It's the rainy season in Vietnam. The dreary weather doesn't get a few medical professionals in Da Nang down. They know OBI's volunteer medical team will soon be performing free eye, ears-nose-throat, and neurosurgery as well as providing general medical, optical, and dental services to thousands of people in need.

Imagine not being able to get a lifesaving surgery or not being able to help your malnourished child because all you could afford was basic shelter and food. Local Vietnamese English language newspapers report the government hopes to improve child nutrition, and goes on to say that iron deficiency is a major problem. It is also common for hospital patients to have to bring their own medical supplies and medicine. This is difficult because according to the World Factbook 2000, 37% of the Vietnamese population live below the poverty line.

In order to alleviate some pressure, OBI has sent vitamins, medicines, and surgical supplies to Vietnam. Any items not used or distributed during the 2-week mission, will be left with Vietnamese medical professionals.

Three Vietnam veterans are a part of the OBI team, including mission leader Dwight Lohrenz. This is volunteer translator Jack Ernest's 28th trip back. "When Dwight and I went to Vietnam the first time during the war, we took M-16s, but now we are returning with healing hands," he shares.

After going with OBI to El Salvador and the Philippines, Peter Banus is now bringing his wife Kay for the first time. As a healthcare business administrator, Peter will assist Vietnamese doctors in improving the admitting and discharge process. "I want to give something back to the Vietnamese that we were not able to do during the 'Vietnam conflict' -- freedom from disease and pain," comments the veteran! Kay will assist in medical education and care for pediatric patients.

You can join in on the excitement in Vietnam! Every week come back and read about the many lives touched every day!

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Be a part of OBI's ongoing medical relief efforts by making an online contribution to help those suffering from extreme poverty and sickness.

 

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