Last week, at the AMOS campus in Nejapa, patients living with chronic illnesses gathered for the relaunch of the Friends with Chronic Illness Wellness Club, a monthly space designed to complement the free care they already receive at the Samaritan Clinic.
But this was not just another health talk. It was a morning built around a bigger idea: helping patients not only manage disease, but strengthen the daily habits, confidence, and support systems that make long-term wellbeing possible.
One of the participants was 94-year-old Santos Ramón Trejos, who arrived at the Samaritan Clinic on his own in a moto taxi.
“We even cooked,” he said with a smile, describing the variety of activities that made the gathering feel complete.
“I feel proud.”
The first was nutrition education, including a workshop with simple recipes based on foods that are common in the area, such as eggs, carrots, spinach, and avocado. These ingredients are accessible to many families and also offer strong nutritional value, making the lessons easier to apply at home.
There was also a space called Ask Your Doctor, where patients could raise questions and concerns related to their chronic conditions. For many people living with high blood pressure, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses, having the opportunity to ask questions openly can be just as important as receiving treatment.
A third component focused on moderate physical activity, adapted to each participant’s abilities. With the support of a Zumba instructor, patients practiced movements aimed at improving mobility and strengthening their ability to do everyday activities, such as sitting down and standing up from a chair. These may seem like small actions, but they can make a significant difference in quality of life and independence.
The final station centered on spirituality and mental health, offering tools to help participants regulate themselves during moments of stress. This part of the program recognizes something AMOS sees often: living with a chronic illness is not only physical. Emotional and spiritual wellbeing also shape how people cope, persist, and care for themselves over time.
According to AMOS Programs Coordinator Flavia, the goal is to provide patients with more than medical follow-up. It is to equip them with practical tools they can use in their everyday lives.
That holistic approach was also reflected in the response from Sorayda Espinoza, a 60-year-old participant living with high blood pressure.
“I loved everything, the whole program. The food, the dancing…” she said. “I hope the next edition is just as beautiful. I feel special.”
That feeling matters.
Finally, Don Santos offers us some advice on how to reach his age with the wisdom of someone who has taken care of himself all his life: “watch what you eat.” and then he added:
“I thank Christ for the knowledge He gave me to care for myself, even in the way I treat my friends.”
I spent a week at the Amos center in Managua. A wonderful experience . My 2 daughters were with me, both nurses and were a ble to contribute in several ways. Thank you for all your good work.