NAVMC took 18 medical professionals to Bolivia the first week of November. The team saw almost 50 people in clinic and booked 36 patients. We performed 40 procedures including many gallbladder removals, hysterectomies, uterine and bladder prolapse repairs, lipoma removals, and hernia repairs. Dr. Andy Aldridge and Dr. Carolina Martinez repaired an inguinal hernia on our youngest patient to date. He is just seven and can go back to playing soccer and running on the playground with his friends, pain free. This was Flagstaff local, Dr. Phil Williams, first year with the campaign and dare I say he is hooked. The women of Bolivia (and the entire team) appreciated his calm demeanor and exceptional surgical skills. This year we also had the honor of Dr. Michael Collier. Michael spent time at the clinic in Palacios and most of the surgical week with us in Portachuelo to document through photographs the work we do. We even got to visit Samaipata, hang out with Dr. Douglas and Bolivian journalists, and celebrated the week’s culmination at Dr. Espinoza’s house.  A big shoutout to Ethicon for their continued support with supply donations and Exparel, who helps our patients with pain control in a country with very little to offer in that regard. Thank you to everyone who contributes to this worthy cause with their time, money, and support. It was an incredible trip!

Gracias!

Amy