Last night the Panama VIM team gathered together along with supporters to pack the supply bags for our trip. We are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person without additional charges. Getting all of the supplies we need in the number of bags allotted is a challenge. Here is the room before everyone gets there. The tables are set up and have some of the supplies ready to be packed away.
Our dentists Dr. Pete and Dr. Lori are packing and tagging some of their bags.
Some of the vitamins and medication that were so graciously donated. Our work would not be possible without the generous donations of products and money.
Lynda Stout looks over the medication and vitamins. She is one of our two Pharmacists going on this trip.
The bags are packed and we finally get to rest and have some pizza. What a wonderful evening to gather and work together. We only have 7 extra bags to check. I was shocked we got all of the supplies into the bags. The bags also could not weigh more than 50 lbs so scales were used frequently to determine if one more bottle of cough syrup could be added to a bag.
If we are as good of packers and Jane and Richard Dunn then we will fit our personal clothes and items into our small carry-on bag.
What I learned from last night is we are so very very blessed. The support and generosity from our churches, families, and communities is astounding. We also are blessed to live in a country and communities that have so much to share. It is a blessing for me to be able to be part of this mission.
Cathy Bauer
