VCOM 2023 Annual Report

Serving Beyond Borders: A Journey in Fistula Care

In the summer of 2023, Dr. Porter enhanced her expertise by participating in a fistula training program in Tanzania. Additionally, she attended a medical missionary conference in Turkey alongside her husband Ryan Porter, MD, in the same year, furthering their commitment to serving those in underserved communities. The year wrapped up with a significant achievement for the team as they undertook a 10-day surgical campaign in December, during which they performed a remarkable 30 fistula surgeries. These cases were not without their challenges; some surgeries lasted 4-5 hours due to their complexity. Despite the exhaustion, the team remains profoundly grateful for the opportunity to assist so many women in need and is invigorated by the impact they’ve made. As Dr. Porter continues her journey in providing essential healthcare services to vulnerable communities, she remains steadfast in her commitment to making a difference, one surgery at a time. Dr. Porter's inspiring efforts and the impact of her work on the lives of countless women and communities serve as a testament to the profound difference that VCOM alumni make when driven by a commitment to carrying out the VCOM mission.

I n our November 2020 article “Called to Serve: VCOM-Carolinas Alumna Exemplifies the Mission in Africa,” readers were introduced to Chelsea Porter, DO, VCOM-Carolinas '16, who embarked on a remarkable mission to provide essential healthcare services to women suffering from obstetric fistula in underserved regions of Africa. The article chronicled Dr. Porter’s dedication to addressing the pressing healthcare needs of women in remote areas, where access to medical care is limited, offering life-changing surgeries and comprehensive care to those affected by this devastating condition. In a heartwarming update to our previous coverage, the Danja Fistula Center reopened its doors with renewed vigor. Dr. Porter and an enthusiastic team have worked tirelessly, dedicated to restoring hope and health to women in need. In 2022, the Porters’ adventure expanded to include a new member in their family. They welcomed their first child, a beautiful daughter named Ava. While Ava joyfully accompanies her parents on many of their clinical duties, she also enjoys the care of a dedicated nanny, helping her parents balance their professional and personal lives.

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