Mission Trip – Final Day: Home Visits in Arequipa

Today was our last day in Arequipa. Breakfast was a little later at 7:00, which was a nice change after many early mornings. After breakfast, Crystal led our devotions.
Later we saw Mosheh again, as he was helping Tania with a presentation about the work they do at their clinic in Arequipa. It was very insightful to learn about all the different services they provide, including physiotherapy, speech therapy, dentistry, and ophthalmology. It was encouraging to see how much care and support the clinic offers to the community.

After the presentation we split into groups to deliver food baskets to people in need. The team delivers these baskets every month. The program started during COVID but has continued because the need remains so great.
I was in Adrianna and Sara’s group, along with Caleigh, Riley, Grace, and Phoebe. Our first visit was to a woman who was confined to a wheelchair and lived with her husband, who was blind. They were very happy to see us. I examined them while Riley and Caleigh checked blood sugars and blood pressures.

Next we visited a group of men connected to Wilma—our cook—through her husband’s church. We examined each of them and offered advice where we could.

We then visited another couple in their home, spending time talking with them and checking on their health.
Across the street was a very sad case that deeply touched all of us. A gentleman had been injured in a traffic accident and was paralyzed from the waist down. His wife and children had left, and he now lived with his 90-year-old mother. She works to pay for a nurse who helps care for him and for basic supplies such as catheter bags.
When we examined him, we found that he had significant bedsores, as we had suspected. It was heartbreaking, and all of us wanted to help. We went to a nearby pharmacy to buy some supplies, and Caleigh carefully cleaned and dressed his wounds. His story stayed with all of us.

After a few more visits we returned to the hotel. I had a shower and then a few of us went out for coffee, which was delicious. I picked up a few snacks to bring home for Ric, and later we all walked into town together for our final dinner.

We had supper at the Casa Andina hotel, where there was a lovely buffet. It was an emotional evening as we said our goodbyes, especially since I would be leaving early the next morning.
What an incredible week it has been.

Mission Trip Reflection – Colca Valley and Arequipa
As I look back on this week in Peru, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this mission. From the clinics in the Colca Valley to the home visits in Arequipa, it was a privilege to serve alongside such a dedicated and compassionate team.
Each day brought new patients, new challenges, and many meaningful encounters. Despite language barriers and limited resources, people came with such openness and gratitude. Whether it was treating medical concerns, offering advice, or simply listening, the interactions were deeply rewarding.
What stood out most was the spirit of teamwork. Doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, dentists, optometrists, pharmacists, translators, and volunteers all worked side by side with a shared purpose. The sense of community among the team—and with the people we met—made the experience even more special.
There were many moments of joy, but also moments that were difficult and humbling. Seeing the realities of poverty and illness reminds us how much access to healthcare can vary around the world. At the same time, the resilience and warmth of the people we met were inspiring.

I return home thankful for the friendships formed, the patients who trusted us with their care, and the chance to be part of work that continues long after we leave. The team here carries on serving their community every day, and it was a privilege to support them, even for a short time. It has been a meaningful reminder of the words of Micah 6:8—to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly.