A Memorable Experience in Ghana (April 2026)

A community of heart, that is rich in tradition and rich in foods, with herbal medicine playing a role in the medical treatments people seek.  The mission was simple, provide eye screenings to those who do not have access, and treat medical conditions that can lead to vision problems long term.  We bought and delivered glasses from the United

States which were given to those that needed them as well.  We also administer testing for HIV, Hepatitis B, C and Malaria and either direct treatment or resources for treatment by working with the local health department of West Akim Health Directorate. 

On the first day, patients were lined up eager to be seen, some not having medical care for years.  Some children had not even seen pediatricians since birth, even at 7 or 8 years old.  We provided pediatric care and also adult care, with medical providers for both.  We had pharmacists providing medications for common conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, malaria, acute pain, different eye conditions, and various vitamins/supplements.  Utilizing local health care workers, we provided an experience for the whole community to be involved. 

Over the next 3 days, we were able to provide over 800 glasses to the patients, and over 1200 patients were seen between adult and kids.  We saw cases of malaria, sexual abuse, HIV, bronchiolitis, diabetes, hypertension, abscesses, and many other chronic conditions.  Patients that had more emergent cases were provided with referrals for specialists or to local hospitals for continued care.   We heard stories of pain, hope and survival from the people who have lived in the area most of their lives, some have never even traveled outside the region.  Stories of strength, and how local spices and herbs are weaved into their diet and lifestyle to provide health.  There were tears of joy, and heartfelt gratitude seen on the faces of the patients, and everyone that participated in the mission.    

The most memorable case was a 7-year-old boy weighing in at 10 kg, with a holosystolic heart murmur, genetic facies, and severe malnutrition and undergrowth, with no diagnosis.  He was born at 7 months, and spent several months in the NICU, lost to follow up with little resources, he was never given a proper diagnosis or treatment options.  However, upon seeing him, and discussing the severity of his condition with the family, they will be getting referrals to a regional hospital that has specialists for the patient.  The family was thankful and the boy’s warm smile will never be forgotten.

The mission came with several challenges that tested our flexibility and planning. Transporting medical supplies proved difficult intercontinental.  We had difficulty getting medical equipment to Ghana due to baggage fees, and due to the uncooperativeness of the Customs division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) incurred a large fee that was not planned for.  We also underestimated the quantity of some medications needed, given the high number of patients served. Cultural differences in timing and workflow required adaptability, while language barriers occasionally made communication more complex despite support from local partners.

These experiences provided valuable lessons that will help improve the planning and effectiveness of future missions. We hope we can go back again, with even considering home visits for the disabled, and continue to serve a community of amazing people from all religious backgrounds.  The lessons and eye-opening experience of what medicine is like in Asamankase will not soon be forgotten.  While the children have some access via insurance to some specialists, there is still lacking health care overall, for multiple reasons.  We are glad we were able to have a small impact on many in the region.