My Personal Story of Life-Saving Care

Written by Ann Rhomberg, Executive Director

For many years now, I've had the opportunity to participate in the beautiful work of Solidarity Bridge. I've witnessed life-changing events that are part of our mission story and I continue praying for the grace to see how these events can inform my role as Executive Director and life at large. Our immense mission activities here in the U.S, Bolivia, and Paraguay can shore up both heart-warming and heart-breaking realities, often in the same moment. I reflected on this duality while recently caring for my mother in our hometown of Dubuque, Iowa. 

At about 8pm on a chilly midwestern evening, my 89-year-old mother had a sudden onset of severe abdominal pain with chest discomfort, too. Never a complainer, my brother and I knew she needed immediate care. We called an ambulance and soon after arriving at the hospital, we learned that emergency gallbladder surgery was recommended. Just hours later, my mom was out of the OR and on her way to recovering from the minimally-invasive surgical procedure that likely saved her life. 

A mere two days later, we were out of the hospital and back at home. As I went about my Solidarity Bridge work, I was acutely aware, more than ever, how important timely access to safe surgery can be. I was also observing first hand, the enormous advantage of minimally-invasive procedures—techniques we promote in all of our surgical programs—which dramatically improve recovery time and reduce risks of surgical complications.

One month after Mom's surgery

For those of us who participate in the daily care of our aging parents, each day can bring about new health challenges and concerns. I'm grateful for this experience of healing in Iowa, but my heart aches for all who continue to suffer, especially those waiting hopelessly for surgery that they cannot access. We should all be astounded that, despite medical advancements, 18 million people die each year from illnesses that could be treated with surgery.  With a heavy, heavy heart, I can’t stop thinking about the 18 million families who mourn the loss of loved ones—each year—because surgery is not accessible to them.

In the name of these individuals and families, Solidarity Bridge’s work to increase access to safe and timely surgical care continues. In their name, my inner work continues, too. Each day, I ask God to help me see the world with new possibilities, and to give me the grace to know my part in healing our broken world.