HEARTS, HANDS, AND HEALING IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

When our Mercy Dental Missions team boarded the plane for the Dominican Republic, we knew we were going to serve people in need. What we didn’t know was how deeply this trip would change our hearts.

Over the course of one week, our team of eleven cared for 112 patients and provided more than $50,000 worth of FREE dentistry. But the numbers only tell part of the story. Behind every tooth we filled or extracted was a person, often a child, who had been living with pain far longer than anyone should have to endure. We held their hands, wiped their tears, and prayed that through our care, they would see not just us, but the love of Christ reaching out to them.

We were humbled to partner with Kids Alive, an incredible mission that serves hundreds of children in Constanza every single day. Through their faithful work, children receive three nourishing meals, an education, school supplies, sports programs, and most importantly, the Word of God.

Fred and Cassandra O’Brien have led this ministry tirelessly for nineteen years. Their love for the people of Constanza is visible everywhere you go, from the classrooms and orphanage walls to the grocery stores, coffee shops, and local restaurants. They are extraordinary hosts and shining examples of what it looks like to live as true followers of Christ. Their hearts for service have inspired us deeply.

Regardless of your religious background, it was impossible not to see God at work each day. To witness such gratitude in the midst of such need changes a person. It reminds us that while many of us in the United States say we rely on God, we often rely on our own resources instead. In Constanza, these children and families depend on Jesus for everything, and through missions like Kids Alive and Mercy Dental Missions, He provides.

By the end of the week, we were physically exhausted. Yet, even as we unpacked our bags back home, many of us found ourselves saying, we’re ready to go back, texting little messages from trip experiences, or merely just reminiscing together about the coffee! 

Visiting a place where dental care is almost nonexistent reminded us why our work here in Madison matters so much. Prevention is everything, and the more access we can provide to our neighbors, the fewer people will have to suffer in silence.

Our time in Constanza reignited our passion for our mission here and abroad: to bring hope, health, and healing wherever it is needed most. Because every restored smile is a glimpse of God’s love made visible.

JOIN US

We invite you to be part of this mission. Whether you pray, give, or go, your involvement helps us continue to reach those who are hurting—both here at home and around the world. Together, we can continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus, one smile at a time.