In July 2024, Cookeville Eye Specialists’ Dr. Stewart Galloway and Dr. Michael Jones participated in a mission trip to Comayagua, Honduras, organized by ACE Global. Leading a dedicated team of 27 staff and volunteers from both the U.S. and Honduras, Dr. Galloway oversaw a highly efficient effort that resulted in over 50 successful cataract surgeries for some of the region’s most impoverished residents.
The team included a diverse mix of professionals—ophthalmologists, optometrists, surgical technicians, and nurses—along with enthusiastic volunteers and students. This collaborative spirit enabled them to deliver vital eye care services effectively. Integral to the mission was training two ACE Global Fellows, Dr. Gustavo Coronel and Dr. Juan Torrez, who played crucial roles in patient care and learned new surgical techniques from Drs. Galloway and Jones.
Beyond immediate medical aid, this mission aligned with ACE Global’s larger goal of establishing sustainable eye care solutions in Honduras by training local surgeons to provide state of the art care to the underserved. In addition, the organization works to provide training for support staff including scrub techs, sterile processing, and ophthalmic technicians. This approach empowers communities by developing self-sufficient eye care centers in underserved areas, reinforcing their mission of lasting impact.
The dedication of the entire team, including local partners and volunteers, exemplifies the collaborative effort required to make significant strides in global health. This trip not only changed the lives of the patients who received surgeries but also contributed to the ongoing development of eye care in Honduras.
The mission trip emphasizes the commitment of Cookeville Eye Specialists to improving patient care and community outreach. Dr. Stewart Galloway and Dr. Michael Jones’ experiences teaching surgical techniques in Honduras and observing others operate not only refined their own surgical skills but also deepened their understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities.
Cookeville Eye Specialists remains dedicated to supporting initiatives like ACE Global, reinforcing our mission to provide comprehensive eye care while contributing to global efforts. Dr. Galloway serves on the board of ACE Global and is chair of the Global Advisory Council for the organization. We are grateful for the opportunity to expand our impact, both locally and internationally, and look forward to applying these learnings in our ongoing patient care.
