The Universal Language of a Smile: A Reflection by Alexandra Pritchard, BS '24

Written by Alexandra Pritchard, BS '24
Edited by Stephanie Gonzalez

In March 2026, I had the privilege of participating in a volunteer medical mission trip to Laos with the Cleft Repair Team of Operation International. Operation International is a secular, non-political, humanitarian organization founded in 1996 by Drs. Medhat Allam and Ravi Kothuru, and CRNA Robert Mineo. Laos is a beautiful country rich in culture and community, where life moves at a slower pace with family playing a central role in care. Many patients arrived at our clinic with parents, siblings, or extended relatives, often traveling long distances for the chance at life-changing surgery. I served as a nurse in the operating room, first in a circulating role, later progressing to scrubbing in on cases. With a background solely in adult intensive care, this experience placed me in an entirely new clinical and cultural environment, one that challenged me to grow in unexpected and meaningful ways.

Something that stood out to me was the resilience of the patients and their families. Many had waited years and traveled great distances for the chance to receive care. Despite language barriers, their hope and trust in our medical team was clear in every interaction. I recall one young child who clung tightly to her mother in the preoperative area. Her mother met my eyes, nodded gently, and placed her in my arms without hesitation. That simple exchange, quiet but powerful, captured the depth of trust they placed in the team. This experience reinforced for me that nursing extends far beyond technical skill – it is rooted in compassion, adaptability, and human connection.

Professionally, the mission pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had to rapidly learn new workflows, assist in specialized procedures, and collaborate closely with a surgical interdisciplinary team. Practicing in a resource-limited setting called for creativity, flexibility, and strong communication. We had to quickly pack up our cleft lip and palate repair kits to be timely re-sterilized for the upcoming cases. In one instance, we lacked a functional dingman retractor, a tool used to retract the tongue and cheeks, requiring the team to work creatively and rely on verbal cues. Even small adjustments, such as modifying how we prepared supplies or coordinated during procedures, required heightened teamwork. These challenges ultimately strengthened my confidence as a nurse and deepened my appreciation for collaboration in unfamiliar environments. 

Personally, this experience reaffirmed my purpose in nursing. Witnessing the immediate impact, both physically and emotionally, was incredibly moving. I recall seeing a young boy after surgery and watching his father’s reaction – an awestruck ear-to-ear grin as he looked at his son, who would soon be able to match that smile with one of his own. There was a moment of quiet recognition, hugs, and tears. That transformation, both in appearance and confidence, was something I will never forget. It was a powerful reminder of the profound difference compassionate care can make. 

As I return to my practice in the states, I carry these lessons with me. I approach my patients with an increased sense of gratitude, empathy, and cultural awareness. This experience strengthened my commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care and to continue seeking opportunities to serve both locally and globally. This mission has shaped me both as a nurse and a person, and I will carry this with me throughout my entire nursing career.