At the 2014 Exploring Medical Missions Conference next week it’s my honor to present the 2014 International Medicine Award. Abigail Rattin, MD, MPH, is Medical Coordinator of Action International Ministries. A family physician with public health training at University of Massachusetts Amherst, since 2010 Dr. Rattin as been living and serving in the nation of Uganda, eastern Africa. From her particular experience as mother of a special needs child, she provides direct clinical care, consulting and advocacy for vulnerable children and those children with special needs. In this context she consistently brings to light not only the gravity of such disabilities in Africa, but also effective and culturally appropriate means of preventing and optimizing life and functionality for these individuals.