Last Day in Tuxpan

Today, Friday 12/4, was our last clinic day in Tuxpan and what a day!
Clinic
1st Sight: A beautiful young mother with a -15 Eyeglasses Prescription held her 9 month old baby as we placed her 1st pair of eyeglasses on her eyes. She stood still for a moment and then her eyes opened wide and she just grinned at us all. Her little baby looked up at her with eyes open wide and she looked back. This time with new sight. We advised her to wear the new glasses for a few hours each day. She rewarded us all with hugs.

Phuong Leaves Us: One of our valued team members, Phong Nguyen representing Essilor Lenses from Australia, had to leave us today. He joined our team for the first week prior continuing on with his business travels. We were so fortunate to have him for this week. He has such a bright spirit and calm, giving personality. Phuong jumped right into whatever was needed i.e. finding glasses using our IMS system, dispensing eyewear to our new friends here in Tuxpan and giving us all support when needed most.

Volunteer Appreciation: After clinic tonight we had so much fun showing appreciation to the 40+ volunteers that helped us. These wonderful people of Tuxpan did so much. We had local high school students, police and firefighters, local Lions Club members, Church leaders and others who managed the set up and organization of this mission from start to finish. As a token of our appreciation, we gave them all eye exams, glasses if needed, sunglasses and small gifts. Without them there was no way we could have conducted this clinic. Thank You EveryOne!

Tuxpan Shows Great Love: After clinic we were hosted by the mayor, Ing. Juan Ramon Ganem Vargas, and his lovely wife, Profra. Julieta Sanchez DeGanem, at a local restaurant. When I first met the mayor he was working along side us, just like any other volunteer and I was surprised to learn of his position. This early introduction was insight into the way that he leads this city. He and his wife did so much to ensure everything was perfect for us. From 5 star meals at lunch each day to tonight's evening of music with 3 bands including a full Mariachi band at dinner. They showed appreciated for the local leaders of DIF Municipall Tuxpan, The Lion's Club of Veracruz and our team. They personally greeted each of our 33 team members and presented certificates of appreciation and gifts. The mayors wife showed her deep feelings as she thanked us for our efforts. It was obvious that months had been spent planning for our arrival and success here in Tuxpan. As a result of these efforts, there are plans in place to provide 15,000 Veracruz residents with cataract surgery to alleviate this common disorder and improve the lives of people in this area. If all city leaders showed the kind of heart we saw here this week, the world would be a better place.

Today, Saturday December 6th, is our day off so stay tuned for news as we explore the Aztec Ruins here in Tuxpan!