This is a testament that our neighbors around the world should be treated like our own. Because of our contributions, patients from Alajuelita, Costa Rica know that our country has far more to offer than just pharmaceuticals, guns and arrogance.








This is also a testament that Costa Rica is not just about social inequities and health disparities. Amidst all of that reality, I found myself in awe at the richness in culture, the diversity in all forms, and the warmth of its people.

Lost

It took me quite a while to find the representative at the airport. I freaked out after what seemed like forever. Random people holding placards with random names on it went up to me asking if I am Alvarro, George, or Casey. No. No. uhm No, ahaha.

Several others offered me a taxi. I was tempted to. I mean, I had the address of my homestay family. But I reckoned it was probably not the best thing to do. Fankly, I had no idea what to do.

Suddenly, I saw two ladies wearing "Villanova" procaliming shirts who looked liked they've grown tired of waiting for someone, just like me.
BINGO. "Are you guys with.....?" I asked.

Villanova ladies: "Oh! Yes. Uhmmm are you the guy from Michigan?"

Thank god. At least I had someone else to share my misery with.