Taylor Cunningham, a third-year student at the Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine at Campbell University, embarked on a life-changing journey this summer to Ghana, on Africa’s western coast. Alongside a group of fellow students, Cunningham immersed herself in a unique experience that would leave a lasting impact on her perspective on medicine and humanity.
During their time in Ghana, Cunningham and her peers visited six villages, where they set up clinics and provided medical care to a total of 1,346 patients. Each day, they saw around 200 individuals, offering not only treatment but also education on health and wellness. The students worked closely with attending physicians and mentors, gaining valuable hands-on experience that is often rare for medical students in their early years of training.
One particular encounter stood out among the many memories Cunningham and her group collected during their time in Ghana. A patient suffering from body pain also needed new glasses. The woman showed Cunningham her old, armless glasses that she tied around her head with a string. Moved by the woman’s situation, Cunningham promised to provide her with new glasses, free of charge. The patient’s overwhelming gratitude and the gesture of offering oranges as a token of appreciation touched the hearts of the entire group.
The interactions with patients in Ghana taught Cunningham and her peers valuable lessons about the essence of medicine beyond just diagnosing and treating symptoms. They learned the importance of listening to patients, showing compassion, and understanding their unique backgrounds and beliefs. By immersing themselves in the local culture and forming personal connections with the people they served, the students gained a deeper understanding of the holistic approach to patient care.
The impact of the outreach trip to Ghana extended beyond medical treatment. It served as a reminder to Cunningham of her “why” – the reason she chose to pursue a career in medicine. The experience reinvigorated her passion for helping others and reinforced the significance of human connection in the practice of medicine.
The collaboration with local hospitals and educational institutions in Ghana further enriched the students’ experience, providing them with a broader perspective on global healthcare challenges and opportunities. The trip was not only a learning experience but also a testament to the power of international cooperation in addressing healthcare disparities and promoting wellness worldwide.
As Cunningham reflected on her time in Ghana, she expressed gratitude towards her mentors and the entire team that made the mission trip possible. The support and guidance provided by experienced healthcare professionals played a crucial role in shaping the students’ experiences and fostering a sense of camaraderie among the group. Cunningham acknowledged the mentors’ dedication and the opportunities they created for students to engage in meaningful outreach efforts.
The impact of the Ghana trip resonated deeply with Cunningham, reinforcing her commitment to treating patients as whole individuals and not just as medical cases. The experience served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, shaping her journey towards becoming a compassionate and well-rounded physician.
In conclusion, Taylor Cunningham’s transformative experience in Ghana highlights the profound impact of global outreach trips on medical students. Through their work in underserved communities, students like Cunningham gain invaluable insights into the diverse aspects of patient care, cultural competence, and the interconnectedness of healthcare on a global scale. The lessons learned and memories created during these missions serve as a foundation for future healthcare professionals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.
