Rafael C. Praysln Selfless Humanitarian
Family and friends gathered in person and virtually from Managua, Nicaragua to join a Celebration of Life Mass for Rafael. A dedicated husband, father and humanitarian Rafael embodied a life of service, compassion and celebration of sharing and hope.
Rafael and his wife Ninoska are indelible witnesses to the power of serving above self-interest.
In his native Nicaragua, Rafael continued a tradition set by his father to give hope and improved quality of life to his fellow Nicaraguan. Partnering with Sunrise Rotary Rafael along with his late father and Ninoska were our “boots on the ground” as aptly described by John Jones, our Sunrise International Service director.
For over a decade, Rafael’s family’s presence provided access and trust to provide vision and dental services to thousands of Nicaraguan underserved people. Here is a link to more on the surgery center story: https://portal.clubrunner.ca/4124/Stories/sabalos-status
Rafael’s local contacts and credibility afforded optimal accountability for the highly impactful construction of the 2,000 square foot surgical center in Sabalos. This clinic serves 40,000 people in a remote region with OBGYN care, dental and general medical care, including ophthalmic treatment for cataracts and eye related pathology. Rafael’s guidance, energy and cross-cultural fluency gave birth to transformative relationships between Rotarians in the United States and Nicaragua. Most recently he and Ninoska coordinated with Sunrise latest mission to El Salvador in May of this year. Rafael’s tireless drive to build goodwill and better friendships, beneficial to all concerned is the undeniable truth which his legacy leaves for us all to follow. His boots are big ones to fill and his inspiration sufficient to move forward with the confidence you can see on his face.
These photos touch on the many lives enhanced through Rafael's vision and energy.
People walked or rode horse or donkey-back for eye and tooth relief.
volunteers young and old alike learned to relate and adapt.
Meals were often prepared by local families and shared in their home, graciously and deliciously
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Look and learn.
Our hands, hearts and homes continue to grow closer together. Thank you Rafael.
