What is SAIL doing in
Other Countries
SAIL is committed to serving all parts of Central America. By raising money in the United States, they are able to make an impact in many different countries in very unique ways and meet specific needs.
Belize
One of the earliest initiatives supported by the Heineman Foundation of Charlotte, NC, was to enhance cardiac care in Belize City, Belize. Although SAIL had not yet been established, the foundation’s successful fundraising efforts, which amassed $17,000, made a significant impact. A 57-year-old woman underwent a life-saving mitral valve repair surgery, performed by heart surgeons from Charlotte who also provided hands-on training to Belizean cardiac surgeons. Remarkably, non-physicians, including Thomas, were invited to observe the entire four-hour procedure, standing between the surgeons and anesthesiologists. The family’s gratitude for this life-changing surgery was overwhelming and heartfelt.
Guatemala
The local hospital in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala faced a critical challenge with its sole service vehicle, an aging 1990 Land Cruiser. This vehicle was not only used for transporting supplies and equipment but also served as the area’s ambulance. Unfortunately, frequent breakdowns plagued the Land Cruiser, endangering the lives of those it was meant to help.
In response to this dire need, a generous donation of a cargo van sparked a vital initiative to convert it into a fully-equipped ambulance. This 5-liter diesel vehicle, known for its durability, was an ideal candidate for the transformation.
The transformed ambulance marked a significant improvement for the community. The local population embraced it, adding their unique touch and celebrating its arrival in the local newspaper.
Nicaragua
Imagine a hospital serving 120,000 residents without a single working toilet or shower. Patients, including those injured from falls or women in labor, must walk 50 yards to a lone outhouse. Day and night, they navigate through dangers like snakes, lizards, mosquitoes carrying Dengue fever, scorpions, and other jungle creatures.
Terrified patients leave toilet paper around exit doors, too scared to make the trek.
Thanks to the funding provided by SAIL, in partnership with a dedicated husband and wife team from Monroe, NC, this hospital now boasts twelve toilets and six showers. The transformation was so impactful that it drew local elected officials and a crowd of 150 people to celebrate the new facilities!