Cerro Azul
September 24, 2026
The morning began with a devotional by Billy. In 1992 a cargo container ship carrying 29,000 rubber ducks fell into the ocean. These ducks made their way across three oceans and half the globe riding the currents. We can go through life just riding the currents or we can come together and serve others in the name of Jesus. We don’t have to be aimless and can choose not to be a duck.
After our devotional, we made our way to the community of Cerro Azul. It was founded in 1972 and has a population of 530 inhabitants, 115 families, and 110 houses. This community does not have a health center, midwife, or electricity. Access to water is a well located 2 Km away. The main agriculture activities include coffee, bananas, citric, yucca, and malanga.
In clinic today Shirley found a child with an irregular heartbeat, and he was referred to Dr. Moncada for follow up. Shirley also commented on the kindness of everyone in the community.
Nareesa, Jessica, and Dale made the observation that this community had large families with many children.
Cristina and John both enjoyed spending time with the children after finishing their work and were impressed by how well the children could complete math problems.
Anna gave crosses to two patient who were struggling with mental health and both patients were referred to be followed.
Joseph’s first patient had complications from the top of her head to the tip of her toes. She felt very reassured when she left the clinic.
Yolanda referred patients with hypertension and untreated diabetes.
Matt was surprised by how many young children had cavities but were too young for fillings.
Lastly, Alvin wasn’t able to join today but he was greatly missed by the entire team.
The day concluded with a devotional by Anna: "A Band-Aid is something so simple, but it represents why we’re here - to care for people who are hurting. This week we may clean wounds, give medications, pull teeth, check vision, or simply listen. We can treat many physical needs, but there are hurts we can’t see and wounds we can’t fix. That’s where God comes in. Psalm 147:3: He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds."
The Dinwiddie Team
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