The HUGS Foundation, Inc. Team

Founder and President of HUGS Foundation, Inc.
“When you do something you have a passion for it gives you energy. You don’t have to be paid for it and you’ll do it all day long without being asked to do it. I feel that it really embodies what medicine is all about.”

“I have been fortunate to serve a medical mission four times with HUGS. This is the very reason I became a nurse. I completely fall in love with our patients and their families. I go home after volunteering and feel like I got more out of the experience than the patients.”

“This is my second year with HUGS. I cannot say enough good things about the amazing work that is done by this group of dedicated professionals. I feel so blessed to be able to give back.”

“I’ve been on three missions, and each one seems to be more moving and more fun than the last. Every mission week destroys, humbles, and rejuvenates me. HUGS changes lives. I’m honored to be a part of their team and hope to stay involved for years to come!”

“This was my first mission trip, and I loved it so much that I’m going back again next year! This work has made a huge impact on me — just knowing that I played a small part in changing the lives of these children.”

“This mission trip not only impacted my career as a nurse but impacted my life in so many ways that I could’ve never imagined. To see people who traveled from all over Guatemala to seek our help and medical expertise was so touching and heartwarming. Being able to see all of our smiling patients’ faces after surgery makes all that we do just that much more enjoyable!”

“I have been on five HUGS missions to Antigua as a play therapy volunteer. I help the children and parents with games, coloring pages, and easy crafts. It helps to pass the time, and the children and parents form friendships. It fills my heart to see the smiles as we play. This week lives in my mind all year. The dedication of the staff and the appreciation of the patients is a wonder to behold.”

“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.”

“The HUGS medical missions are always the best weeks of my year and remind me of why I became a doctor. I always feel inspired when I get back from a medical mission with HUGS.”

“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.”