May 20, 2008

Friends of Guatemala

Dr. Cheryl Kuck a pediatrician from St Marys presented a powerpoint program about her mission trips to Guatemala.  Dr. Kuck is affiliated with the Friends of Guatemala and was accompanied by Teresa Hayes who takes responsibility for many of the organizational and administrative aspects of Friends of Guatemala and was instrumental in forming the group after a trip in 2006.

Guatemala is the second poorest nation in Latin America with Haiti being the poorest.  Nutrition is the most significant problem in the country, especially with the Mayan Indian natives who live in the hills.  On their visits, the missionaries provide medical care to the people who often wait as much as 4 hours to be seen and tend to dental needs as well.  Medicine and supplies are brought in with the cooperation of the government. 

Dr. Kuck shared a wish list of supplies that would be helpful to the group which includes:
    Infant Formula
    Zinc and Iron
    Medicines
    Clothes
    Plastic Pants
    Hygiene Items
    Flouride

Monetary donations can be made by way of the First Financial Bank, 153 E. Spring St, St Marys OH 45885 in the name of Friends of Guatemala.

Hosting Rotarian:  Anne Larger