For over 30 years, Hearts In Motion (HIM) has brought medical and humanitarian teams to Central America, providing care and critical support for children, families, and communities.
Among the many volunteers, two stand out: Barbara Engers, a Neonatal ICU nurse from Colorado, and Margaret Moore, a dedicated volunteer from Salt Lake City. Since 2005, they’ve made nearly 30 trips to Guatemala to support HIM’s Helping Mothers and Babies Survive program.
Together, they’ve trained over 1,000 nurses, midwives, and firefighters in lifesaving skills—helping reduce maternal and infant mortality in communities with limited access to medical care.
“Postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal death globally,” said Engers. “With training and the right tools, many of these deaths are preventable.”
Barbara and Margaret’s training sessions have strengthened partnerships with clinics like the one in Gualan and connected deeply with midwives (Comadronas) in rural areas. One standout story is Jovita, a nurse trained in 2017 who used her new skills and an Ambu bag to save a newborn just one week after her training. Today, Jovita is a Nurse Leader and Helping Babies Breathe trainer for others in her region.
“Simple tools like resuscitation bags, suction bulbs, and training dolls make a huge difference,” said Moore. “We’re always looking for donations—just one training doll costs $135, and a birth kit is $44.”
Barbara and Margaret’s dedication shows the power of compassionate, sustained volunteerism. Their work continues to equip local caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to save lives—today and for years to come.
