Adventist Hospital-Cebu joined in the worldwide celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Sending Missionaries by holding a free medical mission in Lagtang Gymnasium, Lagtang, Talisay Cebu, on September 15, 2024.
To recall, AH-C, formerly known as H.W. Miller Sanitarium and Hospital, was established by Harry Willis Miller, a missionary who came to the Phillippines in 1956 to help the once small dispensary and clinic. It gradually expanded its facilities and services, eventually becoming a full-fledged hospital in 1962.
On the other hand, the Adventist Church’s commitment to global mission traces back to the first official Adventist missionary, John Nevins Andrews, who embarked on his journey to Europe in 1874, marking the start of an organized effort to spread the Adventist message worldwide. However, even before Andrews, dedicated lay members like Abram La Rue had taken the initiative to share their faith in far-off lands.
Going back to the day-long event, it aimed to provide essential healthcare services to 150 individuals for every service they offered to the local community.
This specific 150-target-per-service was intentionally designed to reflect the 150 years of the Adventist Church’s continuing legacy in sending missionaries, symbolizing their dedication to serving humanity and spreading compassion across the globe.
Nearly a thousand people flocked to the event, eager to avail themselves of the wide array of free services offered by the medical team.
The services included medical and pediatric consultations; thorough eye checkups with free eyeglasses for those in need; dental checkups with tooth extractions; and minor surgical procedures such as cyst removal.
Additionally, the team offered free blood glucose testing, vital signs checking, and 12-leads ECG tracing, which the cardiologists who joined the mission promptly interpreted.
Dr. Leslie P. Adlaon, AH-C vice president for medical affairs, confirmed the healthcare institution’s objective in facilitating this medical mission through a live interview conducted by Hope Channel Central Philippines.
“This is in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Sending Missionaries. We have more than 10 doctors here with us-” Dr. Adlaon said, enumerating the services they catered to.
Beyond physical well-being, the mission also recognized the importance of spiritual health by offering spiritual counseling and conducting children’s classes.
Furthermore, the 14th Civil Military Operation team in Lagtang further contributed to the community’s wellness by offering free haircuts, attracting a long queue of men and children.
Pastor Eliezer ‘Joer’ Barlizo Jr., the president of the Central Philippine Union Conference, attributed the success of this noble endeavor to the Almighty for working on the hearts of many individuals and teams dedicating their time and services for the preparation and completion of this event.
These individuals also included the leaders and members of the Lagtang Adventist Church, the Master Guide Club, Lagtang Chapter, the barangay council of Lagtang, and the volunteers who worked alongside the medical team, ensuring smooth and efficient delivery of all services.
He also expressed gratitude to Dr. Evelyn S. Pepito, the president of AH-C, and the rest of the administrative council for spearheading this meticulously organized and executed community outreach program.
The spirit of the celebration continues after the medical mission. Adventist Hospital-Cebu extends its commitment to community health by offering discounts on selected laboratory tests from September 16-20, 2024, providing opportunities for those who want to avail of essential healthcare services at a reduced cost.
One of the clients shared her delight upon availing of free medical services she couldn’t afford otherwise.
“I am so happy that these Adventists are here in our place. Their services are beyond satisfactory.”
This initiative tells the world about AH-C’s dedication to the ministry through its services and community outreach programs. It reflects the enduring spirit of its 150-year missionary legacy, carrying forward the vision of its founders and embodying the Adventist spirit of healing and compassion.