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Paul Neis, MD; Dody Neis, RN; and Brenda Swindle, Certified Scrub Tech, recently participated in a medical mission to Antigua, Guatemala, in partnership with the Medical Missions Foundation. The mission took place over eight days at Obras Sociales del Santo Hermano Pedro Hospital, where a team of physicians specializing in otolaryngology/ENT (ear, nose, and throat) and urology surgeons performed 72 life-changing operations.
Dr. Neis, an ENT physician, provided crucial interventions for both adults and children, many of whom had no access to specialized care. When asked why he chose to participate in the mission, Dr. Neis shared, “It’s very fulfilling! You have the opportunity to perform life-changing surgeries for people who have no other way to get it. One of the women I performed surgery on drove over 10 hours to have the procedure done.”
Dody worked diligently in the post-operation recovery unit, ensuring that patients received the care they needed after surgery. Brenda assisted directly in the operating room, helping with the preparation and execution of each surgery to ensure the highest standard of care.
Dr. Neis stated, “My job would have been much more difficult had Brenda not been part of the group. She was able to help make the best of situations when equipment and supplies were not what we were used to.”
The Medical Missions Foundation, a nonprofit organization, partners with healthcare professionals to provide free medical care to underserved populations worldwide. For many, these surgeries represent not only a medical intervention but also a chance at a better quality of life.
Baxter Health is very proud of Dr. Neis, Dody, and Brenda, and their dedication to providing high-quality care both locally and internationally. Their participation in this mission reflects Baxter Health Staff’s commitment to providing compassionate care beyond measure.
