Perspectives: 10 years in global health

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Written by Stanley Park

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I’ve been involved with Project Nicaragua, a medical missions NGO, since I was an undergraduate student. We started off as a couple of naïve but excited college friends looking to make a "big change" in the world. After a decade’s worth of growing pains, we have grown to a humble five-chapter organization and have sponsored dozens of medical missions trips. We struggled in recent years as several founding members got busier in their careers and personal lives. Adjustments were made and we eventually learned to work within our abilities. I initially felt guilty not being able to contribute as much as I used to. As an ophthalmology resident at Ohio State, my role in Project Nicaragua now is more peripheral and I have learned to be okay with this.

 

The biggest lesson I’ve learned over the years is being happy with the capacity which I am able to give. I don't have to be a martyr and my joy from being a part of the cause is just as important. This was so important for me to understand and I’m a better person for it. I still hope to expand my involvement in global health once my training is over by doing eye cases overseas. Until then, I find great joy in mentoring the next generation of excited college friends looking to make a big change.