Reflections on the 71st Medical Mission to the Philippines

By Sung Kyung Gong, Operating Room Staff

Last August, I traveled to the Philippines for a medical mission.

Because it was my first mission trip, I felt very nervous. I had also heard many concerns about safety in the Philippines, so I continued to feel afraid right up until the day of departure.

The First Day

From the moment I woke up until we arrived at the hospital and began preparing, everything felt unfamiliar.

Fortunately, the more experienced staff members offered us a great deal of guidance and support. Thanks to their help, we were able to complete the preparations much more smoothly than expected.

The Second Day

By the second day, the environment no longer felt quite as unfamiliar.

Because each team member had a better understanding of their responsibilities, we were able to prepare more quickly and efficiently.

Many patients with more advanced eye conditions came to the hospital that day, making the surgeries more challenging. Even so, I felt proud and grateful that we were able to provide surgical care to a greater number of local patients.

The Third and Final Day of Surgery

Because it was the final day of surgery, everyone seemed determined to give even more of their energy.

I also approached each procedure with the resolve to remain focused and do my best until the very end.

The most challenging procedure involved a child with congenital cataracts. However, after the surgery was completed, I realized that the difficulty of the case made the experience even more meaningful and rewarding.

As we cleaned and organized the equipment after the final surgery, I felt proud of myself for completing the entire mission in such an unfamiliar environment.

I was also deeply impressed by Dr. Gyung Bai Choi, who continued performing surgeries on his own even though the scrub staff had to take turns because of how physically demanding the work was.

The church elders and senior deaconesses also provided tremendous support throughout the mission, helping us create a safer and more efficient surgical environment.

Although I still had many shortcomings, this medical mission to the Philippines became an invaluable experience and an important opportunity for personal and professional growth.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who supported and helped me throughout the mission.