by AfS Photographer Linda Hart

Every mission has its stories, and for this mission, one stands out.  On this mission, Mary was the patient.

Mary was born with a cleft and has been cared for since she was born by Dr. Adesina.  Dr. Adesina was a part of her initial surgery when she was 2 years old.

A couple of years later, she came to the AfS clinic and it was decided that more work could be done to improve her quality of life, and she was scheduled for surgery.

Unbeknown to Mary and her mother, Dr. Adesina was part of the AfS surgical team that did her repair.

Once she woke up, her mom came and held her.  Mary’s mom looked up and saw Dr. Adesina.  She was overwhelmed as he told her he’d been part of this surgical team.

Today is pack up day, as our team prepares to fly home.  Arriving as strangers, leaving as friends.

Thank you to the Rotary Club of Venice-Nokomis and District 9112 for making this mission possible!