April 30, 2015 marks the 40th anniversary of the official end of United States military involvement in VietNam. On that day in 1975, the American Embassy in Saigon was evacuated as the North Vietnamese army entered the city, thereby establishing what they now observe as “Reunification”.
My husband and I have travelled to VietNam to serve on humanitarian aid teams with Vets with a Mission (VWAM).
a husband and wife clown team; Vietnamese had never seen clowns
In 1988VWAM was founded by a small group of VietNam veterans who wanted to make a positive impact on the country in which they had served. Like my husband, many other veterans have served on their teams, as well as their spouses, children and other interested persons.
Every Tuesday in April I will show you the country of VietNam as it has been since the end of that conflict. Please share your thoughts and feelings in the comments.
Use these links to share the heart of health wherever you connect.
In this post I take you on a trip to Panama on a volunteer medical trip. And tour the Panama Canal. I challenge you to find a place that needs your service.
updated June 12, 2026
One of the privileges of being a healthcare professional is traveling to other countries to provide care to local people. I have volunteered on several teams with CompassionLink, an organization whose goal is
equip communities to create healthy families and individuals–spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
Our team provided medical consultations, medicines, dental care, and vision exams for eyeglasses.
Dr. Aletha with a local healthcare worker
our team pharmacy
Jacob, a nurse, is entertaining children (he is now a physician)
One of the pleasures of traveling is when our hosts express their appreciation by showing us the local sites and culture. In Panama, of course, that meant a visit to the Panama Canal, an engineering marvel.
The people and landscape of Panama are also captivating. Add to that a warm and usually sunny climate, made for an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
The Panama Canal is an amazing feat of human ingenuity.
enjoying a dance performance at our last group dinner before heading home
How you can share the HEART of health with Compassion
Maybe you would like to go on a volunteer trip to another country. While there are ample opportunities to do so, there are likely just as many needs in your own community where your time, talent, and willingness could be used.
Try an internet search for local opportunities. This is one place AI could be helpful. Check for places like food banks, animal shelters, hospitals, parks, nursing homes, churches, and schools.
Get creative. Consider what you are good at, interested in, or have skills in. But don’t be afraid to try something new or unfamiliar.
What’s holding you back from making a difference in someone else’s life today?
Exploring the HEART of health
Thank you for reading this post. I strive to make them worth your time.
I share information and inspiration that sparks transformation in your body, mind, and spirit.
You can follow this blog in two easy ways. One is to put your email address into the box below.
Another way is to follow me on Facebook, where I share new posts, timely topics, photos, and an occasional cartoon.
In 1988 VWAM was founded by a small group of VietNam veterans who wanted to make a positive impact on the country in which they had served. Like my husband, many other veterans have served on their teams, as well as their spouses, children and other interested persons.
