Since I have returned from my study abroad trip to Jamaica, I often find myself recalling on my time there. It was one of the best experiences I have ever encountered. My memories are vivid and I feel like I got to fulfill one of my life’s many missions. I love to help people and I had an amazing time doing just that.

I first heard about this program when the dental hygiene students from the previous year shared their stories. I was taken back by their journey. I just knew I wanted to be a part of such a great opportunity. When I applied, I was praying and hoping that if I spoke from the heart that it would see me through. Shortly after, I received my acceptance letter.

The months leading up to the trip were spent fundraising and collecting supplies. At first everything seemed to be going slow, but as it got closer to leaving, the pace picked up. We ended up having more than enough in supplies, we donated some items for the students who will be going after us. The days leading up to the trip we had Hurricane Matthew in the way, causing some trouble. It went from being a category 2, to a 4, then a 3, and back to a 4. It was jumping all over the place. It was said to go over Jamaica directly and cause so much destruction but it ended up going through Jamaica and Haiti. Sadly, causing more destruction in Haiti. Jamaica was fortunate and did not get hit by hurricane Matthew. When we received the call, notifying us that this study abroad trip was still on, we were so thrilled. We were originally supposed to leave Saturday the first of October and then ended up leaving the fifth of October. It was a surreal moment because we were headed to Jamaica!

Once we arrived to Jamaica we put our items in our rooms and started to work that evening. We were a part of 1000 Smiles Team of Great Shape, Inc.  We arrived a day later than the other groups that were assigned to go that week so, that evening we organized the staff clinic, helped with inventory, and sharpened some instruments. The following day was the first day of clinic and we all were ready to see our first patients. I worked at the Exchange Clinic that day along with Rachel, Kat, and Alyssa. I was a tad bit nervous because I did not know what to expect. Karen and Samantha the wonderful hygienists at that clinic, gave us a quick overview and after that were good to go. I was team lead that day and so I started off helping everyone get set up. I floated during the first round of patients and soon after that I got to see my own.

The people of Jamaica are so kind, happy and filled with love. That day I saw a twenty-six-year-old male who never received a cleaning before. I was so delighted to be the first clinician to see him through. He had some extensive build up but was very strong throughout the entire appointment. He had no complaints. When we were finished with the appointment, he kept thanking me and shaking my hand. I felt his gratitude that he got the opportunity to get his teeth cleaned.

The next day I worked at the staff clinic and that was good too because I got to assist the dentist and see my own patients in between. That day was that most challenging because of the patient overload and there only being two hygienists and one dentist. At the same time, it was also pleasing to serve the people of the resort that help to serve us in return. That night we had dinner, with everyone from the team 5, at a local place that was known to have the best jerk chicken in the area. The food was delicious and I even ordered a second plate to go.

The following day was Saturday and that was the day I got off because I got motion sickness on the way to dinner the night before. It was wonderful to relax and get to explore the beautiful resort. I got to socialize more with crew. On that Sunday, we worked for twelve hours. It was our last clinic day. We made sure to finish all of the patients for the day. It was one of my best days because of my patients especially one specific patient. He was in need of a cleaning and tooth restoration. The entire team accomplished just that. I saw him first. I anesthetized him and began his prophylaxis treatment once I complete him he moved on to see Dr. Krueger for restoring his front tooth. We took some before and after pictures to show him the change. He was beyond happy. No one could knock the smile off of his face.

I was working on my next patient when I got a small tap on my right shoulder. I looked over and it was my previous patient. He had brought Dr. Krueger and I some banana chips to share with everyone. He stated that they were his brand of banana chips from his store. I felt so appreciated. I know how hard the people of Jamaica work to make their earnings and he did not have to give us back anything but did anyway. It was such a sweet gesture, and I could see that he really valued his treatment. I feel like in the states we don’t see that too often.