Video file
In December 2024, a dedicated group of dental students and faculty from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry traveled to Peña Blanca, Honduras, on a mission to assist a local Pan-American Health Service facility. This center cares for malnourished children, typically housing around 25 to 30 young ones who need nutritional and medical support. The facility ensures these children receive the necessary care before reuniting with their families. A vital aspect of this initiative is educating parents on improved nutrition practices to promote a healthier future for their children.
A team of 25 individuals, including participants from the Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) and faculty members Antonio Gonzalez, DDS, and Gary Kerstetter, DDS ‘83, provided healthcare services over a period of five days. Among the team were students from the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Dental Hygiene (DH) programs. Despite inclement weather, which brought significant rainfall throughout the trip, the group treated approximately 430 patients, including all the children and workers in the Pan-American Health facility. Over 1,134 procedures were performed, focusing on essential services like cleanings, fillings, extractions, X-rays, gross scaling, fluoride treatments, and oral health care instruction.
During last year’s visit to the same facility, Dr. Kerstetter observed the children’s beds were becoming worn out. When he spoke with the director, Anita Youngbird, she mentioned that they needed new beds, but their budget wouldn’t allow for it. Before this year’s trip, Dr. Kerstetter worked diligently to raise $1,000 to donate to the organization for the purchase of new mattresses. His dedication to improving the living conditions for these children highlights the generosity of our community.
In addition to their clinical work, students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture. They visited nearby towns where they saw breathtaking scenery, including a stunning waterfall that left a lasting impression on all of the visitors. This mission trip was further supported by a collaboration with La Sierra University and San Manuel Gateway students, who assisted with setup and pre-operative data collection. Their help significantly enhanced clinic operations and increased overall efficiency.
As the trip coincided with the holiday season, the team also took along donated toys and clothes for the children. The excitement and gratitude displayed by the children as they received these gifts were heartwarming and inspiring for everyone involved.
This trip served as a reminder of the significant impact dentistry and healthcare services can have on communities in need. It reinforced the importance of service and education in uplifting individuals from challenging circumstances, exemplifying the values that our alumni continue to uphold in their professional journeys. Reflecting on this enriching experience, we are inspired to carry forward this spirit of service, always remembering our School motto, “Service is our Calling.”