「Myanmar」Medical Support Begins in Sagaing – Saving Lives
On April 6, arriving in Sagaing, closer to the earthquake’s epicenter than Mandalay, the destruction was stark.
“Over a week since the disaster, it feels like day two of the Noto Peninsula earthquake,” said Dr. Inaba, emergency relief team leader. Collapsed brick homes were reduced to rubble piles, unrecognizable. Even the fire station had crumbled, trapping fire trucks and ambulances under debris.
Encounter with Myanmar Medical Students
Visiting a local hospital, the team found patients in outdoor tents, likely fearing aftershock collapses, creating a field hospital-like scene. Medical needs were clear. After discussions, Peace Winds’ “ARROWS” air rescue unit decided to establish a temporary clinic and headed to the site.
During setup, Myanmar medical students approached: “We’re unlicensed but patrolling to find people needing urgent care. We’ve identified several. If we help, can you treat them at your clinic?” They shared patient details with urgency.
Based on photos and conditions, the team deemed immediate action necessary. Nurses were sent to patients’ homes while clinic setup continued.
Untreated Critical Case: “No Money for a Hospital…”
Nurse Sakamoto was shocked to see a man lying on a bamboo bed. The 50-year-old, trapped under a collapsed house, had fractured legs—one an open fracture, with bones piercing his muscles—and a suspected pelvic injury. Splinted with bamboo and minimal bandages, his swollen wound risked tetanus.
Asked why he hadn’t sought hospital care, he replied, “I can’t afford it.” Treatment and ambulance costs were out of reach, so his family cared for him at home with scarce supplies. He endured severe pain for over a week.
We persuaded the weary family, saying “Our clinic is free. Without treatment, infection could be fatal.” Too frail for a stretcher, his bed was carried onto our truck and brought to the clinic.
Dr. Inaba’s examination revealed a grave condition, possibly requiring leg amputation. He explained the life-threatening situation to the family. The clinic lacked surgical facilities, and local hospitals were damaged or overwhelmed, making transfer difficult. Here, aid networks proved vital. The team contacted an Indian medical team with a surgical tent, who agreed to accept the patient.
“Had help come sooner, he might have avoided such a dire choice,” the team reflected. Yet, the students’ discovery and the clinic’s swift setup enabled a lifesaving handoff. Gripping his hand, they shouted, “You fought hard! You’ll make it!” as he was transferred.
Temporary Clinic Fully Launched in Sagaing
Sagaing’s historic temples, many damaged, now serve as shelters and supply points. The clinic, set up on temple grounds, uses four tents equipped with medical supplies. The above case unfolded during setup.
Initially, the team assumed trauma cases would be fewer a week post-disaster. Yet, the clinic saw many fractures, untreated due to costs, lack of access, or distrust of hospitals. Others lacked chronic illness medications or fell ill in shelters.
“Japan’s aid is highly trusted,” Dr. Inaba noted. “Our tent sees more patients than others. One woman, avoiding hospitals for 10 years, came because Japanese doctors were here. We must honor that trust.”
That day, 22 patients visited. Some expressed joy at receiving care; others wept, sharing their struggles. Beyond medical aid, the team offers emotional support, holding hands, comforting, and connecting despite language barriers.
Myanmar Earthquake Emergency Relief: Call for Donations
Peace Winds is supporting Myanmar’s earthquake victims. Your donations fuel our work, saving lives and fostering hope. Please offer generous support to those suffering.
Note: Due to overseas operations, we cannot accept goods donations.
https://lp.peace-winds.org/support_myanmar_earthquake
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