If I had to choose one word to describe my experience in Hyderabad as a medical provider- I would say humbling! While performing medical evaluations, I had the opportunity to listen to patient stories and connect with them on a deeper level. I will always cherish my time in Hyderabad and be grateful to IMM for this amazing opportunity that allowed me to touch the lives of the Indian community.
Pooja Baviskar, Physician Assistant
2024 Team Member
The experience was absolutely life-changing. It was a moment where I could use my expertise to make a positive impact on others, and the feeling was truly incredible. I had the opportunity to observe how countries with limited resources managed to provide compassionate care with unwavering smiles, always eager to assist anyone in need. What's more, I forged friendships that will undoubtedly last a lifetime. The IMM team of 2024 truly left an indelible mark on me with their exceptional dedication and spirit.
Malena Munoz, Nurse Practioner
2024 Team Member
"I thought I had an idea of what to expect with India Medical Mission, which I did to some extent, but it far surpassed my expectations in terms of outreach, camaraderie, and further improving my ability to be resourceful.
I was honored with the role of functioning as one of the providers, which is a role I am familiar with, but the language barrier and lack of my usual resources made me practice outside of the box, and much outside of my comfort zone. Being a medical provider in a rural area made me go back to the fundamentals of medicine such as paying attention to detail and strong teaching skills. However, one important thing that was reinforced to me is that showing compassion goes a long way, despite the barriers.
The patients showed their gratitude towards me and the amazing team, but I felt so grateful to be allowed to take care of these patients. I was grateful to be welcomed into their villages, overwhelmed by their sincere hospitality, and so fortunate to partner with the selfless, local medical teams in Hyderabad.
This trip has left such a lasting impact on me, and I know it will continue to, I will, without a doubt, plan on doing this trip again.”
Trudi Barry, Nurse Practioner
2023 Team Member
“I cannot emphasize enough how pivotal my experience with India Medical Mission was for me personally and now, professionally as a physician assistant! The trip fueled my determination to become a PA and inspired me throughout school to develop the skills necessary to help address the healthcare challenges I witnessed. Most importantly, it was an invaluable reminder that medicine is more than just treating ailments; it’s about connecting with the person you providing for, even when you don’t speak the same language. Beyond the medical aspect, this trip fostered lifelong friendships as we shared laughter, tears, and unforgettable memories while making a tangible difference in the lives of others. If you’re looking to broaden your horizons and gain transformative healthcare experience, I wholeheartedly encourage you to attend India Medical Mission.”
Jade Carbonelli, PA-C
2019 Team Member
I attended the India Medical Mission trip in 2019 and it was one of the most transformative experiences I have ever experienced. I had recently graduated from obtaining my Bachelor’s degree was in my “gap year” when I discovered about the trip while trying to find shadowing experience.
Joel has been the greatest mentor and blessing to my life. From the moment you inquire about the trip to after you return he truly cares immensely about the success of those attending the trip and also the mission itself. He even provided shadowing opportunities to us pre-PA students after we returned from the trip. I later went on to receive my second Bachelor’s in nursing and am now enrolled in my Masters to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Joel and the lessons I learned while on the trip have played a huge role in my success in the medical field and the knowledge I gained while in India is something I will carry with me for my entire professional career.
The experience while in India is unbelievable and hard to put in words. It truly is a magical experience. I was able to obtain medical experience including obtaining vitals, performing blood glucose checks, shadowing the practitioners and gaining insight in regards to their thought process which leads them to a diagnosis, and working in our makeshift “pharmacy” which led me to improve on my knowledge of several medications. We were also able to visit a local orphanage on multiple occasions which was especially meaningful to me. Not only do you gain all of this but you have the most rewarding experience helping hundreds of individuals who have very limited access to medical care. We learned a lot about teaching preventative measures like hand washing, ect. which we often overlook as a teachable moment. In addition to all of the medical care we provide as a team, often the most rewarding part of the experience is making someone smile despite a language barrier.
When I tell others of my experience people often ask me , “you went alone not knowing anyone?!” I tell them yes, but even before you take the trip, Joel does an amazing job at organizing meetings (often with yummy Indian food!) so that you familiarize yourself with the group before you even travel to India! By the time the trip was complete, we all felt like family and I continue to be in contact with several of the trip participants! They are also your biggest cheerleaders along whatever journey you are on. You will also meet and foster relationships with some of the most inspirational providers who truly value giving back to the world. They are the greatest mentors and role models.
I couldn’t recommend this trip more highly to anyone, regardless of your experience level. It is truly a life changing experience you will not regret!
Mackenzie Gasal, RN
2019 Team Member
"I had just graduated and passed my state board exam as a registered nurse in 2018 when my former professor, George Pete,r and my classmate, Farah Mandani, told me about this mission trip to India. I was very excited to be part of this initiative, it was the very first trip created by selfless people that were just trying to help in any way they could, those who needed the most help in northern India.
From the time of preparing for the trip until we got there everything was unknown and unexpected to me since I never thought I could be part of something like this. Upon arrival everything changed. We all started doing things and knowing people and we got to work in different villages every day. It was hard work but we didn’t feel tired! On the contrary, we were just looking forward to the next day to see how many more people could receive our medical help. I made so many friends in those 2 weeks. I also saw beautiful and ancient places as well.
The most important thing to me was to have the experience of helping others. I think that is the most rewarding thing of all. When you see happiness in people’s eyes because their prayers were finally heard, is an incredible feeling. I definitely have encouraged others around me to experience this mission trip for themselves because it is truly life changing. You will always have the most unique memories and they will stay with you for a lifetime."
Lissandra Rodriguez, NP
2018 Team Member
