The MMS team arrived in Beroroha at 11:00 a.m. As is typical at this MMS location, multiple forms of transport were required to get there.

After lunch, we began with a courtesy visit to the Medical Inspector and the Chief Physician of Beroroha Hospital, followed by a briefing about the planned activities. He then accompanied us on a visit to the Deputy of the Beroroha District.

As usual, the mission began with a blessing service led by the team pastor, followed by short speeches to inform the many patients who had gathered about the mission.

This time, there was strong collaboration with the hospital staff—particularly the new Chief Physician—who was instrumental in helping to organise the patients.

Story 1:
On the second day of the mission, a child was brought to the hospital with a severely swollen stomach and signs of extreme thinness. An ultrasound revealed a bowel issue. Initially, surgery was considered to identify the exact problem with his intestines. However, after further evaluation by the surgeon and anaesthesiologist, the operation was deemed unfeasible. Due to his frail condition, it was likely that he would not tolerate anaesthesia.

To ease his pain, anti-inflammatory medication was administered. Later, after a change of mind by the surgical team and the hospital’s Chief Physician, the child was given Microlax to help stimulate bowel movement. An anal catheter was also used. A day after receiving Microlax, the child showed slight improvement, although his stomach remained swollen. We remain hopeful that this treatment will help him.

On the final day before our departure, the Deputy of Beroroha invited the MMS team, along with the Medical Inspector and the Chief Physician, to a gathering. This invitation was an honour for the entire team, marking the first time we had been warmly welcomed by the senior officials of the District.

Overall, the mission was a success. The surgical team performed two thyroid operations—procedures that had not been carried out in Beroroha for a long time. Most surgeries conducted were for hernias, hydroceles, thyroid issues, and fistulas.

In terms of ultrasound diagnoses, aside from pregnancy monitoring, we identified cases of renal cysts, thyroid disorders, ascites, splenomegaly, ovarian cysts, hepatic steatosis, and aerocolia.

Common conditions seen during consultations included high blood pressure, coughs, ear infections (otitis), abdominal pain, joint pain, functional syndromes, worm infestations, gastralgia, lower back pain, dermatitis, genital infections, and malaria.

Beroroha is one of the areas with a high prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and tuberculosis.

Throughout the mission, the pastor offered prayers of encouragement, especially for patients who had undergone surgery.

One major challenge in Beroroha is the frequent power outages. However, security in the region has greatly improved. The new head of the district gendarmerie is very strict, which may be why many patients felt safe enough to travel from far away to attend the mission.

Statistics – TOTAL 634

Medical consultation 380; Ultrasound 80; Dental extraction 44; Surgery: major 11, minor 3; Ophthalmology 116