Judy’s Medical Missions Return to Viatorian Parish in Belize
2/21/2012
As visiting medics, Judy’s Medical Missions is a force to be reckoned with. They returned this month from their 13th trip down to St. Francis Xavier Church in Corozal Town, Belize and the numbers of residents they treat — is astounding.
In a little over one week, the group — two physicians, seven registered nurses, two paramedics and a physical therapist — saw more than 1,200 patients.
They take their name from Judy Glancy, the registered nurse from Moline, IL that started the group. Her son, Fr. Chris Glancy, CSV, was among the first Viatorians to establish the mission in Belize.
“It is truly an international effort,” says Fr. Dan Hall, CSV, pastor, who points to their partnership with Viatorian Associate Rafael Cob, and Soraya Rosado, both social services staff members at the parish in Belize, as well as with local translators.
Jackie Dupon, a parishioner at St. Viator Parish in Chicago and physical therapist, has returned nearly every year since 2003, after responding to a plea in the parish bulletin for medical personnel to help provide care.
“I had wanted to do mission work,” Jackie says, “and this seemed the ideal way to do so.”
Charlene Cioe of Arlington Heights is another veteran. She is a registered nurse, now working in administration at Alexian Brothers Medical Center. As a member of Judy’s Medical Missions, she returns her to her roots in hands-on nursing.
“Many of the residents have diabetes, asthma and high blood pressure,” Charlene says. “We give them education in managing these chronic diseases. It’s very rewarding for us to be able to provide basic care they can’t get otherwise.”