Cristina Morales recently returned from a life-changing mission trip to San Raymundo, Guatemala, where she joined Dr. Dylan Patrick and his team from Storybook Smiles in Tyler, Texas. The team of about 25 volunteers—including dentists, dental assistants, hygienists, senior SRNA students from the University of Arizona and a pediatric dental anesthesia crew—met in Guatemala City before traveling 2.5 hours to a small rural hospital to provide essential dental care to underserved pediatric patients.

The group was divided into two main teams. One operated a dental hygiene clinic that served approximately 150 children per day, offering cleanings and basic oral care. Cristina was part of the other team, which set up a fully functioning dental operating room. Thanks to recently donated anesthesia machines, they were able to run three general anesthesia cases simultaneously. Over four days, the OR team completed 89 general anesthetic procedures for children ranging from 2 to 12 years old.

The need for dental care was urgent and overwhelming. Many of the young patients arrived with severe dental decay, infections, and pain. Families—many of whom walked hours to reach the clinic—waited patiently all day for treatment. Despite their circumstances, they remained kind, respectful and deeply grateful.

Every service provided was free of charge, made possible through the time, donations and dedication of the team. For Cristina, the trip was not only humbling but professionally invaluable. As a senior SRNA preparing to graduate in August, the experience pushed her to think creatively, simplify her practice and build confidence in her skills. Working in a resource-limited environment taught her lessons that will serve her well as she becomes a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.

Cristina considers it an honor to have been part of such meaningful work and looks forward to returning to serve the people of Guatemala again in the future.