The last 24 hours have been a blur. Yesterday 25 Plastics cases were done by us, the total OR cases numbered 38. These are big numbers for a 5 OR facility, with a 100% volunteer staff from all over the world. People are performing at the highest levels possible, under very extreme conditions. Today another 17 cases; to date we have not had a failed or infected skin graft.

Our 40 sickest surgical cases were airlifted out to other hospitals today in gigantic Navy helicopters. Hopefully this will decompress our ICU and allow us to address some of the less complicated wounds. New plastic surgeons are arriving tonight and will be staying with me in the house that we’ve arranged.

Overall it feels as though this place is improving every day. We get confronted with problems, big and small, and figure them as we go. The Haitian people are an incredibly resilient bunch. As I’m writing this at 7 pm with the sun setting, I’m listening to them break into a spontaneous hymn in there outside ward under a tent. It’s hard for me to comprehend their faith, strength, and dignity during this difficult time.

I hope some good comes out of this tragedy. Goodnight from Haiti.

Tags: Plastic Surgery Charity

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