William “BILL” Ahrens, M.D.

Co-Founder and Executive Director

Prior to co-founding MHI, Dr. Ahrens was the former head of Emergency Pediatrics at the University of Illinois Medical Center in Chicago. He started volunteer medical mission in Guatemala’s western highlands since 1999.  After witnessing the region’s dire medical needs first hand, he moved to Guatemala in 2011 and made San Marcos his home.

Dr. Ahrens gradually established the medical programs supported by  MHI, as they are structured now.  He oversees the operations of the programs and also delivers pediatric medical care at various clinics thought the “Altiplano”.

REhabilitation team

Lead by Elizabeth Barrios Director of Physical Therapy

Elizabeth is native from San Marcos, She has a Masters degree in special education.  She joined MHI  in 2013 and developed the physical therapy program for children with disabilities.  Elizabeth has trained four other native women from San Marcos in physical therapy, and together they deliver services in San Miguel Ixtahuacan, San Jose, and Tacana.  Elizabeth coordinates efforts to attend the surgical needs of many of the children with disabilities.

Nutrition team

Lead by Mario Diaz de Paz

Mario was born in San Marcos and is a native Mam speaker,  He is trained as  a Registered Nurse.  He has worked for more than a decade in public health services in the altiplano.  

He attends the nutritional needs of children and coordinates the delivery of nutitional supplements throughout the region. Other member of the team include : Anibal, Jose, Adolfo, Mario, Lili and Albita.