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The Timmy Foundation

July 2002. In July 2002 TriMedx sent three associates to Quito, Ecuador, as participants in the Timmy Foundation's medical mission trip.

The Timmy Foundation is an organization that was established in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1997 by Dr. Charles Dietzen, and it is dedicated to helping needy children and adults in developing countries.

During this mission, TriMedx technicians, Todd Poor, Steve Erdosy, and Yasser Badreddine joined volunteer students and medical staff from Indiana University and Indiana University Purdue University of Indianapolis. In total there were 42 volunteers who assisted the staff of the Tierra Nueva organization located in Quito, Ecuador. The Timmy Foundation partnered with Tierra Nueva, an organization that provides no-cost medical educational services to the people of Quito.

Scott Keller, Executive Director of the Timmy Foundation, sent a letter of gratitude to TriMedx President Greg Ranger regarding the help they received. Mr. Keller stated that the technical expertise of Todd, Steve, and Yasser was "treasured by the staff," and they were, "impressed by the value of their work."

The technicians repaired a therapeutic whirlpool that had been leaking for some time by fixing the pump motor. The hospital also needed a transfer pump, however, the vendor wanted $620 for a new one. The technicians found an old pump in the hospital warehouse and had it working in no time. Their expertise was also needed in training the staff and setting up and testing donated equipment such as an ultrasound, oximeters, and electrocautery units. They were even successful at getting a donated truck running.

When asked about their experience, they stated that the best thing about the trip was the people. The universal language of the smile greeted them everywhere they traveled, and they heard "Welcome to Ecuador!" from everyone they met.

Dr. Dietzen was once quoted as saying, "We were not all born to be doctors and nurses, but we were all born to be healers." Steve, Todd, and Yasser - it must be a great feeling.