Health & Fitness
Dr. Pizzi Travels to Guatemala to Aid Locals
The Open Wide Foundation allowed Dr. Pizzi to make his dream of helping those in need internationally, a reality!
Dr. Todd Pizzi of Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury recently returned from a volunteer trip in which he offered his time, expertise, skills, and a generous donation to the people of Peronia, Guatemala. The organization that made this all possible is the Open Wide Foundation.
Dr. Pizzi was made aware of the Open Wide Foundation through his involvement with Spear Education; an innovative dental education company. They serve to aid dentists striving for clinical excellence, while transforming their practice and lives of their patients. Spear Education has allowed Dr. Pizzi to share his expertise regarding TMJ, cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry with other dentists, nationally.
The Open Wide Foundation's mission is to make a significant, measurable and lasting change in the state of oral health in impoverished communities worldwide. The organization has an established clinic in Peronia, Guatemala.
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Embarking on his first international volunteer experience, he spent a week in the town of Peronia, providing basic dental care to the people of the town. Having begun his career on a Navajo Reservation, Dr. Pizzi knows the importance of volunteering to aid the efforts in impoverished countries.
In Peronia, there is a great need for dentistry; over half of the country is living below the national poverty line. Access to quality health care is scarce, leading to rising numbers of deaths from preventable diseases and malnutrition. Children and infants are the most effected.
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Dr. Pizzi spent four days in the clinic and another two exploring the region. He was able to form life-long relationships and create unforgettable memories. His entire donation assisted with the provision of dental supplies and the general upkeep of the clinic where he volunteered.
Dr. Pizzi is elated he had the opportunity to help the people of Peronia, Guatemala. "Ultimately, when you have a skill and have found success, you really should take the opportunity to share it with those who could benefit most," he said the experience was so rewarding and hopes to go back, "I honestly can say I got more out of it than I gave."