help them.
    Thanks to my italian friends to feeling me at home and thanks to all new my friends american,canadian portuguese, german, switzerland and philippine..to make this experience so great. Enjoy :))) Gabriella

    Posted on Thu Jul 21, 2011 10:49 pm EST

  2. Barb says:

    Hello to Joanie and the entire Paraguay team!
    We are so proud of you and everything you are doing to help the people of Parauay see.  Keep up the good work.  p.s Love the blogs!

    Posted on Fri Jul 22, 2011 6:23 am EST

  3. Maureen K. says:

    Greetings to Dave, Trish and the entire Paraguay clinic team,
    Wishing you great success, inspiring moments and wonderful memories from the very important service you are providing!
    Maureen K.

    Posted on Fri Jul 22, 2011 11:12 am EST

  4. Randi Benlulu says:

    Good luck to you all!  Make the most of every minute. It ends way to quickly!

    Posted on Fri Jul 22, 2011 11:20 am EST

  5. wendy moltz and dr. carole says:

    Today, I got an amazing opportunity to see a live cataract surgery up close performed by the VOI team. It was truly amazing to help someone who was almost blind to be able to restore their vision.  The clinic is up to 40 surgeries per day starting Monday. This has truly been an amazing experience!  We are so fortunate to be a part of a Luxottica Retail Group Foundation, Onesight!!

    Posted on Sun Jul 24, 2011 7:18 pm EST

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