Guyana was one of the most unique places I have ever visited. For example, it’s part of South America but self identifies as a Caribbean Island. The population is mostly made up of Indo-Guyanese and Afro-Guyanese whose ancestors immigrated in the 18th and 19th centuries to work on sugar cane population under Dutch and then British control. The merging of so many cultures, including the native Ameri-Indian population as well, has created a truly unique culture and nation.
Dave and I traveled to Guyana with Doctors International to tell the story of their medical mission through photographs. The team consisted of surgeons, nurses, and surgical techs who performed over 40 major surgeries in two hospitals in Guyana over a one week period. It was my first time in an Operating room and, let me tell you, it was an incredible thing to witness.
I was really unsure how I would do watching surgery because I can be a bit squeamish and I’d heard that it is pretty common to pass out. However, I am proud to report that I watched many organs being removed and stayed on my feet. I even found the whole process fascinating. Don’t worry, I don’t see any career changes in the future. I will stick with photography, over the medical field thanks.
Anyways, here are a few of our favorite photographs from around the two hospitals where we worked.
I learned a ton on this trip and it was such an honor to work alongside such talented physicians who truly care about their patients.
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Hi Erica, what a wonderful mission to be part of and you captured an amazing story. Hospitals are not the easiest place to photographs. I admire you for getting pass the squeamish-ness and for embracing the whole experience. IT shows in your work. They’re powerful. Great work.
Thank you Marisol! We greatly enjoyed the experience.
These photographs are incredible- I’m amazed/moved/thrilled to see them!
Thanks so much Sarah! It was an amazing/moving/thrilling experience, so I am glad that came through in the images 🙂