Bringing Joy and Healing: How One Patient Became “Santa Claus” for Children in the Dominican Republic

For years, Dr. Joseph Babiarz has traveled as a volunteer with One World Surgery, providing medical care to children and families who would otherwise go without access to treatment. On each trip, he noticed the joy a small gesture could bring—like handing a child a stuffed animal after surgery or during recovery. For many families living in the Dominican Republic, where the average daily income is just a few dollars, toys are a luxury few can afford.

This realization inspired a special partnership. While caring for one of his patients, Julia, in his nursing home, Dr. Babiarz was struck by the beautiful painted wooden animals displayed in her room. Julia, who lives with severe scoliosis and other serious medical conditions, creates these works of art despite facing daily health challenges.

“I asked Julia if I could bring some of her wooden animals on my medical mission trip,” Dr. Babiarz recalls. “Of course, she said yes.”

Since then, Julia has joyfully made toys each year, eagerly asking Dr. Babiarz, “When are you going on your mission trip? I can make more toys!” Her generosity and creativity have touched countless children who receive her handmade animals during their medical care.

Dr. Babiarz lovingly calls her the “Santa Claus of the Dominican Republic,” a reminder that healing comes not only through surgery and medicine but also through compassion, creativity, and human connection.

Call to Action:

Volunteers like Dr. Babiarz—and supporters like Julia—help One World Surgery bring health, hope, and healing to communities in need. To learn more about how you can join a medical mission and make an impact, contact medicalmissions@oneworldsurgery.org.

 

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