Off to Coroico, Bolivia

Written by Mara O'Brien Airplane to Miami

I’m off to Coroico, Bolivia, and if all goes as planned, we’ll arrive—after 2 airplanes and a 3-hour bus ride—24 hours after we met at O’Hare. I am full of emotions as I begin the mission trip with 26 fellow travellers and our 35 suitcases (plus 27 carry-on bags). 

I am relieved.  After months of planning, both at Solidarity Bridge and at home, I know it is time to turn it over to God.

I am thankful for everyone who has helped make this mission trip possible. The list is long and includes the in-kind donors who donated the medical supplies, the volunteers who packed them into the suitcases, my colleagues who poured over the trip logistics, the financial contributors who help make it all possible, and my support system at home who will care for my two young girls while I am in Bolivia. 

I am afraid. No amount of planning will fully ready me for everything that I’ll encounter on this 10-day adventure.

I am eager to welcome into my heart the missioners and patients I’ll meet, the pain and suffering of our patients, the joy and transformation brought by our life-changing work, and the chance to experience solidarity in our world. 

Finally, I am at peace knowing I am being called to do God’s work and He’ll shepherd me as He has before.

Join me on this journey to Coroico, Bolivia. Welcome!