There’s just been so much going on I’ve hardly had time to write a blog post!
The big news is that I’m off to the Philippines in June for another Medical Mission with Operation Smile. We’ll be going to communities ravaged by Typhoon Yolanda. Just typing Yolanda made me smile. Years ago I found a business card for a masseuse who called herself “Yoland with the velvet touch.” I hadn’t thought of that in who knows how long. MMS (MadeMeSmile, it’s the new LOL).
But back on topic I’ll be chaperoning 3 American High Schoolers who’ve worked hard for Operation Smile. The 4 of us are going as the Goofball Playologists. I admit I made up the title. But how good would that look on a résumé? Put that on right next to Smiley Captain and you’ll be irrresistable.
Getting back on topic, again. We’ll wear clown noses while we sing and dance, and do somersault, art projects and math puzzles. All this to while away the waiting time with the patients. The American HighSchoolers also teach important health modules to the patients and their families.
Those kids we’ve played with will all have a friend (me & the high schoolers) to walk them to the Operating Room and stay with them until they fall asleep. As the Lovey-Dovey-Parent-Liaison (another made up title) we’ll hold hands with and give hugs, hankies and updates to parents nervously waiting while their child gets their brand new beautiful smile. And when the surgery is done, we’ll bring mom or dad into recovery. HOW DID I GET SO LUCKY?!
Smile. Be happy. Be happier!!
Ruth
Here’s Eliana with her new smile. We met last year at the hospital in Paraguay where the Operation Smile team gave 100 children and a couple of adults new smiles! Since then, Eliana and I have been pen pals. You can read a series of blogs from that trip here. I’ll be blogging and posting pictures and videos from the Philippines. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU KNOW OF MEDIA OUTLETS THAT MIGHT LIKE TO BE INCLUDED.
