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In a world where access to healthcare can vary dramatically, the role of global outreach initiatives has never been more critical. In this week’s episode, we’re joined by nurse anesthesia doctoral student Chris Wheelock to discuss the impact of global outreach and how an initiative he was involved in is shaping the future of global health care.
With a staggering shortage of anesthesia providers in sub-Saharan Africa, Chris and his classmates have partnered with Our Hearts Your Hands to launch a scholarship for African nurses pursuing anesthesia education. Through powerful data, personal experience, and heart-driven advocacy, Chris makes the case for shifting from short-term medical missions to investing long-term in local talent.
Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode:
🌍 Only 1 anesthesia provider per 100,000 people in parts of Africa
📚 The cost to train a nurse anesthetist
🧠 Why long-term investment beats short-term missions
💡 How culture, continuity, and context create better outcomes
💸 A new scholarship that connects donors to students and real change
Will you be among the Congress attendees tackling some of today's most urgent challenges in nurse anesthesiology?
Join nurse innovator and Hackathon host Rebecca Love, RN, MSN, FIEL, along with former AANA president and Beyond the Mask podcast host Sharon Pearce, DNP, CRNA, FAANA, FAAN, and 14 expert CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist mentors for an exclusive opportunity to collaborate, compete, and create real-world solutions.
This team-based, high-energy event is free to attend — but space is limited. Only 112 seats are available. Save your seat at the AANA Hackathon.
Catch Sharon Live at the 53rd Annual Refresher Course for Nurse Anesthetists!
Join Sharon this November 14–16, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel in Walt Disney World Village, Florida, for the Frank Moya Continuing Education Program’s annual conference. She’ll be delivering four insightful talks as part of the guest faculty lineup.
Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and recharge—with some Disney magic on the side!
Click here for more details and to register
🎗 Beyond the Mask Podcast is honored to once again sponsor a team for the HALOS Memorial Walk on August 2nd. HALOS is a nonprofit offering hope and healing to families who’ve lost a child, including Sharon when she lost her granddaughter, Emma. This powerful organization is run by parents who truly understand. To join our team or donate, visit the support page. 💛
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"If we really are trying to make a difference, I think that we can start shifting our mindset from short term relief to long term relief."
- Chris Wheelock
