Regional Medical Camp: St. Louis, MO
In October 2024, members of the Sri Sathya Sai International Organization (SSSIO) Mid-Central Region of USA held their annual medical camp at the International Institute in downtown St. Louis, MO. The medical camp served a diverse population of Hispanics, African Americans, Asians, and Caucasian residents of the downtown neighborhood, and additionally, recently immigrated Afghans. More than 20 medical providers, and 10 mid-level providers (such as nurse practitioners, and medical students) volunteered enthusiastically. They ministered to more than 100 guests with a wide range of free services, including flu shots, vital health checks (height, weight, BMI, blood pressure), blood tests (glucose, cholesterol, HDL, HbA1c) and free screenings for asthma, bone density, hearing, and vision.
Guests also received safety education (including helmet fitting for children), preventive health practices (child and adult yoga, chair yoga, meditation, mindfulness), and preventive health education on cancer and diabetes. Women received health education focused on breast self-exams and mammogram scheduling. All guests were treated to a nutritious lunch and children joyously received free backpacks.
Volunteers and doctors expressed deep satisfaction with their participation. One volunteer shared, “I have been serving at several of these SSSIO Medical camps in St. Louis this past decade and it has always been a heart touching experience. I look forward to meeting people and being of service to them each time.”
A doctor participant said, “the service helps me to understand people, cultivates humility in me and taking care of their needs provides me with the utmost pleasure.”
Another doctor added “there is so much satisfaction in giving without expecting anything in return. It is extremely rewarding, and I would recommend more people to come forward and serve.