Late October - Great News

posted by Cheri on Mon. Oct 27, 2008
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We're making wonderful progress on getting the supplies needed to run the clinics for our trip in December. Yay!

Our original goal was to collect everything needed to run the clinics as donated supplies. But then we worried about getting the necessary prescription medications purely through donated items. Plus we knew some folks have the desire to help, but not the time to purchase and mail a bottle of baby vitamins. So we decided, in addition to the supplies donations, we would also take cash donations to be used 100% on supplies, with the excess going straight to Mayan Families.   

Well, it may turn out our original goal may be reached after all.

Last week we received an AMAZING gift from fellow adoptive parents, Debra and Leonard L., who happen to run a pharmacy in Texas. They have offered to donate ALL the prescription medications for the medical clinic. Isn't that FABULOUS?! I can't tell you what a huge boost that is to our efforts.

Then our veterinarian, Meredith, shared great news that the various vet clinic fundraisers are turning out so well, if things continue on this path, they will be fully equipped for the trip. Not to count our chickens before they hatch, it's exciting to see our goals are within reach -- especially when the trip is a mere five weeks away!

And my personal favorite, we are starting to receive donated supplies from folks around the country. I love the idea of a family at Target picking out children's toothbrushes, bandaides, or dog collars for needy people and pets in Guatemala. The personal connection of knowing the item they are holding in their hand will help keep a person, or pet, living hundreds/thousands of miles away more healthy.   

Yay!

The best part about meeting most of our clinic needs through donated supplies and local fundraisers is that all money given to us that isn't used in our clinics will be given to Mayan Families for their ongoing services (food, clothing, shelter, medical, education, micro loans, etc.) all year long. It's good for us to keep remembering that while we will be in Panajachel for 5 days of service work, Mayan Families is there day in and day out for 365 days a year.

Thanks to all of you who are helping with this! I'll keep you updated here as I'm able. But you can also read our group's latest news on our group blog.