One of the most disturbing elements of today’s ‘short-term medical missions’ phenomena is how individuals boast over the number of different countries where they have served. In truth, the learning curve is steep for each new healthcare facility. Commitment and consistency are necessary for one to learn the ropes and actually make a significant contribution. Consider Doug Parkin. Now 68, Doug has made Ghana’s Baptist Medical Center his ‘home away from home.’ He’s served here 10 times over the last 12 years, making permanent friends among the staff, learning elements of the local language, and developing illness management protocols that are used by dozens of other physicians on site. Yours’ is an exemplary life, Doug!