Zhangyi suffers from atherosclerosis blocking blood flow to her legs. Just taking a few steps brings on excruciating pain signaling near death of her toes and feet. But being retired and in residential care, transportation issues limit Zhangyi access to medical consultation.
Wanghui is a six-month old orphan, body critically thin, and with a chronic rash covering her cheeks. Taken in to custodial care, the facility would like to transfer Wanghui to a foster family, where her nutrition would likely thrive. But her rash dissuades potential parents.
Liuhong has weeping, green mucus running from both eyes, progressively losing his sight. But as a factory worker in the countryside, skilled eye care is only a distant possibility.
Should these lives be saved? Certainly. But will these lives be saved? Here enters the volitional element. In a world of limited resources the only unlimited one is our capacity for compassion and innovation. The LIGHT health team of Shenyang, China is exemplary for moving principle into practice. On location, I marvel at LIGHT in action: Zhangyi received her medical consultation right at the retirement center. Wanghui’s rash was successfully treated inside custodial care, clearing the way for a foster family. Liuhong’s vision was restored far out in the countryside clinic.
Ultimately, it is individuals and small organizations that provide actual care to people on the margins. Wouldn’t you like to complement their mission? INMED can organize a service-learning opportunity with LIGHT or at another of our Training Sites in twenty-five nations.
Will people’s lives be saved? Your personal actions of compassion and innovation will make it so.