Lima Clinic

Going on a Lions in Sight Mission is not a right but a privilege. All 18 of us (8 Optometrists and 10 Technicians) certainly felt that way as we made our way to Lima, Peru to serve the poor. The Mission to Peru has to rank as one of the best Missions that the Lions In Sight have ever conducted. How can you possibly beat serving 4800 Peruvians over a four day period and then go to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Machu Pichu.

We served 4800 Peruvians over a four day period which translates to 150 patients per doctor per day. This amazing statistic is even more amazing as Dr Pond was ill with “Delhi Belly”( a far tamer version is Montezuma’s revenge) for one of the days and yet continued to work the usual 12 hours every day. Dr John Demshar ( lead doctor for the Mission) seemed to disagree with the total Peruvians served but then we had to remind him that he is an Optometrist and not an accountant!!

Every great event has to start with the idea that finally germinates and grows to fulfillment and this is where our Chief Operating Officer, Dr Bill Iannacone absolutely shines. I challenge anyone who knows more Lions on this planet than he does. He got in touch with Lion Gina , a Lion in Peru , who he had met years ago as a teenager and the ball soon got rolling. Eight doctors were soon signed up with stellar work done by the two lead Doctors – Dr. Demshar and Dr Sarver. Lion Gina soon got the Lions of Machu Pichu organized and the trip of a lifetime soon came into fruition.

I could go on and on but here are the excerpts from some team members in their own words.

From Doctor Solanky – a first timer for a Lions In Sight Mission

Even though I have been on missions before Lima, I have to say that this was one of the best missions by far. Not only was it a successful mission, but every single person I met was such a pleasure to work with. We were a cohesive team. Being that this was my first mission with the Lions Club and most of the team knew each other, you would think I would have felt a little out of place at times. However, not once did this happen. I felt like part of the family from the moment I arrived. Even the Lions Club of Lima and all the volunteers were just so wonderful! The whole experience went so smoothly, and everything was very organized. Thank you for a great experience, and thank you Bill and John for inviting me on this mission. I hope to see each and everyone of you on another mission, and I have already told my other OD friends about this great organization

From Doctor Catchatoorian – Another first timer for a Lions In Sight Mission

Thanks to all for a rewarding experience. The organization and leadership was impressive. Looking forward to see everyone on future trips.

From Elizabeth Miller – Technician

Although I have only done 2 Mexico missions with Bob and enjoyed them both tremendously they in no way prepared me for this one. We both keep saying to each other and all of our friends here this was one of the best experiences we have ever had. This clinic was amazing and so gratifying for me. The way everyone on the teams worked hard but always kept a positive attitude made it fun to be there every day. Our off time was a blast and the trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu were just icing on the cake.

My only question is “how did you manage to get such a great group of people together on one trip?”

We would be honored to be included on any other missions you have planned .

Do I need to say more ?

Khush