Posted March 02, 2026 in Humanitarian Work
Why do I participate in humanitarian medical missions?
During medical school and later as a resident, I was inspired by the individuals who took time out of their busy lives to volunteer and help others. The doctors I met helped by applying their knowledge and surgical skill to teach other physicians and to operate on individuals with complex deformities such as cleft lip and palate, or deformities secondary to trauma or cancer. Seeing how their acts of kindness made such an impact on an individual or family left a strong impression and inspires me to help others in a similar way.
What organization do you volunteer with?
I volunteer through an organization called FACE to FACE. FACE to FACE is a program conducted under the auspices of the Educational and Research Foundation for the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). This program allows AAFPRS members to use their surgical skills and expertise to help those who are in need domestically and abroad.
Where have you volunteered?
I have participated in programs traveling abroad including China and Vietnam.
In future blogs, I plan to expand on some personal experiences volunteering with Face to Face
