UT Scrubs

Ecuador 2011 Video

2011-10-06T14:01:00.000-05:00

Welcome Back to School

2011-08-01T16:25:00.003-05:00

Welcome back to school! I hope you find that the BCM at UTHSC can be your home away from home. We have several ways in which you can get involved while you are at UTHSC for school.

Noonday Lunches ($3.00) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00-12:45 with a devotional

Bible Studies and discipleship opportunities

Local ministry projects such as our Mouth Guard Ministry which will be held at East High School this year, working with St. Jude in the Spring, and other area ministry opportunities as they present themselves

Foreign health-field mission trips during the summer

Fellowships throughout each semester: cook-outs, Redbirds games, bon fire, Thanksgiving at the BCM, BCM Christmas Party

And you definitely don't want to miss the Beast Feast! (our annual fundraiser/wild game dinner)

I hope to see you soon. We are located at 757 Court Ave. Next to the campus police station.

Wrap up from Ecuador part 2

2011-06-03T19:35:00.001-05:00

Wow! Where do I start? My limited Spanish background has come back to me pretty quick as I realized how important communication is for dentistry. Thanks to our amazing translators, I was able to brush up on at least my dental spanish during this trip. Here is an example of how most of my my time in the dental clinic (church) has been talking with the kids who came to see us...

Me: Hola. ¿Como Estas? (Hello. How are you doing?)

Patient: Bien. (Good) ...typically followed by a shy but sweet smile.

Me:¿Como te llamas? (What is your name?)

Patient: Maria

Me: Me llamo Mateo. ¿Cuanto años Maria? (My name is Matt. How old are you Maria?)

Maria: Siete (Seven)

Me: ¿Te duele algun diente? (Do any of your teeth hurt?)

Maria: Si (Yes) ...and she points to a lower tooth that is badly decayed.

Through an interpreter I explain to her that we can make that tooth stop hurting by doing a filling but first we must ´put the tooth to sleep, and to do so she will feel a small pinch in her mouth for just a second. Maria understands and agrees.

Me: Mira hacia arriba y abre la boca muy grande por favor. (Look up and open your mouth really wide.)

Maria: Tilts her head back despite being a little nervous.

Me: Cierra los ojitos. (Close your eyes.)

I then proceed with ´putting her tooth to sleep´. Once she is numb we finish her filling, say our goodbyes, and start the routine all over again with the next patient. Most kids were like Maria, however we definitely had our fair share of children who didn´t handle the shot (or extraction) as well. For these we simply did the best we could for them through patience, explanation, and love. I think we only had one or two children all week who wouldnt let us finish the dental work they needed.

My highlight of the day had nothing to do with dentistry at all. It came through the beautiful smile of an 8 year old Ecuadorian girl. Her name was Pamela (Pah-mella), and the time I spent with her made the 2,400 mile trip here all the worth while. We taught each other the names of different colors in our own native languages....rojo, azul, verde, amarillo, y naranja for red, blue, green, yellow, and orange. Then, we would test each other and laugh when one of us forgot the name of a color or celebrate when we got them all right. We shared candy, smiles, and hugs. She was a beautiful little girl, and you could tell she really enjoyed having us there. She already knew about Jesus thanks to the preacher there, SIFAT, and Compassion International. It is so great to be a part of a movement that is already impacting lives and spreading the Gospel rather than just providing dental relief.I hope I made as much of an impact on Pamela as she made on me. I definiely had that lump in my throat as she came out of the church to wave goodbye as our bus pulled out for the last time.

Our devotionals have been great this week. Bryan, Dr. Wilson, Dr. Darren, and Brent have all had an overlapping theme of mentorship with the key verse being 2 Timothy 2:2...´´And the things you have heard in the presence of many witnesses, entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.´´ These are some of the apostle Paul´s last words from prison as he was passing on the torch of Christianity on to one of his disciples Timothy. As Bryan mentioned in devotional tonight, mentoring is very similar to a relay race. There is a time in which the person who started the race carries the baton alone, there is a time in which the baton is being passed (at which point the two are actually running together), and there is a time in which the person who started the race must let go of the baton and let the next in line go ahead alone. As I reflect on my time in dental school and where I am now, I realize I have come to the point at which I must let go of some of the things that were started during my time at the UT Baptist Collegiate Ministries. I must let the younger students carry on the baton and entrust them to continue the race in the way it should be ran. It is suprisingly easy to turn the reigns over to them. Not because of how ready I am to move on, but because of what strong Christians there are in the classes below me. Just like a good relay team saves their best runner for the later part of the race, the younger students I have spent the past week with have the potential for far greater things than I could ever do for the BCM.

As I pass one baton on to the younger students, I feel as if I am in the process of receiving the baton of my next race. Dr. Wilson and Dr. Darren have been great mentors to me, and they are what I want to be professionally...Christians who are dentists, not dentists who are Christians. They both have a heart for the Lord and doing mission work. They have helped instill in me a desire to devote at least a part of each year to mission trips abroad yet have constant awareness of opportunities to show God´s love the other 51 weeks of the year. I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to be mentored by these men, and I hope to partner with them and the UT BCM for future mission trip opportunities.

In closing, I would just like to say how amazing it has been to serve with our team under Bryan´s leadership. I have learned so much from Bryan regarding being in a position of leadership, but more importantly how to be a man of God. Thank you Bryan. I want to praise all of the students who went on this trip. This trip wouldnt have been the same without Charlie and the pharmacy ladies. You all have been amazing and I can see your love for God through your care for others. I couldnt be more proud of all the dental students. We did a great thing here in Ecuador for God´s children, and I believe our mission has been accomplished for this trip. We treated over 430 mouths, but hopefully we touched just as many hearts. Lastly, it has been an awesome experience to close out this chapter in my dental career by doing this mission trip alongside my good friend Hunter. Thank you for going on this trip...it wouldn´t have been the same without you. Thank you to all of those reading these blogs and keeping our team and the people of Ecuador in your prayers. SIFAT has been amazing to work with, and they would welcome anyone who wanted to come down here to serve in whatever way God may lead you.

By Matt, D.D.S.; 2011 BCM Alum of UTHSC

´´....Open wide your mouth and I will fill it.´´ Psalm 81:10

Wrap up from Ecuador part 1

2011-06-03T19:05:00.002-05:00

Our week is coming to an end and I am blown away by Gods constant hand on our lives. Every missions trip I have been on has always had an incredible group of people. People that God brought together. People that were more acquaintances than close friends. And at the end of every trip, I am always wondering how can it get any better than this. But it always does. God brought a handful of strangers together for His purpose. And we are no longer acquaintances and strangers but close friends. Something only God could do. He knew what needed to happen this week and who needed to be here to accomplish it.

He knew we needed Meghan, Lindsey, Suzy, and Maureen to greet everyone at the door with a smile and something they probably have never had: a picture of themselves. And in between pictures, He knew how important it would be for them to sit there with the children and color with them. Simply spending time with them while also distracting them from what lies ahead in the clinic.

He knew we needed one medical student named Charlie who helped in every area of our ministry with a joyful spirit. His love is big and his joy contagious. Many were touched by him this week including me.

God also knew that we needed nine green D2s: Laura, Leesa, Amanda, Anne Marie, Ashley, Jessi, Nick, Cory, and myself. Each one willing to work anywhere in order to accomplish the daily needs in the dental clinic. God also knew that this would be a great learning experience for us. Not only for us to learn how to give injections, pull teeth, and fill teeth but for us to learn how we can use our skills and resources to make an impact in peoples lives.

God knew we needed Blain on this trip to not only add a lot in the clinic but to bring much laughter and entertainment to all of us throughout the week.

He also knew that we needed Terrah and Jessie to be here to listen to the people of Ecuador who have experienced a loss of a loved one. For them to sit and listen to them talk about and express things that they have never shared with anyone before. Jessie and Terrah both were valuable to this team but mostly to the people they listened to and were able to minister to.

God knew we needed two dentists that graduated last week to help lead this team in a very unselfish way: Matt and Hunter. Both could have come here and used this trip to gain experience and develop their skill. But instead they chose to use this trip as an opportunity to invest in the 11 dental students that came. This trip would not have happened if it weren't for their leadership and involvement in BCM.

God also knew we needed a leader to lead this team. But He knew it had to be Bryan. Someone who not only is fun to be around but someone who is intentional in everything he does. Someone that would be an encouragement to us but also a true servant.

God also knew we needed both Darren and my dad, Nelson, to make this trip really special. Aside from their constant humour, they provided 13 of us the opportunity to practice dentistry here in Quito. They prepared months in advance by gathering supplies, chose to spend a week away from their wives and children, and to spend the week teaching all of us. They could have gone on other trips but they choose to go with the BCM. We needed them to have not only a successful dental clinic but an unforgettable experience. An experience that taught us all ways we can be intentional with our lives and invest in others. They have been blessed much. But they showed us that it is not so they can accumulate but so they can bless others.

Lastly, God wanted Brent here. He knew he would be an asset in the dental clinic. But mostly, he wanted Brent to share with us something that he has been recently learning. And that is the importance of making disciples. Jesus spent 85% of His time on this earth investing in 12 individuals. And Jesus's last words to them contained only one verb: to make disciples. Not to go. But as we go, we are to make disciples. We, as followers of Jesus Christ, need to invest our lives into others. To be intentional in all we do in order to spread the Gospel.

It is amazing to me how involved God is in our lives. He wanted all 23 of us here for a reason: to meet physical and spiritual needs. But to also change us and the way we view His people. The people here probably believe they received the biggest blessing. But I know that we are leaving the most blessed. Blessed by the people of

Ecuador's love and joy despite their circumstances. More than likely, this group will never be together again. But we will always remember each other and what God did through us and in us during our week in Quito together.

By Rebekah, 2nd year Dental student

Amazon Rainforest Zipline...it's like you're there

2011-06-03T17:31:00.002-05:00

Here is what it looks like to ride a zipline through the Amazon Rainforest.

Amazon Rainforest Zipline

2011-06-03T17:25:00.002-05:00

Bryan, BCM Director, going through the Amazon Rainforest on a Zipline. Our whole group went on the zipline today as part of our free day. It was an amazing experience.

Viva Quito!

2011-06-02T23:51:00.003-05:00

Let me start by telling you about our bus driver Lennin. This muchacho is a magician behind the wheel. Known for having the sharpest left turn in Quito, his 20 foot whip commands the road. I told him he had amazing driving skills and he replied, "You hadn't seen nothing yet." I didn't really think about this statement until later in the night. After dinner we were told we had a surprise. We walked around Quito and heard this band playing on the top of a 1960's school bus with no doors. My initial thought was, “Huh, that is pretty interesting.” I look closer and guess who is behind the wheel? It’s Lennin! (this is Lennin's second job).

Turns out this is our surprise, and I wouldn't be more surprised if I woke up with my head sown to the carpet. So, naturally we pile in and cruise the streets of Quito blowing whistles with the band, which played the same chorus over and over at least 100 times. I asked Charlie to comment on the ride and he stated, "viva Quito!" Words can’t describe this ride but I’ll tell you what I've learned about Lennin. One is that he is everywhere. Second he gets me around safely and third and most importantly he knows how to throw a party on a bus.

By Brent, 4th year Dental student

Videos of last day of Clinic 1/16

2011-06-02T23:39:00.002-05:00

Bryan, BCM Director, Pastor Flores, and Camilo, one of our translators

Videos of last day of Clinic 2/16

2011-06-02T23:34:00.001-05:00

Terrah, Vanderbilt Hospital, and Jessie, St. Jude Hospital

Videos of last day of Clinic 3/16

2011-06-02T23:30:00.002-05:00

Matt, 2011 BCM Alum of UTHSC

Videos of last day of Clinic 4/16

2011-06-02T23:27:00.001-05:00

Meghan, Lindsay, Suzy, and Maureen, 2nd year Pharmacy students

Videos of last day of Clinic 5/16

2011-06-02T23:22:00.001-05:00

Amanda, 2nd year Dental student, and Brent, 4th year Dental student

Videos of last day of Clinic 6/16

2011-06-02T23:17:00.002-05:00

Dr. Darren, 2001 BCM Alum of UTHSC

(Disclaimer: The views expressed in this interview do not necessarily represent the views of the BCM.)

Videos of last day of Clinic 7/16

2011-06-02T23:13:00.002-05:00

Ashley and Laura, 2nd year dental students

Videos of last day of Clinic 8/16

2011-06-02T23:10:00.002-05:00

Hunter, 2011 BCM Alum of UTHSC, and Nick, 2nd year Dental student

Videos of last day of Clinic 9/16

2011-06-02T17:48:00.002-05:00

Charlie, 2nd year Medical student, and Meghan, 2nd year Pharmacy student

Videos of last day of Clinic 10/16

2011-06-02T17:39:00.001-05:00

Jessi, 2nd year Dental student

Videos of last day of Clinic 11/16

2011-06-02T17:35:00.001-05:00

Corey, 2nd year Dental student

Videos of last day of Clinic 12/16

2011-06-02T17:28:00.001-05:00

Matt, 2011 BCM Alum of UTHSC, and Dr. Wilson, 1983 BSU Alum of UT Memphis

Videos of last day of Clinic 13/16

2011-06-02T17:23:00.001-05:00

Blain, 3rd year Dental student

(it's the last day and we're a little loopy)

Videos of last day of Clinic 14/16

2011-06-02T17:19:00.001-05:00

Laura and Leesa, 2nd year Dental students

Videos of last day of Clinic 15/16

2011-06-02T17:16:00.001-05:00

Dani, one of our translators, and Corey, 2nd year Dental student

Videos of last day of Clinic 16/16

2011-06-02T17:06:00.002-05:00

Anne Marie, 2nd year Dental student

Photos of Clinic-Day 3

2011-06-01T23:46:00.006-05:00

Suzy and Meghan having way too much fun with the giant toothbrush

This guy was joking around with his friends while they colored and I caught him in the act

The giant teeth and toothbrush was a hit today

Blain showing off his mad drum skills

???...To me it look like a leprechaun, to me. Who all seen the leprechaun say Yeah!

Controlled Chaos is how Dr. Wilson described our dental clinic.

I was given the task to hold the baby while his mother had her procedure

Coloring has been a hit this week

Blain teaching how to prophy

Ecuador-Wednesday, June 1, 2011

2011-06-01T23:04:00.005-05:00

Day three of clinic….check! God is working in so many ways here in Quito. I am taken back by not only the amount of strength and bravery that the people of Quito display, but also by the amount of appreciation that each of them express. I am so blessed to be here and witness God working and moving in so many different ways. I knew when I decided to listen to God and commit to taking this trip that I would have a chance to touch the lives of many people, however I never realized how much these people would be touching me.

The clinic is almost indescribable. 120+ people flow through our clinic doors each day. Today I spent the majority of my time in the “triage” area where I had the opportunity to give injection after injection. I could not trade anything for this experience. One little girl was especially one to remember. In the process of trying to give her an injection, she closes down, and my finger just happened to be in the way. That little girl never did calm down enough for a procedure to be done, but despite that girl’s traumatic experience, the look of hope that was left in her eyes will never be forgotten.

Today was also especially special because we had the opportunity to really experience the city of Quito. First, our translator Nani took us around to little shops near our clinic. Being that I was one of the eight who did not receive luggage, I was able to purchase some much-needed new kicks as well as some very unique Ecuadorean souvenirs. Then for dinner tonight, a group of us ate an authentic Ecuadorean buffet. They had everything from cow tongue and blood clots to green ball banana soup. Then to top it off, there was a dessert bar that ran the length of a wall with the tastiest being this caramel goodness served in a shot glass. It was muy bien.

All and all, I am having a blast here in Quito. I have to say though that this trip would not be what it is if it was not for the people I am sharing these experiences with. I could not ask for two better teachers that Dr. Forster and Dr. Wilson. Also, from everything from the bus rides, to the days and clinic, to the time we spend together after dinner, there is nothing more rewarding than growing in the Lord with each of these brothers and sisters in Christ each day. God is definitely working and moving in the city of Quite, and I am so happy that I am able to be a part of it. Praise be to God.

By Ashley, 2nd year Dental student

I felt like today was a "reflecting" type of day. You know... one of those days where you have really been able to just take in all that is around you. I see how adorable those kids are as they walk in our makeshift clinic. And how welcoming Suzy, Lindsay, Meghan, and Maureen are as they walk in with pictures and coloring books and smiles and simply with the open arms of Christ. And how appreciative the pastor and his wife are as they smile in such gratitude... Just as Bryan has said, a smile has no language barrier. And I see the dentists-- Dr Wilson, Dr. Darren, Hunter, and Matt, as well as Brent, and Blain as they use their talents and abilities for the glory of God. And I know that He has placed me here for a reason... to learn and grow as a Christian and in my professional path in becoming a dentist. And then I look at my classmates and think of how much we have been through together already, and how much we will continue to grow together in the rest of this week and the years to come.

I am honored and humbled to be a part of this experience in Quito. I pray that we have made as much of an impact on the people of Ecuador, just as they have on us.

By Laura, 2nd year Dental student

I have been working in the photography/welcome station for the most part, and I would have to say today was the smoothest day we have had so far. Suzy, Lindsay, Meghan and I have perfected the process of welcoming a child, taking their picture, printing the picture, and decorating the picture frame. The part we have not perfected is the conversation. We are limited to asking the children how many brothers/sisters they have and how old they are, but we are learning more everyday. Lindsay got some laughs today when she asked two older boys if they had girlfriends, but at least she has stopped asking children if they have a cat (tienes un gato?). Although the language barrier is tough, I have learned that a smile or a hug is universal. Some children are all smiles when they walk through the door, and their friendly smiles truly warm my heart. Others are more reserved and frightened and I realize that God is asking me to show them love and compassion so they will be more at ease.

I signed up for this trip only knowing the other three pharmacy students and was not sure how we would fit into this team, but I could not be more pleased with the relationships I have made in the past few days. We have gone from barely knowing each others names to sharing clothes, blow dryers, socks, and mascara. Bryan spoke tonight after our devotion period about how well our group has gotten along and how much fun we have all had together and I was quickly reminded of one of my favorite quotes by C.S. Lewis.

"In friendship we think we have chosen our peers. In reality, a few years difference in the dates of our birth, a few more miles between certain houses, any of these chanced might have kept us apart. But for a Christian there are no chances. A secret master of ceremonies has been at work. The friendship is the instrument by which God reveals to each the beauty of others."-C.S. Lewis

I am so thankful for this team and all of the hard work everyone has put into every aspect of the mission this week. Without any single member, I am not sure how we would have functioned as successfully as we have this week.

By Maureen, 2nd year Pharmacy student

Hunter's Highlights

7:00-8:00- Wake up call
8:00-9:00- Bus ride
9:00-10:30- Fillings with Nick
10:30-12:30- Fillings with Laura
12:30-1:30ish- Lunch (mushroom gravy, chicken, and rice)
1:ish-3:??- Extractions with Corey
3:??-End of Clinic- Triage with Anne Marie
End of Clinic-5:15- Bus ride
Evening hours: 1)Trip to market to haggle, then pay full price when storekeepers "play the game." (Matt bought the ugliest alpaca sweater hoodie jacket ever) 2)Buffet dinner at Hilton Hotel. SO GOOD!! Menu included beef tongue, blood sausage and caramel shots with Matt. 3)Brent's devotional about discipleship.
After the devotional- Bed

Hunter's Final Thoughts

Attempting to capture specific highlights was extremely hard because this entire week has been a highlight. In everything this group does, you can see the joy and happiness that comes from serving Christ with like-minded brothers and sisters. The fellowship and encouragement from everyone's positive attitudes have triumphed over all adversity sent our way. Perhaps the greatest blessing of this trip is seeing the grateful faces of our patients. Even through the language barrier, it's easy to connect with them without saying a word. They know we came to help them and share God's love with them. I'm confident that our joy from serving will continue to bring smiles to our own faces as well as the local folks we have been working with.

By Hunter, 2011 BCM Alum of UTHSC

Ecuador-McDonald's visit

2011-06-01T19:35:00.002-05:00

The most interesting McDonald's EVER

Ecuador-Wednesday, June 1, 2011

2011-06-01T19:14:00.002-05:00

Leesa and Amanda's video blog post. We are in a van, so it is a little bumpy.

Photos of Clinic-Day 2

2011-05-31T23:34:00.007-05:00

Amanda and "her" baby

Meghan cleaning dental instruments

Matt from the view of our clinic

Rebekah and Anne Marie at our delicious lunch

Dr. Darren observes as Brent and Jessi extract one of four teeth on this elderly man

Laura and one of our wonderful translators, Pamela

Ashley giving an intense injection

Suzy decorating the picture frames with the love of God, and foam letters, and crayons...there might be glitter too. Just sayin.

Maureen cleaning teeth

Dr. Wilson observing Leesa give an injection, also intense

Nick cleaning teeth

Amanda doing her first filling!

Hunter sanria-ing for the camera

Dr. Darren helps Blain with an injection

Charlie, Leesa, and Ashley watch as Dr. Wilson gives an injection

Corey cleaning teeth

Lindsay helping at the children's ministry station

Ecuador-Tuesday, May 31, 2011

2011-05-31T22:45:00.004-05:00

 It is amazing what can be done when a group of people come together with a common goal. The last 24 hours were exhausting but with a little "shake and bake" we prevailed. If you walked into our clinic there weren't dental students, pharmacy student, and medical students working separately. There was just a single body of servants working for the Lord with a smile on their face.        

  Dental work today was priceless. Literally, I think I got more experience today than a whole month of dental school (a $6000 value). All morning I did injections in the "triage" area. Basically we would diagnose what treatment they needed and send them on their way. Lunch today was epic to say the least. Today was steak, avocados, potatoes, rice, & ice cream.

 This afternoon was a small step for man but a huge leap for Blain Reynolds. When Dr Wilson asked me to go do some fillings I about soiled my only pair of underwear, but I jumped in there and got it done. (shake and bake) I did a few fillings before the big dogs (ie Dr Wilson and Dr Darren) had to jump in and speed things up. On a more serious note I did about 5 fillings this afternoon and it was a day I will never forget.

  124, that's how many lives were changed today by our group. Maureen, Meghan, Lindsay, and Suzy thank you for being the first smiling faces the kids see. If it was me they would all run away. I thank God for this opportunity and the gifts that I can use to serve.

P.S. Delta please send our luggage & gear

By Blain, 3rd year Dental student

As the second day of the clinic began, I was feeling a little more prepared as I felt like I knew what to expect for the day. If there is one thing I should have learned on the other mission trips I've been on it is that you should never think you know how your day is going to turn out. By the end of our day I got the opportunity to print many, many pictures, clean dental instruments, and even clean teeth.

The day did begin in a similar fashion as yesterday with all the pharmacy girls greeting the kids when they arrived. We took a photo of each patient, placed it in a frame, and then helped each one decorate their frame with their name and "God is love" in Spanish. By the end of the morning set of patients, we were working like a well-oiled machine. Working and talking with the kids was such a rewarding experience as we get to see them smile and get excited over seeing their finished frame and trying on their new pair of sunglasses we gave them. Unfortunately, these smiles didn't last long as their next step was the dental chair...a tad scarier than the crafts table.

Once the afternoon rolled around it was time for this pharmacy girl to get a little experience in the dental world. I began with the baby steps of cleaning the dental instruments and eventually graduated up to cleaning some teeth. While the first patient I saw probably wondered why someone who looked like they had no clue what they were doing was working in their mouth, I eventually got the hang of it and even had fun. Even though I've learned more about dentistry than I ever expected to, seeing a couple extractions and injections assured me that pharmacy is where I belong.

Overall, I would say that this trip has been excellent! With the exception of some missing luggage, I could not imagine this trip running any smoother. I can't wait to see what God has in store for the rest of the week.

By Meghan, 2nd year Pharmacy student

When Bryan asked me to write for today’s blog, I began to consider different aspects of the trip so far that have been funny, or awe-inspiring, or humbling, and already several different instances started coming to mind. From the breath-taking mountain views and the city that seems to literally never end, to the moments in the clinic or on the bus when everyone is laughing so hard at an off the wall comment someone says or something crazy that happened in clinic. But no matter what came to mind, it’s as if all I could see in my mind were faces. Because the people behind each of the faces I’ve seen this week are who have helped to make this trip one that I will never forget.

Some of the faces are of these amazing people I’m fortunate enough to work with each day. Bryan said earlier this week that he hasn’t seen a lazy bone yet in our group and I believe it. Everyone is willing to help and rotate positions in the clinic, even when it means just scrubbing blood off instruments for a while. We all share laughs and stories, but also continue to work hard and help out where needed, and the way the clinic has been flowing is a reflection of how well we work together. I’ve been fortunate enough to gain far more dental practice in two days than I ever expected before coming on the trip., including not only injections, but also drilling, extractions, and cleanings. The doctors and older dental students have been SO patient, even when I know I probably didn’t drill something perfectly, or they have to reposition the syringe yet again. Their patience only helps to show that they have huge hearts and desire for us younger students to gain knowledge and confidence, along with helping the people of Ecuador. Their current and future patients are very lucky, and I’m so thankful to have an entire week to learn from these men, and make stronger friendships with everyone on the team.

We’ve also been fortunate to have amazing translators helping us in the clinic for the past two days. I worked with a 22 yr. old named Daniella most of Monday morning at the tooth cleaning station, which is a GREAT station because the children aren’t scared of you; cleanings don’t hurt! Getting to know her story and talking with the other translators during the breaks has just given me a glimpse into some of the unbelievably huge hearts God is using here in Ecuador. It’s only the middle of the week, but I feel I’ve already made a lasting friend in Dani, and the pastors and community leaders we’ve met seem just as friendly, kind-hearted, and extremely generous.

Now I know this will probably seem cliché’, but the faces I will remember most are those of the children. I was reminded today that God planned in advance for each and every one of those children to walk through the door of the clinic, and it is not by chance. We may not know their circumstances or their backgrounds, but we are given the opportunity to use gifts given to us to minister to them, and if anything just show love to them for the brief time they are there. What an unbelievable opportunity! It may be the photo of themselves they get to take home, or the chance to sit and color for a while, or the tooth we saved them from losing, or even pain we helped take away, but no matter what that child takes away from the experience I hope they see the love of God through it somehow. Because listening to the Ecuadorian pastor on Sunday I realized that God truly is so much bigger than we know. He is here in Ecuador as much as he is in the US , and He knows the names of each of those children, and their circumstances, as well as their hearts. And He loves each person we pass on the street, see at the hotel, or meet in the clinic as much as He loves me.

I may not understand why we still don’t have luggage, or why God allows one person to be born in Ecuador, and others in places like America, but God has reminded me this week that He is bigger than any circumstance, or human plan, or human need. And His love is greater than I could ever know. So I look forward to sharing more stories and laughter with this fun and amazing group of people the rest of this week, but even more I look forward to seeing God in countless more faces.

By Anne Marie, 2nd year Dental student

"Trust me, I'm a doctor."

Photos of Clinic-Day 1

2011-05-30T23:44:00.006-05:00

2011 BCM Alum of UTHSC, Matt and 2nd year dental student, Anne Marie extracting a tooth

Charlie, a 2nd year medical student, assisting 4th year dental student, Brent with filling a cavity

2nd year Pharmacy student, Maureen and one of the many children we saw today

Brent filling another cavity

Dr. Wilson, BCM (BSU) Alum of UTHSC, teaching 2nd year students, Corey and Rebekah how to fill a cavity

Nani, our translator and Quito guide, and 2nd year dental students, Jessi and Ashley, pose with a patient at our triage table

Rebekah, Corey, and Leesa

Anne Marie, Laura, and Amanda

Nick and Charlie showing that you can look cool in an apron...kinda

2nd year Pharmacy students, Meghan, Maureen, Lindsay, and Suzy worked with the children, photography station, and coloring station

BCM Director, Bryan, polishing teeth. (She's really not in as much pain as she looks...trust me.)

2011 BCM Alum of UTHSC, Hunter, helps 3rd year student, Blane give an injection

Suzy displaying the toothbrushes we gave out to each child along with tooth paste, a pair of sunglasses and a photograph of themselves

Amanda

The photography and children's station

2nd year dental student, Amanda assisting Matt with a filling

Rebekah, Ashley, Dr. Wilson, Anne Marie and one of our translators, Dani

Charlie, Brent, Laura, and Jessi at our instrument sterilization station

Nick, Blane, and BCM Alum of UTHSC, Darren

Ecuador-Monday, May 30, 2011

2011-05-30T23:29:00.002-05:00

Today was our first day in clinic. I wasn’t sure what to expect on the ride over, but as soon as we stepped off the bus we were greeted by tons of excited kids. After only one year of dental school under my belt, I hadn’t had a lot of hands-on experience. By the end of the day, I had extracted several teeth, learned how to administer anesthesia, and realized that my Spanish speaking ability is horrible. I did make some strides in breaking through the language barrier by spending some time conversing with a little girl named Gema. She did her best to teach me some good stuff. My goal by the end of the week is to be fluent so Gema will no longer giggle at me when I talk to her.

Anyone that knows me well knows that I love to eat. With that being said, lunch was definitely a highlight. The local church provided us with an awesome spread of chicken patties, rice, veggies, and cake. They encouraged us to eat as much as our hearts desired, so…lets just say I took them at their word.

It’s crazy that you come all this way to provide help and support, but your heart is the one that is actually changed. That is so true for me. I have been completely amazed at how incredible the people are here. I received a huge blessing by getting to interact with the people of Ecuador today. God is once again humbling me and reminding me to put things in the right perspective. Overall, today was definitely a ten. I’m having a blast with the team we have here. Everyone certainly worked hard and left it all out there today. I am so thankful to God that I am here.

Ps. Blane—Nick and I would really enjoy a full nights rest without interruption. We really need to reevaluate who keeps the master key. Thanks, Corey

By Corey, 2nd year Dental student

A picture is truly worth a thousand words. After spending one day at our mission site, I have never found an old saying to be so true as a pharmacy student on a primarily dental based trip, I wasn’t exactly sure what I would be doing or where our place would fall. We were told we would be spending time with the children waiting to get their dental work done, conducting eye exams and doing photography-a job I never thought would be so rewarding.

The children flied in the room one by one with looks of apprehension and fear on their faces. With overly excited American grad students “oo-ing and ah-ing” at how precious they were, large black dental chairs/tables awaiting them, and the continuous sound of drilling from dental equipment, I can’t say I blame them. The photography station was each child’s first stop, some accompanied by their mother or family members, and others were all alone. We greeted each child with a “como te llamas” (meaning “what is your name” for those who, like most of us, need help with translation” and encouraged them to smile with the word “Sonrei” or by simply using hand gestures. Although some of the children were shyer than others, I quickly realized how easily a warm smile or gentle tone could put a child at ease. Words cannot describe some of the children’s reactions when they saw their face on the photo, most grinning from ear to ear. It’s funny how something we so easily take for granted, such as taking a picture, can be so remarkable to someone else.

After today, I realized I do not need a specific “place” or duty to serve others in honor of God to make a difference. Whether it be holding the hand of a scared child, taking what may be the first and only photograph a mother will have of her child, cleaning teeth of children at the clinic, (or “prophy” as the dental students say), or simply praying for these children, their families, the church and this country; I know it is the exact place I am supposed to be. Although it took a total of about 2 minutes to take the picture and print it off and decorate a black cardboard picture frame with Spanish quotes of “God is love,” and “God loves you,” the looks on these children’s faces and their parents receiving these masterpieces, will remain in our hearts for a lifetime.

By Lindsay, 2nd year Pharmacy student

Breaking through the clouds above Quito in the cover of dark, we began our decent into the city that we call home for this one week. I had prepared for months. Supplies. Spanish lessons. This was what I had waited for. Little did I know, that that breathing decent over the mountains would only be an introduction.

This is my first international trip. I knew I would learn. I knew I would help. And most of all, I knew I would be ready. Yeah, right. Being one of 2.2 million people traversing the bustling streets of the capital city puts things in perspective real quick. I mean, real quick.

As you’ve read, we spent our first day in-country traveling the city. It’s a funny feeling driving 45 minutes from Quito to…Quito. I can’t accurately explain where we are in the city at any given time because at any given time, we are still somewhere in that same city. Again, humbling.

But the one thing that makes Ecuador so special is its people. Being in a foreign place with a foreign language, I assumed this group would remain self-contained with little outside influence. Yeah, right. There are very special people here that have shown us tremendous love before even stepping foot into the clinic. But that’s what we’re here for, right?

I don’t think I have all the answers, and I know each day I am constantly reminded of that. However, I know that our God works through love. He is seen in our love. And he will always be love. We are here to provide healthcare to those who wouldn’t otherwise have it, but what if we were here for more? What if we were here to be reminded of God’s love that transcends language, country, and circumstances? What if seeing a child smile after receiving sunglasses or holding their hand while in the dental chair wasn’t meant for their benefit, but ours? Tonight, I go to bed thankful to serve a God bigger than my wildest dreams and anxious to make the drive back to that small piece of this vast city so I can experience what love really is.

Ps. Blane--I agree with Corey. Thanks, Nick

By Nick, 2nd year Dental Student

Day one at the clinic in Quito.

Ecuador-Sunday, May 29, 2011

2011-05-29T22:36:00.005-05:00

Traveling was an adventure…I got to Ecuador, but not my luggage, not so much. That’s just a little aside, but the epic nature of the adventure started in the airport. Walking out after going through customs, we were met by a crowd of thousands of Ecuadorians. All of their faces anxiously awaited a loved one with signs, banners, and balloons. The exhilaration came when I noticed that I could see over everyone. I am huge over here! (just kidding)

As we drove around Sunday, the buildings seemed to echo the same tired spirit I saw in the people’s eyes at the airport. The further up the side of the mountain we went, the more worn the houses became. In America, these houses would have million dollar views; however, the poorer people live in the higher elevations in Quito. The Andes Mountains are known for their high peaks and deep crevices, but along every angle, cinder blocks were laid. The houses were quite literally stacked on top of each other.

Quito has a population of 2.2 million people. The communities stretch over every hill as far as I can see. Kids play soccer in dirt fields, there is no space between the road and the shops. Houses and shops share the same area. Clothes hang drying from every building. I’m praying God opens my eyes to needs not necessarily seen on the surface. And that medicine can somehow be a passage in to more than physical healing.

By Charlie, 2nd year Medical Student

As with every story in life, there are three sides: my side, your side, and the truth. Today we visited two locations claiming to be the middle of the world, or 00.00,00.00. Both locations displayed fantastic evidence for their claims intermingled with stories, arts, and crafts of Ecuador’s rich culture, so everyone won.

At the first location we experienced a thorough tour of the site, from the tribes of Ecuador and their way of life, to the recipe for how to shrink your enemy’s head…per the ancient practices of Ecuadorian tribes. Our tour guide, Andreas, showed us a sun guide and gave a demonstration of the clockwise and counterclockwise movement of water when it drains based on its relation to the equator. Andreas earned some cool points when he balanced an egg on a nail as a demonstration of the effects of the earth’s gravity at the equator. Everyone tried to balance the egg, but we all failed. At the end of our tour, we were shown the ancient trade of weaving and witnessed a man weaving upside down. I immediately regressed to my 3^rd grade self and bought my friend a brightly woven friendship bracelet. I said goodbye to the sheep I’d made friends with and then we headed to the next location.

The second location was more of a museum style. There were several shops there, which sold everything from hammocks to coasters. Our group bought both and everything in between.

The thrill of being in the middle(s) of the world is indescribable. As we get older, we get caught up in the hustle and bustle at everyday life, so it was amazing to experience something almost magical again.

By Suzy, 2nd year Pharmacy student

This afternoon we left Tambo Real, our hotel in the heart of Quito, Ecuador, for a church service at Inglesia Methodista, “Agua de Vida.” I honestly pictured a small white building off a main road in central Quito with metal chairs and the typical layout of any American service, but in Spanish. What I found was quite different. If you’ve ever experienced a large passenger bus sliding around high-elevation dirt/mud roads that are only wide enough for a compact car, much less a bus, you’ve experienced our trip to and from the church. And if you’ve ever experienced a moving and humbling Spanish-spoken service overlooking a vas city with mountains and clouds in the not-so-far-off distance, you’ve experienced our service.

But what really made this experience so special to me was the people. Despite the poverty of this area, every member of our group was given a rose, proving that hospitality and kindness is possible whatever one’s circumstance. Despite continuing technical issues, the service proceeded proving determination is the key requirement for success. And finally, despite the language barrier, I found Dr. Ramerro Balseca’s message to be extremely personal and uplifting, proving, once again, that God truly is everywhere, and if you listen, he will be there to comfort and encourage you when you least expect it.

By Jessi, 2nd year Dental student

This is our group standing on the equator at the Middle of the World.

Made it!

2011-05-29T06:53:00.002-05:00

We arrived safely in Quito last night around 10 pm. However, half our luggage did not. No worries though, we should have it by tonight when the next Delta flight comes in. After we got here we went straight to bed. Check back throughout the week for updates and photos.

Going to Ecuador!

2011-05-27T16:18:00.003-05:00

The BCM is going on a health field mission trip to Ecuador tomorrow, May 28th-June 4th. Keep us in your prayers as we travel. Check back all this week as this blog will be updated periodically. We'll have photos and videos a plenty.

BCM students in the news

2010-10-27T17:57:00.001-05:00

Click here to read a story about our students at the UTHSC BCM.

A Beautiful Sound

2010-06-12T17:42:00.001-05:00

Just a piece of our Jamaica Mission trip

2010 Beast Feast

2010-04-30T21:14:00.004-05:00

April 27th the BCM @ UTHSC held its first ever Beast Feast. We hope to make this an annual event. This event was completely organized by the student leadership team, AKA- The Beast Feast Crew. Their hard work made this event a tremendous success. The appetizers included bacon wrapped meatballs, cream cheese and jalapeno stuffed deer wrapped in bacon, turkey barbecue and deer sausage with cheese. The main course was Ms. Maggie's world famous Memphis BBQ pork shoulder, BBQ baked beans, scalloped potatoes, and rolls.

Dozens of Memphis businesses and restaurants donated door prizes and we gave them away throughout the night. Speaker, Jimmy Sites from Spiritual Outdoor Adventures, delivered the message to the 90+ in attendance. It was a great night that raised over $1,600.00 for UTHSC BCM ministry. To top it all off, two people accepted Christ at the event and several more requested prayer. God is doing big things at the UTHSC BCM.

The trophies on the wall were donated by our students.

There were 85 chairs filled and 5-7 people standing throughout the night.

Upon entering, guests registered their names for the grand prize drawing provided by our Speaker's sponsors.

Speaker, Jimmy Sites recruited 3rd year Dental student, Jacob to help him with an illustration. (Jacob was playing the "Spawn of Satan" role)

The Beast Feast Crew (L to R): Zach, Nathan, Jacob, Jimmy, Matt, Hunter, and Bryan.

(Not pictured are Caleb, John, Vance, and Walt)

Are River Rocks Valuable?

2010-02-16T11:00:00.002-06:00

¹ When the whole nation had finished crossing the Jordan, the LORD said to Joshua, ² "Choose twelve men from among the people, one from each tribe, ³ and tell them to take up twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan from right where the priests stood and to carry them over with you and put them down at the place where you stay tonight."

⁴ So Joshua called together the twelve men he had appointed from the Israelites, one from each tribe, ⁵ and said to them, "Go over before the ark of the LORD your God into the middle of the Jordan. Each of you is to take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, ⁶ to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you, 'What do these stones mean?' ⁷ tell them that the flow of the Jordan was cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever."

⁸ So the Israelites did as Joshua commanded them. They took twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, as the LORD had told Joshua; and they carried them over with them to their camp, where they put them down. ⁹ Joshua set up the twelve stones that had been in the middle of the Jordan at the spot where the priests who carried the Ark of the Covenant had stood. And they are there to this day."

--Joshua 4:1-9

These 12 stones were chosen and taken from a place where God taught the Israelites something. A place where God did an amazing miracle to deliver them. The stones themselves were not magical. They were not golden stones or even valuable ones. They were just river rocks. But they were assigned a value because of what they represented. Much like diamonds. Diamonds are just rocks. However, they are valuable because of the value we place on them and what they represent. Diamonds often represent love and commitment associated with marriage or engagement. They are also synonymous with wealth. Regardless of how much diamonds cost, they are still rocks that are valuable because of what they represent. For the Israelites, these river rocks represented something greater than the rocks themselves. They served as a reminder or a signpost if you will that pointed beyond themselves to the God who delivered them. They served as a reminder not only to their generation but also to their children’s generation.

As I look back on my life at the times where God did something amazing, my memories serve as my river rocks. My signposts. There was the time when I accepted Christ as my savior at 4 years old. Then there was the time as a 7^th grader when God challenged me to step up my walk with him. I’ll never forget that night before I started 9^th grade when I felt God calling me into ministry. Graduation day of High School was another time where God directed my path from Samford University to Auburn University only to bring me back to Samford 4 years later for grad school. There were dark times where God delivered me as well. For instance, my junior year of college when my fiancé and I broke up, then I lost my job as a youth minister, at the same time my truck was broken into, I changed my major in college and also my Seminary destination. Throughout all those changes in my life, God was working to get me where he wanted me. Then, the day I married my wife was another day where God did something amazing. The day when I graduated Beeson Divinity School. My mission trip to Brazil. My first book published. And more recently, accepting my first job; which ironically was 23 years exactly to the day from when I accepted Christ—the first signpost along my journey.

If you were to look at your life and were asked to pick up a “stone” from each place where God did something amazing, what would that look like? Can you come up with a list? What will you tell your children were the times when God was most real to you? Have you had your first signpost where you accepted Jesus as your savior? Perhaps that day is yet to come. Perhaps it is today.

Pray: Pray that God will reveal to you the times when he did something amazing in your life.

Do: Write down those times that God reveals to you and keep a running list so that one day you’ll look back and see the hand of God working in your life.

Bible Study Christmas Party

2009-12-11T22:30:00.003-06:00

The BCM has two Bible studies, one Monday at the Baptist Student Center and the other on Thursday nights at my wife's and my apartment. This past Thursday night the two groups joined together for a pot-luck Christmas party. Of course everyone else was invited but the Bible study groups brought the food. Most everyone from the Bible studies were there but some couldn't make it. The menu included...are you ready for this?... sausage balls, little smokies, meatballs, cheese straws, brownie bites, portabella mushrooms, scallops on garlic bread, white chocolate covered ritz crackers and peanut butter, bean bundles, cinnamon pecans, fruit and fruit dip, chocolate covered graham crackers, punch, spiced cider, coffee and hot chocolate. WOW! It was fantastic. You never know what you'll get with a pot-luck party.

Bonfire @ The Grove

2009-12-02T11:57:00.006-06:00

Faith Baptist Church in Bartlett, TN recently bought what was once known as Mid-South Baptist Association's Camp Cordova. Now it is called The Grove at Red Oak Lake. Recently our group at the UT Health Science Center BCM took a break from studying for exams to enjoy a night of relaxing by a bonfire roasting hotdogs and smores. We had a fantastic time and are extremely grateful to the folks at The Grove for their facilities.

1 John 1:3 Love them into Fellowship

2009-11-20T11:12:00.005-06:00

“We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We write this to make our joy complete."

NIV—1 John 1:3

Have you ever wanted to be a part of an exclusive group? I’m not talking about an exclusive group that you can pay a certain amount of money to join like a country club. I’m referring to a group of like-minded individuals who choose not to let other people in—regardless of if they have the same views or not. Have you ever been there? Think about if for a second.

John wrote this letter near the middle to end of the first century to a group of people who were being led astray by “new age” thinkers. People called the Gnostics. These people were starting to drift away from the Jesus’ teachings only to follow after the pursuit of knowledge.

I hope you can see John’s heart in this passage. John did not condemn them about their foolishness or mistakes with a “holier than thou” attitude. He wanted to bring them into fellowship with other believers through love. Why? Because he’d seen this love and experienced it through following Jesus. He wanted other people to join him in this fellowship with God, the Father and Son, Jesus even if they’d made bad decisions.

Now, think about the church or ministry to which you belong. Is the mindset of your church or ministry to include people in your fellowship or is it to exclude people from your group? Ouch. Maybe we don’t think about that enough outside the realms of evangelism. Maybe we need to realize that there are people in our world that want to be included in what you and I have.

Why do you think people come to church? Is it the riveting communicator behind the pulpit? Is it the high level of entertainment found on a drop-down projector screen in front of the baptismal? Is it the food? (okay, maybe it is the food.) Is it the cutting edge music topping the Billboard 100? Of course not. People come to church to find something different—something the world cannot offer them. They come hoping to find unconditional love and acceptance. There are only a small percentage of people in this world who think they’ve done nothing wrong. Most people know the mistakes in his or her own life—we are all just looking for someone to look past those mistakes and love us anyway.

If your church’s mission is to do anything other than love God by loving people, make a change. I’m not saying to change churches—that goes on WAY too much. If I can put a Christian spin on Ghandi's quote, I’m talking about being the change you want to see in your church. If you start loving people and including them into your fellowship, you will see people come by the droves just to be loved by a church that will love like Jesus loved.

Two Qs and a Go:

1. Would you say your church or ministry does more to entertain people? Or to love people?

2. How do YOU love the people who walk through your church doors?

Go: If you are not a part of a church body I’d encourage you to not find a church that would best serve you but to find one that you can best serve.

BCM Women and Wives at Seize the Clay

2009-11-20T09:00:00.001-06:00

Welcome

2009-11-11T14:47:00.001-06:00

Thank you for visiting the UTHSC BCM blog. Here you will find a weekly devotional from 1 John, the current book we are working through in our Bible study. You will also find photos from mission trips and other events by the Baptist Collegiate Ministry. Enjoy!