Dr. Belen Tan, MD | Board Member | Diocese of St Augustine

Dr. Belen Tan joined the board of directors in 2019, after serving faithfully as a medical volunteer since 2017. In addition to her service on Special Needs Pilgrimages, she was instrumental in bringing Lourdes Virtual Pilgrimage Experience to the Central Philippines in 2019. A 1983 graduate of the Cebu Institute of Medicine, Dr. Tan immigrated to the U.S. in 1988, where she trained in Pediatrics and then specialized in adult and pediatric Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Dr. Tan resides in Florida, where she is a pro-life supporter and devoted parishioner of St. Madeleine, attending daily Mass and Eucharistic Adoration regularly.

Most satisfying aspect of serving with Lourdes Volunteers:

To see, learn and experience the faith of so many people from all walks of life! To witness the unconditional love and service of Lourdes Volunteers to others!

My role on pilgrimage:

I am happy to do anything I can to serve others on pilgrimage! As a physician, I work with special need pilgrims, their medical providers, other medical and non-medical volunteers and leaders to prepare supportive care plans. With the help of Our Heavenly Father and His Immaculate Mother, these supportive care plans allow us to anticipate and meet pilgrims’ needs during pilgrimage to Lourdes.

First joined Lourdes Volunteers:

After attending the Lourdes Volunteers’ Medical Meeting in early 2017, I joined my first pilgrimage to Lourdes that June.

Favorite moments of pilgrimage:

Being in the Grotto and touching the Rocks where Our Immaculate Mother appeared to St. Bernadette. Going on the Rosary procession, Eucharistic procession and many others.

Most people might not know:

I like to go swimming and snorkeling at the beach or in deep water!

Community involvement:

I volunteer for our local pro-life pregnancy clinic, and I participate in many parish ministries: Respect Life Ministry, Eucharistic Adoration and healing Holy hour. Of course, I also provide Lourdes Water when needed!

Sources of inspiration:

My earthly mother (my father died when I was in my teens) and Our Heavenly Immaculate Mother.

Book recommendations:

The Fulfillment of All Desire by Ralph Martin.

Favorite quote:

“If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, nothing is impossible.”