Giving a Hand – and Hope: Steve Merrill

Steve Merrill has a deeply personal mission of international proportions.

The director of dental services at Bay Correctional Facility spends several weeks a year globetrotting for a worthy cause with Medical Wings International, an organization that provides acute medical, dental and eye care in developing nations around the globe.

In August, Merrill spent five days in Honduras, where he served on a 16-member team comprised of medical professionals from across the country providing care and health education to more than 1,100 people.

“The people lined up for miles to get very basic care,” says Merrill, who joined CCA in 1996. “The days were long, but the experiences were very rewarding.”

Merrill and his team taught CPR and dental hygiene to clinic visitors and treated many illnesses “that have largely been eradicated in America, like malnutrition and scabies.”

“In Honduras, the average annual income is $1,250,” Merrill explains. “Most people spend only on basic provisions, like food. So receiving the quality of care our team provided at no cost makes a priceless impact in their lives.”

Merrill has previously traveled to Nicaragua, India and Peru in his work with Medical Wings International and went to Russia for five days in September.

“Each trip makes me realize how good I – and we, as Americans – have it and how much need is out there,” he says. “More than anything, this trip has reinforced how blessed I am.”