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
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Mother Teresa, the Saint of Calcutta, visited Peoria, Illinois in 1960, emphasizing the importance of being helpful rather than successful. Her teachings, encapsulated in “No Greater Love,” reflect her commitment to serving the poor and embody the essence of love, generosity, and faith in God as a Christian. Enjoy the photos from her memorial.
I’m glad you found this post about Mother Teresa. I’d love for you to visit an updated version at this link.
Mother Teresa visited Peoria Illinois in 1960 to speak before a Catholic women’s group. She told them,
God has not called us to be successful, but to be helpful.”
Mother Teresa
The saint, Mother Teresa, lived her life committed to the purpose she felt called to do- take care of the poor, sick, and suffering people in India.
“No Greater Loveis the essential wisdom of Mother Teresa — the most accessible, intimate, and inspiring book of her teachings. Thematically arranged to present her revolutionary vision of Christianity in its graceful simplicity, the book features her thoughts on love, generosity, forgiveness, prayer, service, and what it means to be a Christian. A passionate testament to deep hope and abiding faith in God, No Greater Love celebrates the life and work of one of the world’s most revered spiritual teachers.”
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Exploring the HEART of Health
I’d love for you to follow this blog and follow me on social media.
I share information and inspiration to help you transform challenges into opportunities for learning and growth.
Add your name to the subscribe box to be notified of new posts by email. Click the link to read the post and browse other content. It’s that simple. No spam.
I enjoy seeing who is new to Watercress Words. When you subscribe, I will visit your blog or website. Thanks and see you next time.
watercress words by Dr Aletha 