It is always a reason to celebrate when Dr. Annette arrives in Gracias with a dental team. But this year’s visit? It felt a little extra special.
But determination has a way of telling its own story. Through months of recovery, hard work, and what Brandy described as her “big heart and a fire to serve others,” Dr. Annette did exactly what she said she would do.
She came back.
Though she once thought she might serve as a full-time missionary, that path never quite unfolded the way she expected. Instead, she discovered a calling that has proven just as impactful — serving through short-term missions. For more than 27 years, she has faithfully used her skills to care for others, one trip at a time.
“She has been a big blessing for our ministry and for my country,” Brandy said.
This year, Dr. Annette returned with another doctor and a team of dental students — and something else became clear. Her impact doesn’t stop with the patients she treats. It’s shaping the next generation of providers as well.
Many of the students on this year’s team had served before, and their growth was evident.
“It’s great to see the students growing as people and as believers,” Brandy shared. “While they were teaching kids how to use a toothbrush, they were also sharing about Jesus. They were taking every opportunity to spread the Gospel while they worked.”
Their development was visible in practical ways, too. In previous years, students might have primarily assisted behind the scenes, cleaning instruments and observing procedures. Now, they are stepping forward with confidence — engaging directly with patients, contributing to care, and even offering input to the doctors.
The learning is happening on every level.
And it’s happening under some intense conditions.
The team worked long hours in a heat index that reached a staggering 113 degrees. Even Brandy, who is well accustomed to the climate, admitted, “The heat was horrible — and I live here!” But the team pressed on with positive attitudes, serving faithfully without complaint.
“It was a great team,” he added.
Throughout the week, they worked out of local churches, providing cleanings, fillings, and extractions when needed. They also took time to teach proper dental hygiene to the children — equipping them with knowledge that will serve them long after the team has gone home.
Each day, they saw an average of 50 to 60 patients, in addition to children in the program who received cleanings and fluoride treatments. It was a full schedule, a demanding environment, and a powerful reminder of what can happen when skill and compassion come together.
But perhaps the most meaningful part of the week wasn’t just the dental care — it was the connection.
“Thank you to everyone who prays for the ministry,” Brandy said. “We were able to spend a week with a team not just cleaning teeth, but sharing the Gospel along with meals and snacks. It was very touching to see.”From a hospital bed to a bustling clinic in Honduras, Dr. Annette’s journey this past year is a testament to perseverance, calling, and faith.
And if this visit is any indication, she’s not slowing down anytime soon.




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