contact with them. I hope these efforts will lead to more interest in our field and identify ways we can help the local and national population. Upon my return to New Jersey, I was able to secure a donation of Stimulan, an antibiotic bead product, for the orthopedic department at the college. They were unable to get these life-saving products due to funding issues. My hope is to continue stimulating interest in this mission so other companies will be equally as generous in helping the people there. How is the mission connected to broader global health issues, considering the importance of addressing podiatric health on a global scale and how podiatric physicians contribute to this effort? One of the main points of my lecture at the college was that diabetes is a global epidemic. In Africa, the biggest issue is testing for diabetes and early intervention. More than half of those with diabetes in Africa don't even know they have it; diabetes is called the " Silent Killer. " The other main issue for the non-diabetic population is access to care and resources. Access to care for the lower extremity is virtually non-existent. With our work there, we are hoping to expand that access. Do you have anything else to share about your ongoing participation in this medical mission? The last thing I'd really like to emphasize is the amazing people I worked with on this mission, both the doctors I traveled with and the many doctors and volunteers who help the cause. They are humble, intelligent people who want a better world for everyone. Leaving them to return home was bittersweet. Once you become involved in a cause like this, you can't help but want to continue the work. You can see how profoundly your efforts are welcomed. Participating in this unbelievable cause was-and is-life-changing. And we can use all the help we can get! Thanks for the opportunity to share this work. It's appreciated more than you can know. 20 apmanews MARCH/APRIL 2024