Where were you for Dia De Los Muertos? This SDAMN member got the privilege and unique opportunity to celebrate the dead by helping to change the lives of the living; creating what the patients call their new life. Long hours, lots of caffeine, and the most caring individuals made dreams come true as one by one the teams of surgeons (lead by Dr. Tara Aghaloo), pediatricians, surgical techs, and nurses fixed facial abnormalities (cleft palates and lips) and placed ear tubes in children. Teams came from all over including Loma Linda, UCLA Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and Nurses from San Diego National Association of Hispanic Nurses.

They were supported by the selfless efforts of the El Cajon chapter of the Rotarty Club. If you have not heard of the Rotary Club, you may have well not heard of Angels. They brought their high school students and spouses who labored endlessly supplying clerical support and delicious snacks for the volunteers, and sandwiches for the families that travels hours or even days to come get their child the medical attention they needed.

Physically exhausted, but with renewed hope and spirit, this Man of Nursing will be back in February emotionally/spiritually ready to change the world…. well at least a few bright, and ready to smile, faces!