On January 21-25, l997, the Medical Mission completed its final operation in Gapan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. This mission started a year ago here in Kansas City. The combined efforts of the members, families and friends of PNAGKC, PMS, Platte County Rotary Club and FAGKC, made this mission another reality. Every contribution of its planners, organizers, fund raisers, donors and supporters, paved the way for the completion of this mission. Through this mission, Gapan District Hospital received a total of 17, 200 kgs. or 35,000 lbs. of hospital equipment and supplies. In five days, thirty four missioners have dramatically changed the lives of around 1,159 patients.

Leaving our families, the comforts and securities of our homes, we endured a grueling 26 hours flight from Kansas City to Manila. It was at the wee hours of the morning when we reached our final destination in Cabanatuan City, where we crashed for the much awaited rest. The next few days came fast as we sorted and prepared our equipment for the work ahead. We worked hard for 10-14 hours a day in a small district hospital with very limited personnel and resources. The adaptability, resourcefulness, endurance, humor and patience of the team members made it all pleasantly manageable. Working alongside the local doctors, nurses and their ancillary members, we learned from each other. We experienced "highs," and we had our "lows." Together, we managed our difficulties and celebrated our victories as a team.

Words are not enough to describe the pride and deep satisfaction to be a part of this team who have touched and changed many lives. This mission has eased the physical, mental, and emotional suffering of patients afflicted with tumor, deformity and/ or disability. PNAGKC was part of that team as Sonia Tumanut, Cora Zamora, Regina Ancola- Upton,Theresa Cain, Emma Florentino, Maricon Banks and I were there to witness the small miracles.

We gave a 15 year old girl her sight back, after being blind for 8 years. When Olive lost her sight at age seven, she made a "panata." From then on, she went to church everyday and crawled on her hands and knees from the door of the church to the foot of the altar, begging for a miracle. Her prayers were answered. This medical mission was instrumental in making her miracle happen. With tearful eyes and joyful heart, she thanked the missioners who gave her back, the gift of sight. Now she can start learning to read again, see her reflection in the mirror, and marvel at the cascading crimson and orange hues of a sunrise. We saw patients who have lived with and endured crippling pain for years. Our missioners freed them from their pain and gave them a chance to have happier and fuller lives. Renren, a sensitive and shy little girl, will no longer be mocked and taunted as "pilas" by her peers . Our missioners repaired her cleft lip. We granted her wish to beam a beautiful smile as she proudly walks straight and tall as a flower girl. Now she has the chance to grow up just like the other kids. There are many more heartwarming stories to tell, each one significant, but we can only name a few.

First row: Reggie Ancola-Upton, Amy Mesina, Theresa Cain Back: Vicky Herrera, Dr. Rolly Mesina, Sonia Tumanut, and Cora Zamora

"We are very tired but it feels good."

We have accomplished our mission because YOU have cared enough to play your role in our team. It took teamwork to achieve our goals. We thank all those who have participated in any way, shape or form in making this mission successful, meaningful and memorable. Through this mission, we gave the people of Gapan, a new beginning and a lasting gift of hope. The work that we have started will continue long after we have gone. Today, Gapan District Hospital has the capability to give a better and safer medical- surgical services to its community.

Congratulations to all the team members for a job very well done. We did, what we promised we will do, and so much more, par excellence!!!