02/08/2020
Read about one of the volunteers’ experience with PT GAP’s service trip last year!
“Each person I met in Guatemala (therapists, patients, and interpreters) changed my heart and how I will practice forever. I am more aware of how difficult it is for so much of the world to reach medical services. Many patients traveled several hours - even from different countries - to see us. They spent valuable time and transportation fare to reach our services. This dedication instilled how valuable each second of every treatment is and the importance of giving patients treatments that they can perform anywhere. One aspect of partnering with Hearts in Motion that I love the most is that when they were planning where to plant clinics, they asked people in Guatemala what part of the country had the most need. The overwhelming reply was Zacapa, because it is hot, underdeveloped, and not many people wanted to go there. The therapists with Hearts and Motion and the groups that come annually are often the only source of healthcare for so much of the eastern part of the country. I am so honored to have worked with a sustainable program that is providing not only physical therapy services, but nutrition, daycare, and building construction for so many people in need. I cannot wait to go back and serve with them again soon, and in the meantime, I will be applying what I learned here in Houston.” -Kathleen Frelier (President and Vice Chairperson, Guatemala 2019 Volunteer)
