Skin grafts for burn injuries. Removing a facial tumor known as a parotid mass. Repairing cleft lips for children. Repairing hernias, an organ protrusion through the muscle wall. These are just some examples of the variety of cases a team of Operation International volunteers can encounter on a single medical mission trip.

For Team Chicago, the Chicago-based chapter founded in 2021, these and more cases were successfully completed during their 2026 trip to Tanzania. The team completed dozens of general, craniofacial, and ENT procedures during just four surgery days in the country.

“The mission trip was successful,” said team leader Dr. Edie Chan. “We did 60 operations, many of which were life-changing [for patients].”

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Patient Spotlights

Among the cases that stood out, Dr. Chan said, were a man who came to the team with a large parotid tumor, which is an abnormal growth in the parotid gland (salivary gland near the ear). The team was able to successfully remove the mass and the man was “incredibly happy” with the outcome.

Another patient the team cared for was a woman who told volunteers she suffered from severe pain for years. Team Chicago discovered that her gallbladder was completely full of stones—hardened deposits of bile that form in the gallbladder. With a gallbladder surgery, the team was able to finally offer her relief.

The team also saw many young patients, including several children who suffered from severe chronic tonsillitis that impacted their ability to sleep and breathe. Team Chicago performed tonsilectomies for the children.

“We had many grateful parents,” Dr. Chan said.

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‍Expanding Impact

As with every Operation International mission, Team Chicago’s work extended beyond the operating room.

The team helped ensure their impact would sustain after they left by offering education to local hospital staff. Specifically, the team’s gynecologist spent time educating staff and patients on the management of infertility and other gynecological issues.

At the end of their trip, the team visited a local orphanage in the community. They donated school supplies–including colored pencils, paper notebooks, and 40 soccer balls–as well as livestock for the school. The donation included three goats, four adult hens for eggs, and 20 young chickens.

Thank You!

Team Chicago’s trip would not have been possible without the many generous supporters who contributed to their mission this year. To learn more about the team or how you can support their work, please click here.

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