"I'm aware of the huge need for simple and cost-effective medical care in other parts of the world."

Donor Spotlight: Riel

How did you first hear about Watsi?

I first heard about Watsi on Facebook through a great college friend of mine.

2. What made you donate on Watsi versus another donation platform/charity?

It’s always nice to put a face to global health disparities and need. The ability to make donations on a customizable basis is also convenient. I like to give twice a month, but I can always tailor my donation to my financial constraints at that particular time.

3. What was your favorite thing about donating to a patient on Watsi?

I know the money is going directly to a procedure/prescription/work-up that will positively impact these individual’s lives and hopefully their ability to act within their communities.

4. Do you have a reason to care especially about health issues?

Having just finished medical school (I’m a surgery intern at UVA) and after spending some time abroad in medical environments, I’m aware of the huge need for simple and cost-effective medical care in other parts of the world. Being a surgical resident leaves me with little time to act on a global stage at the moment, so this is the next best thing.

5. Where do you live?

Charlottesville, Virginia

6. What do you do for work?

General surgery resident at the University of Virginia.

7. Hobbies?

Travel abroad, street food abroad, fly-fishing, skiing, being lazy (time permitting)

8. What inspires you?

I’m constantly inspired by others that somehow find a way to make enormous impacts on the lives of others. The charisma, planning, forethought, energy, etc are astounding. This is just a small way for me to make some positive contribution to global health, but on a much, much smaller scale.