I am eternally grateful to have been selected for this once in a lifetime opportunity. We traveled to Ocho Rios, Jamaica to provide dental cleanings to the underserved communities. We worked for several days in the clinics and visiting local schools to provide oral health education. This trip is the best thing that could happen to a dental hygiene student. As a student, I now feel that I have more experience and I am more confident in my clinical skills. As much as I enjoyed working and gaining more knowledge in the dental hygiene field, I also appreciate the time provided to learn and experience the Jamaican culture. I was able to participate in the sea turtle release, go snorkeling, and enjoy the beach. Our group also traveled into the less fortunate communities to spread our love by handing out toys to the children, diapers, toothbrushes etc. It was truly a humbling experience. I have never met a group of people so appreciative of our efforts.
We visited the local schools to provide oral health education to the children. These children were so excited to hear us speak, even if it was just about teeth. We handed out toothbrushes to each child and I did not expect everyone to get so excited! While I was handing out toothbrushes, I overheard a little girl say, “this is the best day of my life.” This is a memory I will have with me for the rest of my life, my heart is so full knowing that I made this little girl’s day with something so simple as a toothbrush.
While working in the clinic I met so many incredible people. Each and every patient was thankful to be in your chair. Many traveled from far away and waited for hours outside in the heat, however, it did not matter how long they had to wait… they were still grateful to be in your chair. There were many that could not stop smiling after their cleaning. Hearing their stories and struggles was heartbreaking, but I can only admire them for always choosing to be happy. True happiness is to enjoy the present. One Love!
– Sheryle, SPC Jamaica Dental Study Abroad Program, October 2022