Letter

Here is a letter I sent out for support to help explain why I am going on this trip...

Hello!
I am graduating from Ferris State University with a career in dental hygiene this spring. Each year some graduating hygiene students are given an incredible opportunity to participate in a dental mission trip to Guyana, South America in March during our spring break. I have been asked to be part of this year’s team. It is my hope that you will share in this experience with me.
I will have the opportunity to work with several local dentists and assistants, dental students from the University of Michigan, and fellow hygiene students from Ferris. We will work together to provide cleanings, brushing instructions, sealants, restorations, and extractions to the Guyanese people. The team last year provided 1,240 hours and $198,400 worth of treatment to 507 patients in just four days. For many patients in this third world country, this will be the only opportunity they ever have to see a dental professional and receive care. Guyana’s primary crop is sugar cane, resulting in an increased incidence of dental decay in the population. They have an extreme need for dental care and services provided would normally cost them an entire year of wages.
Guyana is an English speaking country which has experienced recent social changes. The country was communist up until 1990 and it has a large eastern Indian population. Our patients will be from a mix of religious backgrounds with Christians, Hindus, Muslims, and other beliefs.
Each year the clinic is set up inside a church. Most patients walk over a day to arrive and many spend the night hoping to get treatment the next day. While they are waiting they are fellowshipped by local pastors this is often their first contact with Christianity.
I would sincerely appreciate your support as I travel and do this service. The most important way would be to pray for me while I prepare and while I am away. I would like prayers for safe travels, physical strength throughout the long work days, and that my mind would be prepared for what God has to show me. Also, financial support would be greatly appreciated. The cost of the trip is slightly less than two thousand dollars. This includes dental supplies, airfare, food, and lodging. Tax deductible contributions can be made by removing the bottom of this letter and mailing it to First Baptist Church of Hastings. I pray God has encouraged your heart to support me. Thank you.

Kaitlyn Cimala




Kaitlyn Cimala
□ Yes, I will keep you in my prayers while you are in Guyana
□ Yes, I will financially support your trip

Name:__________________________

Amount: _______

Address: ___________________________________________________________

Send to:
First Baptist Church of Hastings
ATTN: Guyana
309 E Woodlawn
Hastings, MI 49058

Make checks payable to First Baptist Church of Hastings

I am going to Guyana

I am going to Guyana for a dental hygiene mission trip. There are ten dental hygiene students going from Ferris, including my best friend Ashley. We are leaving Friday, March 5 and coming back Saturday, March 13.

I can't believe I am going in a week and a half! I have been talking about this for two years now, and it's finally almost here.