Nelson's Story: Translating Hope & Healing on the Guatemala Medical Mission Trip

It was such a joy to work with the medical missions team from Real Impact Missions, and I’m grateful for the chance to share my experience from this year’s trip.

Translator Nelson & Nurse Tracy with Children Who Visited the Medical Clinic -- RIM Guatemala 2025

This year, I had the honor of interpreting for Dr. Steven K and Nurse Tracy G. Not only did I learn so much about medicine, but I also saw with my own eyes how deeply people in my community need both medical care and God’s love. I witnessed the overwhelming gratitude of my Guatemalan neighbors as they received treatment from the RIM team.

Interpreting someone’s story is always a privilege, but it’s even more meaningful when those stories come from people I’ve grown up alongside. On our final day, we gathered together and had the chance to tell the RIM team how much we admire them. They showed us that helping others is not just about meeting material needs—it’s about offering encouragement, hope, and practical knowledge that can improve lives. Sometimes, it’s as simple as teaching about healthy eating or regular exercise.

One moment that made this year especially meaningful was when the doctors visited a school I attended years ago. Some of my former teachers, still faithfully serving there, recognized me and celebrated how far I’ve come. I loved seeing local children—many of them my neighbors—receiving medicine and vitamins. My neighbors had never heard me speak English before, so when they saw me interpreting for the doctors, they were fascinated. That’s not something common in our community, and I could see their curiosity spark. It stirred something in me, too.

Real Impact Missions -- Medical Mission Trip to Guatemala Team -- July 2025

I realized that the English language has opened many doors for me, and I want my community to have the same opportunities. Just as we look up to the RIM and CRU teams, I believe those around us may look up to us as individuals. That’s why I’ve decided to give back in a way I can—by teaching English to my neighbors at church. I’ve already started working on lesson plans, trusting that God can use even this small gift to plant seeds for the future.

Thank you for letting me be part of this life-changing work.

Article written by Translator Nelson, Guatemala Medical Mission Trip