AYUDA 2024 Campo Amigo Program

Hi everyone,

Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the last few years! It has been a wild journey as I go through college and continue with the volunteer programs I love. One of the programs that has been close to my heart is the AYUDA program working with doctors, other volunteers, youth, and families in the Dominican Republic to help educate and support people with diabetes. The time that I've spent over the past three years working in the Dominican Republic, meeting kids and their families, and seeing the smiles on these kids as we try to help them learn and cope with a disease that has shaken their lives, has been so rewarding and an experience that I will always remember. My time with AYUDA has also created a deep bond with my fellow volunteers as we work closely to develop programs and activities for the kids during the summer. As a mentor for new volunteers, it was really fun to train them, learn from them, and see their excitement as they meet and interact with the kids. On top of that, my Spanish has vastly improved! My own experience with Type 1 Diabetes and my experience with AYUDA has reaffirmed my goal to pursue a career in medicine. This year, I took the MCAT, and will be starting my senior year at UCLA. Yes, it will be a busy year ahead as I continue to do my research, graduate, and gain clinical experience. But I will always have time for AYUDA. 

In my five years with AYUDA and three summers in the Dominican Republic, I have learned so much about treating type 1 diabetes, working with children, and how to run a program based around helping others. I have made lifelong friendships and connections without which, I would not be the same person I am today. This program makes my summer interesting, engaging, meaningful, and generally just fun. It is my last year fundraising for this wonderful program so I ask for your support one final time. This program relies on its volunteers to carry out their work with the local communities. Please consider supporting our effort and the children with diabetes by making a donation!

And for those simply interested in my experiences and journey, here are some pictures!

-Wylie Dahlgren