Creighton University medical students are hosting the Savor the Flavor event Friday from 6-9 p.m. at the Harper Center Ballroom to raise money for Project CURA.
Project CURA is a student-run organization that sends students and medical supplies across the world to provide native populations with free medical care. Undergrads and faculty are invited to attend the event featuring a silent auction, cocktails and ethnic food from the various nations CURA serves.
Project CURA stands for Creighton Medical United in Relief Assistance. Through Project CURA, students travel all across the world practicing their medical skills while helping those in need of medical care. This year CURA’s trips are to Cambodia, Indonesia and Malaysia, as well as two trips to Ghana, a trip to rural India, urbanized India, Romania, Guatemala and a nearby Indian Reservation.
“It is not uncommon for individuals in these countries to die from very curable diseases, such as pneumonia, and so by providing free medical supplies we hope to save as many lives as possible,” Savor the Flavor co-coordinator and first year medical student Tabitha Weller said.
While a large portion of Project CURA focuses on medically aiding those in need, another aspect is service throughout the communities visited. Through project CURA’s various missions, roughly 5,000 people are medically assisted and close to 10,000 people are served non-medically.
“This is not simply a medical opportunity for us but rather a whole person learning experience,” CURA member and first year medical student Traci-Lynn Hirai said.
Second year medical student Nicholas Whitenack went on a CURA trip to India this past summer and reflected on how his experience not only enhanced his medical career, but also drew him closer to the Jesuit ideals.
“It gave me a tremendous appreciation for serving with my hands and heart, not only my mind,” Whitenack said.
The Savor the Flavor event is the primary fundraiser for Project CURA.
Project CURA’s president, first year medical student Danielle Bell, stated that this event can help the Creighton community become involved with a good cause.
“This event is a great way to make a difference indirectly,” Bell said.
In addition to helping Project CURA make a difference in the world, undergrad students interested in the medical field may come and listen to current medical students share their experiences about medical school. The event will be a fun way to learn about new cultures and try new food, while giving to a good cause.
To attend the Savor the Flavor event, RSVP via email at [email protected] or show up at the door. Cocktail attire is preferred and people are free to come and go as they please. Tickets for adults include two complimentary drink tickets and are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. Student’s tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door.
If unable to attend, donations would also be greatly appreciated. Any doctors interested in participating in a CURA trip may email [email protected] with questions.
Written by: Erin Kurvers