As I sit to document my journey, I can still feel the resonating warmth from our recently concluded medical mission with the Kiwanis Club at Brgy Punta Taytay, Bacolod City. It was more than a humbling experience; it was life-altering. Being a part of a noble cause, aiding humanity in any way possible, filled my heart with inexplicable joy.
Arriving at the coastal village of Punta Taytay on a mellow Saturday morning, we were welcomed with radiant smiles despite the poverty in the surroundings. An island shaped by humble huts and gritty trails, Punta Taytay holds stories that touched our hearts. Our main goal was simple: to deliver essential medical services to those unable to afford it.
Kiwanis Club has always been known for its generosity and social service worldwide. I feel extremely grateful to be part of an organization that puts service above self, continually serving children and communities in need. Collaborating with local medical volunteers and organizations, we successfully turned a local school into a makeshift clinic for the day.
The small, usually buzzing classrooms became silent as patients sat, hoping for some relief from their ailments. The room smelled strongly of antiseptic, blending with the salt-tinged air. I remember the sound of murmured conversations, soft rustling of medical records, and the tapping keys on laptops. With each passing hour, our list of treated patients grew.
From elderly individuals, struggling with chronic conditions, to young children with painful toothaches, every patient left the clinic with more comfort than they arrived with. Alongside basic health check-ups, we distributed much-needed medicines, health kits, and offered valuable health advice.
However, this medical mission was more than just the treatment and medicine we dispensed. It was about the empathetic bonds we created, and the spark of hope we ignited in their hearts. It was in the deep appreciation reflected in the patient’s eyes, the genuine smiles on their faces, and the heartfelt Salamat that left their lips. This reassurance that they were not alone in their battle was truly the healing balm that every individual sought.
Yet, our journey was not one-sided. While we strived to change lives, the residents of Punta Taytay transformed ours in turn. They taught us the value of resilience, courage, and positivity despite the hardships. Witnessing the people, especially the young ones, maintaining a hopeful outlook amidst adversity is a powerful life lesson we returned with.
As we bid goodbye to Brgy Punta Taytay, we knew we had left a part of our hearts there. Though exhausted, we were brimming with fulfillment, carrying with us the lessons, memories, and the humbling gratification of being of service. This medical mission with Kiwanis Club has significantly transformed my outlook towards humanity and service, inspiring me to delve further into serving our less privileged fellow humans.
Affecting a single life can start a ripple of change, and I truly believe our team, along with Kiwanis Club, did exactly that at Brgy Punta Taytay. After all, the essence of life, in its purest form, lies in the simple act of giving.