You may have seen an impactful story from a nursing student named Hannah Kiritsy from the Duke School of Nursing (DUSON) in the winter, 2024 edition of the Grassroots newsletter. As part of their community health course, Hannah and nine other Duke Nursing students journeyed to the remote, rural Guatemalan highlands on their spring break last year to volunteer at the Casa Materna. I was so impressed by their stores that I thought they all should be shared.
The idea for the partnership between DUSON and then Curamericas Global actually came about 10 years before this trip as detailed in the May 2023 article “The Duke School of Nursing and Curamericas Global: A Brief History and Celebration of Our Partnership.” Since that idea was first launched, more than 70 Duke nursing students have volunteered with the program, even working remotely during the Covid pandemic.
After reading each story, I was struck by the common theme of “giving and giving back.” Kudos to these students who gave of their money, their skills, their time, and yes, their hearts. I would like you to hear in their own words what they thought about a journey that was not without risk and certainly took courage.
Hannah and fellow student, Tyeisha Jones compiled these stories after they returned from Guatemala. When I recently chatted with Tyeisha about the trip she fondly said, “I think about it every day.” (And to show their enthusiasm for the work of Impact Global Health Alliance, they also organized their own Mom-A-Thon fundraiser which raised $20,000!). We’ll hear from Hannah, Tyeisha, and fellow student Emily Petroni in this first article in a series. I’ll be sharing more in the near future.
Enjoy!
HANNAH KIRITSY
These two photos are my favorites from the trip, each encapsulating a transformative moment that reshaped my life. The photo to the left, of Dr. Mario Valdez, a beacon of passion and dedication to Impact Global Health Alliance. We captured this moment after an exhilarating day in Tuxlaj, where we had the profound privilege of assisting in the birth of our first baby in Guatemala. On Wednesday August 14th, our day began. At dawn, around 6 AM, as we climbed into the back of Dr. Mario’s truck, our hearts racing with anticipation for the scenic yet BUMPY ride up the mountainous roads to the Casa Materna. Little did we know, we were about to witness a truly remarkable birth. As the day unfolded, we engaged in ultrasounds, fundal measurements, and prenatal visits, all deepening our sense of purpose and connection to the community. Then, the moment arrived—Mama was ready to push. Without a moment’s hesitation, we joined Señora Juany and the nurses on-site, offering support and encouragement as this young mother prepared to bring her first child into the world. In that pivotal instant, while helping her change positions and providing care, I felt an undeniable calling to pursue a nursing career in labor and delivery. This entire journey ignited a flame within me—one that fuels my passion and commitment to healthcare. It was a beautiful experience that I will carry with pride as I step into my future.
TYEISHIA JONES
Selecting just one favorite moment from this trip is quite challenging. Before we departed, I felt a deep sense of loneliness and anxiety, as it was my first time out of the country and away from my son and family. However, the experience turned out to be transformative. Upon our arrival, I was warmly greeted by the woman in the photo above, Señora Alma. From that moment on, we formed an immediate bond, as if we had known each other for years. Señora Alma exhibited remarkable strength, especially during a challenging situation we faced together. Despite showing emotion, she demonstrated unwavering dedication as a nurse, treating me as if I were her own. I cannot express enough gratitude to her. She made me laugh, smile, and we shared tears—an experience I will always cherish. This trip solidified my decision to pursue a nursing career. It inspired me to remain committed to this path, regardless of the challenges ahead. I realized there are people who need our support, which motivates me to strive for excellence in the future. I gained more knowledge and experience than I anticipated, and I am excited about what lies ahead. This trip was truly remarkable, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything; it is an unforgettable chapter in my life.
EMILY PETRONI
Reflecting on my time in Guatemala brings countless moments that still make me smile. Before the trip, I was skeptical, not realizing how much I needed this experience. However, it filled a void I never knew existed. Impact Global Health Alliance, in partnership with the Casa Materna in Calhuitz, offered us the chance to learn from local nurses and immerse ourselves in their culture. One standout memory was when we exchanged presentations with the nurses, sharing knowledge about birth and labor. It was a beautiful collaboration, not a competition. Mealtimes were equally special—sitting together around a large table, enjoying home-cooked meals, and reflecting on our day. This trip rekindled my passion for nursing and reaffirmed my commitment to helping others and serving the community. The memories and lessons from Guatemala will stay with me forever.
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Do you know anyone who may want to volunteer with us? With just two fulltime staff, volunteers help us focus our efforts on our programs. You can go abroad, volunteer from home on a regular or one-time basis. We will match your skills and interests with our needs to make an impact together. Click here to learn more and take action today!
