From left to right: Ryan Smagalski (Lumino), Kane Zhao (Tauranga Dental House), Sue Cole (Coordinator), Hadleigh Reid (Victoria Dental), Nishant Nair (Lumino).
From left to right: Ryan Smagalski (Lumino), Kane Zhao (Tauranga Dental House), Sue Cole (Coordinator), Hadleigh Reid (Victoria Dental), Nishant Nair (Lumino).

Dental volunteers giving more

The “Give More” mantra at Sequal represents a believe that optimal growth, personally and organisationally, is achieved not by taking but by giving. YWAM Ships Aotearoa has been running a free dental clinic which is entirely serviced by volunteers.

None of this would be possible without the registered dentists, assistants and hygienists who have volunteered their skills to make this happen.

One of the volunteers is Dental Surgeon Hadleigh Reid.  Hadleigh tries to volunteer for 1-2 months a year.  Most of the time that involves working in other countries but, with the borders closed, he had the opportunity to help more directly at home.

He has recently returned from a sabbatical volunteering with Mercy Ships and with YWAM Marine Reach and is now volunteering with the YWAM Trinity Koha Dental Clinic.

“I like to have a change of scenery from time to time and use my skills in different contexts.  I find working holidays provide change, variety, opportunities to help and also a bit of an adventure.  I always love coming home and re-appreciate all I have that can easily be taken for granted.”

He is hoping that the clinic will provide some respite, and relief of pain and infection to those who find it difficult to pay for dentistry or access public dental services.

He also hopes it will lift some spirits.

“Most people will require ongoing dental care, but we are able to come in for a short period and relieve acute pain, infection, and sometimes do a little more.  All of the patients we have seen have been really appreciative and it has been very rewarding to help them improve their health” says Hadleigh.

You don’t get a better example of “Give More” than what these guys are doing.  The work of volunteers like Hadleigh is truly inspiring and we want to thank each and every one of them.  Your willingness to give freely of your time and talent is admirable.

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