Medical Teams International’s mobile medical units enable prompt response after a natural disaster strikes. Consequentially, they bring medical care when and where it’s needed most. Here is one story of how a mobile medical unit made a difference after a recent disaster.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, many clinics in Haiti were destroyed or closed. The risk of cholera was extremely high. Many people suffered injuries. Especially in isolated, rural areas locals urgently needed a safe place to find help. Thanks to your quick response, Medical Teams International’s mobile medical units were up and running almost immediately. They provided relief and are working hard to prevent a deadly cholera outbreak.

Health workers noticed a large crowd assisting an injured man. After the hurricane, the island was devastated and many people had injuries and became ill. What was wrong with this patient? Would they be able to help him?

At this time, Jean, a 39-year-old farmer, was immediately brought in to see the physician. He was working to clear hurricane debris from land. Hence, he cut his foot while using an axe. Jean is a hard-working farmer. He needed to be mobile to make a living. Without treatment, his injury could have lead to serious infection.

Jean receives treatment for his foot

Thankfully, his fields were close to the mobile medical unit, and he was immediately brought for treatment. Jean was treated by Dr. Dave, a physician. A nurse, Teryn, and Humanitarian Team Leader, Frank. So, they cleaned and dressed the wound.

Further, Teryn describes what happened next. “After dressing his wound, Jean was unable to put his sandal back on due to the bulky dressing. However in the nature of helping one’s neighbor, Jean’s friend took off his own larger sandals and handed them over to him to use. Sometimes, even a small gesture can mean a lot to someone in times of need, and today we were blessed to witness this selfless act.”

“Sometimes, even a small gesture can mean a lot to someone in times of need, and today we were blessed to witness this selfless act.”

Neighbors helping neighbors

Certainly, it can be daunting to imagine how to begin the process of rebuilding, but Jean and his friend know exactly what to do. To be sure, a small, profound act of kindness is a great place to start.

Without a doubt, Jean was fortunate to receive medical care. According to the United Nations, Haiti is considered the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Hurricane Matthew has only added to Haiti’s recent history of devastating natural disasters. Thanks to you, Medical Teams International is in Haiti providing expert medical care for peoples’ immediate needs. Alongside this help, Medical Teams is providing disease prevention and control.

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