Operating Outside the OR

Yesterday was another busy day for me here in Port-au-Prince but not in the OR for a change. Started early at 7 AM with lectures to the public medical school orthopedic residents. These students are eager to learn and their enthusiasm fed my energy.

Broken Earth is creating a new partnership here with the Haitian State University and the General Hospital.  The team will be regular teaching via the telemedicine system to local students and medical professionals. This is so exciting and is truly part of Broken Earth’s long-term goals in Haiti. What’s that saying about teaching someone to fish?!? This sustainable education lecture circuit will be a huge benefit.  The residents were engaged and appreciative of Dr. Squire and Stratton’s lectures.  

Back at the hospital, physiotherapist Dan Martyn was up early helping our latest femur fracture to walk and as a result was discharged today. Another little win.

Had a full schedule of meetings in the afternoon. First off with the Minister of Health and the Director of Health to ensure we are meeting their requests and needs. Then it was off to a meeting with the contractor for the new building.  I know this is important stuff, exciting too, but to tell you the truth I’d much rather be in the OR. You’re literally hands-on with a dedicated team and making a difference.

It’s tactile. It’s immediate.

You see the results, good or bad, right away.

Gotta be more patient and understand the bigger picture.

Back home, all the little trick-r-treaters and getting ready to head out. Missin’ that for sure. Well, on to the next meeting… Happy Halloween all!

-Andrew

4 Responses to “Operating Outside the OR”

October 31 at 7:16 pm, Maureen said:

Your efforts are needed in all capacities. Happy Halloween to all .

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October 31 at 7:37 pm, Carol McDonald said:

NL knows you are all there to help whether that be teaching, building or hands-on and you are commended for that. Excellent work. The people of Haiti know as well and I’m sure very appreciative.

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November 1 at 7:23 am, Heather Snow said:

Team Broken Earth is far bigger than any one could ever have imagined! Your skills, your knowledge, and your tenacity to better the people of Haiti…..be it performing life altering surgeries…..saving lives….be it through teaching the residents, the local doctors, the nursing staff, all who walk in the hospital setting……will have far reaching effects for many years and generations to come!! The quality of care…the quality of life….the glimmer of hope….you are giving the people of Haiti…..cannot be overemphasized!! Congratulations to a well orchestrated team of highly skilled professionals on your unselfish missions in Haiti!! Yes, Andrew, you do occasionally have to lay your tools down, and step outside the confines of the O.R. God Bless you…..and all those who comprise Team Broken Earth…..past, present, and future!! You do Newfoundland and Labrador…..and all mankind…..proud!! XO

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November 2 at 12:31 am, Rosanna Samson said:

Dick, so proud of you and Team Broken Earth. Your committment to making a differience is fantastic.

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