The Recovery Process of Three Honduran Women in the Gastroenterology Program

The stories of Ma Aurora, María Josefina, and Dionny Consuelo—three elderly women—highlight the life-changing impact of CAMO’s Gastroenterology Program. Thanks to this initiative, they are receiving the care and treatment needed to improve their quality of life.

“I Felt Good Again”: Ma Aurora’s Recovery Journey After Leaving the ICU  

Accompanied by two of her daughters, Ma Aurora Gómez, a 66-year-old lady from La Unión, Lempira, visited the Hospital de Occidente for a follow-up appointment as part of her recovery process after suffering a severe digestive tract injury a year ago.  

A year earlier, Ma Aurora had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to a hemorrhage that nearly cost her life. Her family explained that her condition worsened because there were no gastroenterology specialists available in her community. She had to travel four hours to receive the specialized care offered through CAMO’s program.  

“I feel good again. I’m undergoing treatment, and I’ve noticed improvement,” said Ma Aurora. 

Relief for Josefina’s Gastritis  

At 78 years old, María Pérez, from La Entrada, Copán, diligently follows her treatment for gastritis through CAMO’s Gastroenterology Program. She shared that she has been struggling with the condition for six years, making it difficult for her to eat properly. However, with the care of specialist Dr. Candy Leiva, her condition is now under control.  

Personalized Care for Dionny Consuelo  

Dionny Consuelo Valenzuela, aged 72, visited the Gastroenterology Program for the first time for a routine check-up, which included an endoscopy to assess her health. She remarked on the exceptional care she received, highlighting the friendly and comforting environment during the procedure.  

Accessible Services for All  

CAMO’s Gastroenterology Program is one of the 26 programs offered by CAMO in western Honduras. This initiative operates from a dedicated unit within the Hospital de Occidente, where CAMO provides medical equipment and the hospital supplies the physical space.  

Three volunteer doctors deliver specialized care to patients in need. The team consists of pediatric gastroenterologist Gabriela Duarte and gastroenterologists Víctor López and Candy Leiva. These specialists treat a wide range of conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, pancreas, liver, and bile ducts in both children and adults.