VCOM 2018 Annual Report

Elexander Atkinson

VCOM-Carolinas, Oct 2017

“ The medical outreach trip to El Salvador was both humbling and refreshing. I was humbled by the people we treated during our time there. They were so grateful for our care even though they waited all day to see us. They were grateful to receive 30 pills of ibuprofen. I can’t imagine not being able to go to the drug store and

buy a bottle of ibuprofen for a headache or joint pain. Seeing these people’s lives changes the way I view my life and all the opportunity and privileges I have. It was refreshing to get out of the classroom and practice medicine that I have been learning about for the past two years. It reminded me of why I wanted to become

a doctor and why I am going to school. The trip was exactly what I needed, when I needed it. I hope to continue to participate in trips like this one throughout my career. I am very grateful for this opportunity that VCOM provided me and would encourage all students to go on a trip if possible. ”

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