HMC Update: New Beginnings

Written By Mercedes Pang

First and foremost, we want to honor the incredible legacy of our founders, Bert, Laura, Dennis, and Ana, and the longtime staff and volunteers who have poured their time, energy, and love into this mission since 2013. Because of your dedication, we have grown from each experience, weathered challenges with grace, and continued showing up for the people of the island of Hispaniola.

To carry this legacy forward, there have been some updates to our leadership. With Dennis’ kind encouragement, I, Jessica, have stepped into the role of President of HMC. I am deeply honored to follow in his footsteps. Alongside our committed team—Keyan (Medical Officer), Mercedes (Operations Officer), and Odile (Communications Coordinator)—we are ready to serve with integrity, collaboration, and care.

We are working closely with HMC’s founders to take on more of the logistical lift, allowing our team to focus on what they do best: providing compassionate, high-quality care in the spirit of Dr. Umbert Hart Sr.’s legacy. Bert and Laura are still very involved in an advisory role and will be joining the team in 2026. 

As we plan our next medical trip (Q1 2026) to Hospital Ricardo Limardo in Puerto Plata, we invite you to be a part of it.

Here are a few ways you can support HMC right now:

  • Send us your memories. We’re collecting photos, testimonials, and stories from past trips to build a digital archive that honors where we’ve been and captures the heart of this mission. Email info@hispaniolamedicalcharity.org any materials!

  • Stay updated. Sign up for our newsletter by filling out the form below!

  • Donate supplies. Currently, we are looking for laparoscopic instruments, suture, general OR equipment, and medical supplies. Contact us if you have information.

  • Be a supporter. You can donate to our 2026 Fundraiser here. Our goal is to raise $10,000 to cover essential supplies including OR packs, instruments, medications, and anesthesia supplies.

  • Help the impact grow. You can also set up a personal fundraising page and help us share the mission with your friends and family.

From the beginning, it’s been you—our volunteers, support staff, donors, and behind-the-scenes champions—who have made this work possible. Your time, energy, and generosity have helped us reach hundreds of patients with dignity and compassion, and have expanded our impact far beyond what we could have imagined.


We’re excited to carry this mission forward—with the continued support and wisdom of our founders and board—and, most importantly, with you by our side.


With gratitude,


Jessica Crotts – Chief Executive Officer
Keyan Mobli, MD – Chief Medical Officer
Mercedes Pang – Chief Operating Officer
Odile Polanco – Chief Communications Officer

Mercedes Pang