In our second episode of Trinbago Diaspora Vignettes, we talk about the remarkable journey of Dr. Reynold Agard, a Trinidad-born internist whose mission-driven career has touched lives across four continents. As president of HANDS International, Dr. Agard leads a diverse team of volunteer medical professionals who bring critical care and compassion to underserved communities around the globe.
A Calling Beyond the Clinic
From his roots at Penn State College of Medicine and his current practice at the University of Delaware, Dr. Agard has never let borders define the reach of his purpose. His commitment to care is as global as it is personal. Whether mentoring aspiring doctors from India or leading field hospitals in post-disaster zones, his philosophy remains clear: “A patient doesn’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
This ethos fuels his humanitarian outreach, most notably with HANDS International, an organization born out of solidarity after a devastating hurricane in the eastern Caribbean 17 years ago.
When Disaster Strikes, They Answer
Over the years, the organization has mobilized for crises in Haiti, Papua New Guinea, Kenya, and India. One of their most compelling moments came after Haiti’s 2010 earthquake. Dr. Agard’s team was the first medical crew to reach the city of Jacmel—carrying supplies by Navy ship after navigating mountainous terrain with help from the Dominican government. There, they helped rescue and stabilize a critically ill 26-day-old baby who was later airlifted to safety aboard a U.S. hospital ship.
The baby’s survival story made international headlines and was later featured on CNN as a symbol of resilience and hope.
Free Medical Care Initiative – July 21–24, 2025
Now, HANDS International is preparing for one of its largest undertakings: a four-day medical mission in Trinidad and Tobago, with follow-up eye surgeries in August. Highlights of the mission include:
- Over 100 volunteer professionals, including surgeons, dentists, lawyers, and financial advisors
- Cataract surgeries for more than 2,000 patients
- Comprehensive health services, including hernia repairs, orthopedic treatments, thyroid care, and fibroid surgeries
- Community wellness support like food, hygiene kits, haircuts, and clothing donations
In an impressive show of cross-border solidarity, many professionals are self-funding their travel and time, with no administrative overhead deducted from donations.
Every Dollar, Every Heartbeat Counts
The mission’s strength lies not just in skill but in shared sacrifice. Volunteers often give up weeks of income and comfort to serve others. Local logistics, meals, and resources are powered by **donations**—with 100% of contributions funneled directly into mission efforts. For those interested in supporting, contributions can be made through HANDS International’s official site: www.hands-international.org
As Dr. Agard says, “The more we get, the more we give.”
Homecoming 2025 – A Celebration of Diaspora Impact
This episode was part of TDON’s broader lead-up to Homecoming 2025—an October celebration that honors diaspora champions for their contributions to philanthropy, culture, and entrepreneurship. With thousands of citizens already registered for care, and a network of supporters rallying behind the effort, this mission stands as a testament to what’s possible when service meets soul.
Looking Ahead
The July mission doubles as a lead-up to TDON’s Homecoming 2025 (October 18–26), which will honor diaspora champions in philanthropy, culture, and entrepreneurship. If Dr. Agard’s story proves anything, it’s that service knows no borders—and that when expertise meets empathy, islands of need can become continents of care.
For more information—or to volunteer or donate—visit HANDS International’s website or continue to follow TDON for ongoing coverage of the mission.
View our Previous TDON Vignette episode by clicking here: