Reflection from the Hispanic International Mission (HIM) Humanitarian Trip

On September 16th – 23rd, 2023, Tufts community members completed a Humanitarian Mission Trip organized by Hispanic International Mission (HIM) that took place in Samana, Dominican Republic. This mission trip had a great group of delegates of 17 individuals that included one Tufts Faculty Dr. Merelyn Hong HIM Vice President and Tufts Faculty Practice Coordinator, Dr. Reimy Evangelista HIM President and Tufts Alumni, Dr. Zuzana Mendez former Vice President of HIM and Tufts Alumni, Dr. Carlena Almazar Executive Director of HIM and Tufts IS D’26, Dr. Ray Guillen HIM member and Tufts IS D’26, one Tufts Dental student Brian Truong D’24 and two predental students.

We are proud that they provided free dental care to an underserved population of 389 patients, who
received treatments that included prophylaxis, extractions, and restorative work. Dr. Herman was
responsible for the logistics of the organization and trip.

Brian Truong reflects on his experience

“Participating in the Hispanic International Mission Trip (HIM) in Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic was
profoundly impactful for several reasons. First, it provided a direct link to address a critical gap in
healthcare access in underserved communities. Many of the patients we encountered had never
received proper dental care due to financial constraints or geographical isolation. Witnessing the relief
on their faces as we provided essential dental services including prophylaxis, extractions, and restorative
work was a powerful reminder of the tangible impact that volunteer work can have on people’s lives.

Knowing that we were alleviating their pain and improving their overall health and well-being left a long-
lasting impression on me that I will carry for the rest of my life.

Secondly, the Hispanic International Mission Trip was a transformative personal experience. It pushed
me out of my comfort zone as a Tufts dental student from the US, requiring adaptability and resilience in
a different cultural and healthcare context. Working alongside a dedicated team of healthcare
professionals and volunteers from diverse backgrounds fostered a sense of community and unity. It
highlighted the universal nature of healthcare needs and the power of collaboration to effect positive
change. In addition, learning how to critically analyze each patient and provide the best optimal
treatment with the resources available helped me to think outside the box.

This experience also deepened my understanding of the broader global healthcare disparities and
inspired a commitment to continued service and advocacy. Ultimately, participating in the Hispanic
International Mission Trip not only allowed me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we
served but also instilled in me a profound sense of purpose and a greater appreciation for the
importance of accessible healthcare for all.

In conclusion, my experience on the Hispanic International Mission Trip was profoundly impactful and
inspiring. It not only allowed me to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need but also
enriched my own life in ways I could not have anticipated. It reinforced the power of compassion, the
importance of teamwork, and the transformative potential of giving back to the community. This
experience will continue to shape my outlook on life and my commitment to making a difference in the
world as a future dentist not only serving the underserved population in American but around the
world.”