Reflections on a Life-Changing Week: My Experience as a Volunteer in a Cardiac Mission

Volunteerism in the medical field is crucial for addressing healthcare disparities and improving access to care. By dedicating their time and skills, healthcare professionals are reaching underserved communities, offering essential services that improve both patient well-being and their own professional growth. These experiences deepen their understanding of diverse patient needs and foster a more empathetic approach to care.

Dr. Fanuel, one of our dedicated volunteers, shares his thoughts:

My time as a volunteer during this week-long mission has been incredibly rewarding. From the start of the week, I was struck by the dedication of my fellow volunteers, GIV Society Ethiopia’s Core organizing team as well as that of the cardiac surgeons and interventionists from Heart attack Ethiopia. Working alongside such dedicated professionals has deepened my appreciation for teamwork in healthcare.

Each day brought new challenges that demanded flexibility and open-mindedness from our team. I can confidently say that seeing patients' lives transformed through cardiac interventions done by the mission team and in one instance, an emergency procedure that saved the life of a patient who had a cardiac arrest made every moment worthwhile.

I volunteered because I believe in the power of medicine to change lives. When I heard of this mission through the GIV website, I was reminded of an inspiring time at the beginning of my medical school journey when the nation donated for the cardiac center with the slogan "One Birr for One Heart." Now, as a general practitioner, I knew I was capable of providing support through my profession to these amazing cardiac interventionists. Additionally, I wanted to gain first-hand experience from experts in the field.

He adds, “I expected to encounter challenges, especially in terms of the patient data logistics and informed consent processes. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the level of organization and support provided by my fellow volunteers and GIV Society Ethiopia team, who made sure we were adaptable to the rapidly changing demands of supporting the paperwork of 40 plus cardiac interventions done in one week. It was inspiring to see the gratitude and hope in the eyes of patients who got this opportunity especially the patient whose life was saved after presenting with an emergency coronary artery disease and who left the hospital walking after just three days of stay, an outcome impossible without this mission and it reaffirmed my commitment to this field."

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our volunteers who consistently give back to the community. Your dedication makes a meaningful difference.