Mission Trip to Nicaragua
“We were able to make a difference. Sometimes the simplest solution has dramatic results.”
These are the thoughts of Gerald J. Selvin, O.D., after he and three Optometry students spent four days in Nicaragua this past February. We appreciate the work ODs like Dr. Selvin do around the world and happily support their efforts. We also take pride in sharing the stories of the impact they are making in the optical sector.
About Nicaragua
Image Credit: U.S. Dept. of State
The Central American country of Nicaragua is set between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Bordered to its north by Honduras and to its south by Costa Rica, Nicaragua is known for its diverse geographical regions – the Pacific lowlands in the west of the country, the north central highlands and the Caribbean lowlands.
Among the poorest countries in the Americas, Nicaragua has widespread underemployment and poverty. Primarily an agricultural country, agriculture represents 17% of the GDP – the highest percentage in Central America. Since 2006, tourism has become the second largest industry in Nicaragua.
The majority of Nicaraguans are Mestizos (mixed Amerindian and European), followed by those of European origin, a black population that mainly resides on the country’s Caribbean or Atlantic coasts and finally, the descendants of the country’s indigenous inhabitants.
Mission Trip to Esteli, Nicaragua
On February 15, 2016, Doctor Selvin and 3 Optometry students traveled to the Esteli region of Nicaragua. Located north of the capital, Esteli is situated in the north central highlands.
In conjunction with Fundacion Superemos, a nonprofit organization that focuses on education and health care in Esteli and its surrounding communities, they were able to help 256 people, and distribute 250 readers and 150 sunglasses. They did all this in just four days!
When asked to share his thoughts of the mission trip to Nicaragua, Doctor Selvin says:
“At one of the villages we served, there was a 20 year old man with retinitis pigmentosa. He could not go outside. Simply providing sunglasses enabled him to function. So many middle aged and older people can now read, sew, do all manner or close up work from the readers we were able to provide. We identified patients with serious eye diseases that can now have vision saving treatment. I am looking forward to next February’s trip!”
Pictures from Nicaragua
Jessica Altamirano
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