Dear Friends,

I had the opportunity to participate in Bridge of Life (BOL)'s medical mission to Jordan this past April where, in partnership with the Syrian American Medical Society, our volunteer team of eight DaVita Kidney Care teammates screened over 1,000 displaced Syrian refugees for chronic diseases, including hypertension, diabetes and kidney disease.

I've participated in previous BOL missions, but for me, this one was the most meaningful. Many of the refugees abruptly fled their homes and are separated from their loved ones. Despite the safety they found in Jordan, they struggle to make ends meet every day and to provide for their families. This mission provided men, women and children with basic healthcare services that they no longer have access to.

You hear about Syria on the news, but meeting the refugees and hearing their stories in person was a whole other experience. Our team witnessed their grief and sorrow but also their incredible resilience and continual hope.

Please take a m oment to read more about my personal experience from this mission on BOL's blog . I encourage you to keep listening to the refugees' stories, whether it be in the news or on social media, and to get involved in any way you can. Even the smallest of gestures can make a big impact!

Thank you for Caring for Our World,

Dee Bradley

RN & Group Facility Administrator, DaVita Kidney Care &  BOL Volunteer