The HUGS Foundation, Inc. Team

“The HUGS mission trips remind me of why I became a nurse. The ability to help so many patients and families receive care that is otherwise unavailable to them is so gratifying. It changes their lives. Their appreciation for the care we can provide them just warms my heart. I also feel so lucky to work with the many dedicated professionals who I meet on the trips. It does not feel like work when you do something that you love. “

“The week I spend in Guatemala volunteering to help children with microtia is incredibly rewarding on multiple levels. It reminds me of why I became a doctor in the first place.”

“Having had the opportunity to work with several other international surgical organizations, what makes HUGS unique is the people behind the mission. Some of the world’s most talented surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and techs coming together with their hearts and skills to help the lives of others. It is truly a beautiful thing.”

“Trips with HUGS have become the highlight of my year. Seeing a team of people come together to help others for all the right reasons is the reason I became a doctor. The patients and their families are so kind, welcoming, and appreciative and it makes me want to do this forever. Missions with HUGS change their lives, and mine, for the better.”

“Each case we do is a powerful reminder of the difference we can make through compassion, skill, and teamwork. I’m incredibly proud to be part of such a dedicated and passionate team that comes together with one shared goal: to bring hope, happiness, and a smile to those who need it most.”

“The opportunity to participate in the HUGS mission trips has been one of the most satisfying, fulfilling, and rewarding parts of my career as a facial plastic surgeon. It is such a privilege to help take care of these amazing children and their families, and to be part of such an amazing team of dedicated volunteers!”

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

“I have volunteered on four HUGS missions to Guatemala, and they have been the greatest honor and privilege of my nursing career. It is absolutely amazing to be a part of such a dedicated group of professionals. Also, the people of Guatemala are so friendly, warm, and thankful for everything that they have and are given. It is a great source of pride and joy to be of service to them and to be able to work alongside them at the hospital as well.”

“It has been a tremendous privilege for me to participate in HUGS medical missions and help provide care for patients who are in such great need. The immense outpouring of joy and appreciation from our patients is a wonderful reminder of why I became a doctor and keeps me looking forward to the next opportunity to support HUGS.”

“I’ve had the honor of being on five (and counting!) missions. The patients and families are so appreciative of us, the feelings of gratitude are heartwarming and give me so much joy. These are the best weeks of the year and I’m always looking forward to the next.”

Dr. Andrew Jacono
Dr. Andrew Joseph
Dr. Ben Talei
Dr. Bryan Brandon
Dr. Christopher Kolstad
Dr. Clinton Morrison
Dr. David Lieberman
Dr. Frank Garritano
Dr. James Owusu
Dr. James Pearson
Dr. Jennifer Kim
Dr. Joseph Dusseldorp
Dr. Marcelo Antunes
Dr. Neal Goldman
Dr. Paul Sabini
Dr. Prabhat Bhama
Dr. Scott Thompson
Dr. Tessa Hadlock
Dr. Thomas Walker
Dr. Tom Wang
Dr. Vito C. Quatela
Dr. William Koenig