A Day of Hope

​This weekend, I volunteered for the Convoy of Hope, an organization that travels around the country to give communities a day of hope. They provide free medical, dental, vision exam and treatment. During the event, participants receive free groceries, shoes, job resources, help with resume writing, breast cancer consultation, food (Chick-Fil-A sandwiches, chips, cookies, fruits), drinks, entertainment, games, new backpacks filled with school supplies, and so much more.  It is a wonderful service to help local families with food shortage and students with school supplies.  Everyone was welcomed.  Each child received a free pair of new shoes while each families received 2 bags of groceries.  Those who signed up for dental service received free exams, x-rays, cleanings, fillings and extractions.  The lines were long but we had over 20 dentists, 4 hygienists, 12 dental assistants, and 30 young community volunteers to help move things along.  Our own assistant, Khrysha came to help.  The pre-dental and dental students came out in force as well.  I was so proud to see a lot of the same faces that volunteered years earlier.
I met my partner at 8 am as we both headed to the same chair for triage.  She had the loupe light to do the exam so she said, "I will be your light”.  Somehow between the two of us with our limited Spanish, we were able to examine about 80 patients in 5 hours, comprende? When she realized I was managing the flow of the clinic, she said she was partnered up with the wrong person because she was working too hard. Then she said she had such a wonderful time and felt so good about giving back to the community. Everyone there was eager to help and willing to step up.  There was a warm fuzzy feeling felt by all.
By the end of the day, we were all exhausted but still jovial. Our good deed for the weekend was done. Patients walked out of the clinic with less pain and a grateful heart for the services received. We gave every leftover item we had to those who were there to receive. This organization, along with all the donors, sponsors, and volunteers changed thousands of families’ lives in just one day. I wish there were more of these events to lessen the burdens of our neighbors more often. But any amount of kindness will do.  A huge thank you to all the people who helped made this event a big success.  Your involvement changed lives.