Day 13

Jan. 13, 2017

Our incredible journey at Stella Maris has come to an end today! 
The mission of the Students for Global Communication organization of Texas A&M University-Kingsville was to educate and provide speech-language services to underprivileged children around the world; one sound, one word, one child at a time. This experience has provided that opportunity, and I speak for all the members of the Students for Global Communication organization when I say we will be leaving with much more than we could have ever expected. I personally feel I have grown as a clinician and more so as an individual. The teachers and students of Stella Maris radiate with optimism, positivity, and humbleness despite the obstacles (as we see them) they face. 

Today we met a little boy who recently lost his brother, cousins, belongings, and shelter in a tragic house fire. When most would sense devastation, he found the light. He has been collecting cans and cutting lawns in order to provide his family with income to supply their basic needs. What child in the states would react this way, would help in the time of need, would despite tragedy be grateful for all they have? I am amazed by the people of Belize and their culture—giving, friendly, and hospitable. It is definitely not what I expected to face in this country. 

In the morning we had the chance to partake in a Devotion Ceremony hosted by a specific classroom at Stella Maris. The ceremony included a religious skit, praise and worship songs in Creole and sign language, the national anthem, questions about scripture readings, outstanding student awards, and gifts as a thanks to us for partaking in the education of their students and staff. It was amazing to be a part of such a powerful ceremony, their passion for their culture and religion truly touched my heart. 

Saying goodbye to our students and assigned teachers was the hardest part of the faculty led program so far! We have witnessed tremendous improvements among the children despite our short stay. Four nonverbal children said their first words, a child who was deaf with limited sign learned twenty signs within a span of ten minutes, one child communicated their need to use the restroom for the very first time, those with sensory needs eliminated mouthing objects, etc. It devastates me that there is so much more we can do as graduate clinicians to enhance the language and communication of these students—my only hope is that the teachers continue what we have taught them and allow the children to partake in opportunities that exercise their communication skills. 

A part of Stella Maris will always be with me, in heart and spirit. I am truly blessed to have been able to impact the lives of children in need. In a way, this trip has instilled a sense of confidence in my abilities as a future speech-language pathologist. From this point on I hope to be a light for all those I come in contact with. Belize will always be my home away from home!