Kevin in the Philippines

As many of you know, I am currently in the Philippines with a surgical team providing plastic surgery procedures for people who would otherwise never have access to these things. I have been here a week and we have kept ourselves very busy. We have worked some days until midnight caring for the patients here. We are doing surgery primarily on patients with cleft lips and cleft palates. In many cases the facial defects are quite severe. Truly it is a life changing thing for these children and their families and they are very humble and thankful to be here. In some cases traveling from hours away. The rotarian organization here has been very involved in this effort. The found most of the patients and had them evaluated in advance. The also made arrangements for their travel here. They have been very kind to us as well by providing lunch and dinner for us everyday and giving us transportation to and from the hospital. On Thursday we attended their weekly meeting and they paid tribute to our team and gave each of us a framed certificate of appreciation. They also recognized my daughter Kelsi for her efforts in raising money for this trip. For those of you that did not know, Kelsi spearheaded a fundraiser at her school and raised $1900. When you include gifts from family and friends, the total exceeds $4400. For those of you who contributed, I want you to know from first hand experience that the money is being used in a great work. Kelsi should also know that the patient's are aware of her efforts and are very thankful. Until next time.......Kevin