SANTA ANA, Honduras –
Nine members of Joint Task Force-Bravo's medical element partnered with the Honduran Ministry of Health and several non-government organizations to treat hundreds of patients today at a health fair here March 24.
Thousands attended the health fair -- some seeking medical treatment and others to see President Manuel Zelaya of Honduras, and Honduras' first lady, Mrs. Xiomara Zelaya, who were in attendance.
At the request of the Honduran government, the JTF-Bravo members brought expertise, equipment, medicine, and medical supplies to the effort to treat patients with limited access to routine medical care.
Some patients went to great lengths to be there.
Maria Reyes, a young mother, carried her 2-month-old son for more than two hours from her home near Sacate Blanco to receive care.
"I heard about (the health fair) when some school kids walked by, talking about it," Ms. Reyes said. "I've been feeling ill, and also wanted to get my baby a check-up, so I came for the medical assistance here."
The presence and assistance of JTF-Bravo's medical professionals did not go unnoticed. President Zelaya publicly recognized the support during his remarks to the assembled crowd.
"Thank you very much to our friends from Joint Task Force-Bravo for their contribution of more than $10,000 worth of medication," the president said to thunderous applause.