06/17/2026
❤️ Volunteer Spotlight: Raluca Anghel ❤️
After more than 22 years in healthcare leadership and 11 mission trips around the world, Raluca Anghel arrived in Majuro ready to serve. What she didn't expect was how deeply the experience would impact her.
One of the moments that has stayed with her since returning home was meeting a young boy who was born deaf (pictured in third photo)
"What touched me most was not only his calm and gentle spirit, but also the remarkable bond he shared with his father. Without spoken words, they communicated through glances, gestures, and an understanding built through years of love and patience."
The boy remained calm throughout his visit, trusting that the team was there to help. Watching the relationship between father and son left a lasting impression on Raluca.
"That experience reminded me that healthcare is not only about treating conditions—it is about creating opportunities and opening doors for patients and their families."
While the patients made a profound impact, so did the people of the Marshall Islands.
"I learned that true strength is found in resilience, gratitude, and community. Despite limited resources, the people we served demonstrated remarkable optimism and generosity."
In fact, one of her favorite memories had nothing to do with the operating room at all. Throughout her healthcare career, Raluca had spent many birthdays working and never expected much celebration. But while serving in Majuro, the Wellness Center team surprised her with not one, but two birthday cakes🎂
"I was completely shocked. Their kindness and generosity touched my heart so deeply that I cried tears of happiness."
As one of her first birthdays as a newly married woman, “being surrounded by people who had become like family made the occasion even more special. It is a memory I will always cherish."
And while this was her 11th mission trip, Majuro left a unique mark on her heart.
"This was my 11th mission trip, but my first in Majuro, and it affected me in a profound way. It renewed my sense of purpose and reminded me why I chose a career in healthcare."
For Raluca, one of the most rewarding parts of the mission was being present for patients throughout their entire surgical journey.
"I had the privilege of scrubbing in for every surgery, watching patients arrive in the operating room, seeing them safely go to sleep, and then witnessing them wake up with the possibility of a better quality of life."
"Working alongside the surgical team gave me a deep appreciation for the impact we were making. While there is still a need for additional equipment and resources, I left knowing that we gave everything we had. In that moment, our skills, commitment, and compassion were enough.
Knowing that each procedure represented a life improved and a family helped was incredibly rewarding."
When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering with Canvasback Missions, her answer was simple:
"You will arrive ready to help others, but you will leave with lessons that stay with you long after the trip is over. It is an experience that challenges you, inspires you, and reminds you of the difference a dedicated team can make."
And perhaps her reflection says it best:
"We traveled to Majuro to serve, but in many ways, the people we met served us too—by reminding us that gratitude, resilience, and compassion are among life's greatest gifts."
Thank you, Raluca, for sharing your heart, your expertise, and your passion for service with the people of the Marshall Islands.🌴💛
If you've ever felt called to use your skills, compassion, or time to make a difference, there may be a place for you on a future Canvasback mission.
🤝Interested in volunteering for future missions?
Apply at: canvasback.org/volunteer
