This month we would like to share Dr. David Taquira's story with each of you. Dr. Taquira came to Nebaj two years ago to serve his dental internship at Vida y Esperanza. It has been a great blessing to work with this young dentist and see the love and care he lavishes on each patient.  One of the medical teams who served in Nebaj this past year saw the need our dental clinic had for updated equipment and provided funds to purchase some new state of the art equipment. There is no doubt that team was a great blessing to the ministry in Nebaj. Thanks once again to the Ruby team from Grace Community Church in Maryland.

Donna Capps

Dr. David Taquira's story

I never thought that doing an internship in Nebaj during my last year of college would bring about so many blessings in my life.I remember that day as if it were yesterday-May 6, 2008.I was happy to be nearing the end of my studies, but also very nervous about moving and working in an unfamiliar place.I am originally from Patzun, Chimaltenango, which is about 124 miles from Nebaj. But as God would have it, since I have been here, there have been many new experiences, many new friends, and His many blessings.

Practicing odontology in Nebaj with Servicios Medicos Vida y Esperanza (Life & Hope Medical Services) has been a true blessing to me. The vision of this ministry, together with the help and service we provide, is extremely gratifying. Dr. Juan Pablo Noriega and his wife Carolina have shown me much love and support to the point where I now share a residence with Pastor Noe Martinez, pastor of Iglesia Cristo Salva (Christ Saves Church), in a cabin Missionary Ventures built. Pastor Noe ministers to the spiritual needs of our patients. I take care of their dental needs.

During these past two years, I have worked anywhere between 8 to 17 hours a day with children and adult patients.  We offer quality, low cost services with lots of love and understanding, and when necessary, at no charge to the patient/family.

This reflects the love and care with which Dr. Juan Pablo and Carolina treat their coworkers, friends, and patients. We are able to offer quality work and maintain costs at the minimum because of all the donations; financial support and prayers received from the different donors and team members that come to the hospital.

Thanks to a medical team that visited last year we have been able to equip the dental clinic with new equipment. Their generous donation allowed us to purchase a new amalgamator, lead vest, Intra-oral camera with LDC screen (the patients can watch me work in their mouth), installation of suction pump system, chairs and miscellaneous materials such as toothbrushes and tooth paste.

Being a witness to all the generosity of total strangers has helped me to grow not only professionally, but also spiritually, since they are demonstrating Jesus love for us. This has motivated me to follow that example by participating in mission trips to other countries through Missionary Ventures Guatemala.I have experienced much satisfaction in serving others, as we share our gifts and His word.

Dr. David Taquira