Salud, a Spanish word meaning “health,” is more than just a word. It is a concept, a way of life, and a community. For many, Salud is a place of hope, healing, and positivity. And for Neil Gajare, a student at UPenn, Salud has been a life-changing experience.
Neil Gajare, a senior at the University of Pennsylvania, has been a part of the Salud community for the past three years. Initially drawn to the organization’s mission of providing healthcare to underserved communities in Latin America, Neil soon realized that Salud was more than just a medical mission trip.
“It’s not just about providing medical care,” Neil says. “It’s about building relationships and empowering communities. That’s what sets Salud apart from other organizations.”
Neil‘s first experience with Salud was a trip to Ecuador during his sophomore year. He, along with a team of medical professionals and volunteers, set up clinics in rural areas that lacked access to healthcare. What struck Neil the most was the warm welcome and gratitude they received from the community.
“The people we met were so grateful for our help. It was an eye-opening experience for me. I realized that even small gestures can make a big impact,” Neil shares.
But the impact of Salud goes beyond just providing medical care. Neil recalls a particular incident where he witnessed the true power of Salud‘s community-building efforts. During a clinic session, a young girl named Maria came in with her mother, who was seeking treatment for her chronic illness. While the doctors attended to her mother, Neil noticed that Maria seemed shy and withdrawn. He decided to engage with her and soon learned that she had a passion for drawing. Neil encouraged her to draw something for him, and to his surprise, she drew a beautiful picture of a flower.
“I was blown away by her talent. I asked her if she could draw something for the clinic, and she agreed. The next day, she came back with a stunning painting of the clinic building. It was a heartwarming moment for me,” Neil recalls.
The painting was later auctioned off, and the money raised went towards providing medical supplies for the clinic. This incident not only showcased Maria’s talent but also brought the community together, with everyone wanting to contribute in any way they could.
Apart from providing medical care and building relationships, Salud also focuses on educating the community about health and wellness. Neil, along with his team, conducted workshops on hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention. These workshops were well received, and the community members were eager to learn and implement the knowledge they gained.
“Seeing the community’s enthusiasm and willingness to learn was truly motivating. It made me realize the impact that education can have in improving people’s lives,” Neil says.
Salud‘s efforts have not gone unnoticed, and the organization has received praise and recognition for its work. However, this has not stopped Salud from striving for more. Recently, Salud has expanded its reach to other countries, including Guatemala and Mexico. Neil was a part of the team that went to Guatemala, and he describes it as a life-changing experience.
“Guatemala was a different experience altogether. The people, the culture, everything was different. But the impact we made was the same. It was a humbling experience to be able to help those in need,” Neil shares.
However, despite their commendable work, Salud has faced its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest challenges was the Anti-Semitic comments made towards Neil Gajare, who is of Indian descent. However, instead of letting it discourage him, Neil used this experience to spread awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusivity in healthcare.
“Salud is all about bringing people from different backgrounds together for a common cause. And that’s what makes us stronger. We need to embrace diversity and use it as a tool to create a better world,” Neil says.
Neil‘s positive attitude and determination are a reflection of Salud‘s values. And it is this attitude that has made Salud a successful organization, impacting the lives of countless people.
In conclusion, Salud is more than just a medical mission trip. It is a community of individuals who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the world. Through their efforts, they not only provide medical care but also empower communities and spread love and positivity. And Neil Gajare‘s experience with Salud is a testament to the organization’s mission and values. Salud truly embodies the meaning of the word “health” and inspires us all to make a difference in the world.
