Friday, March 21, 2008 5:00 PM Cambodia
Well, we are done. We only had 10 surgeries scheduled for today so that we could be finished operating by 10:30 AM and have everyone out of the recovery room by noon. All the surgeries were simple. At 12:30 we had a closing ceremony with several dignitaries from the Cambodian government. They were very appreciative of all that we have done.
So, some final statistics:
We screened (full physical and dental examinations) 284 children and adults. Many of them had speech evaluations as well.
We performed 133 total surgeries in 4 ½ days.
Most of the surgeries were for cleft lips, palates and other complications associated with that condition.
We also did a number of surgeries on children who had been badly burned.
Carlos, our dentist, extracted more than 100 teeth.
Overall, we are tired and hot and many on the team have been quite ill. But, it was so worth it. We have truly made a difference for all of these people. It has been life changing for both of us.
We are off to the final party in a few minutes. More photos and some final words when we get home.
Thanks to all of you for your messages back. They have meant a lot to both of us.
M&B
Friday, March 21, 2008
LAST SURGICAL DAY - FRIDAY, MARCH 21ST
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4 comments:
Hi Margaret and Brian,
You must be having mixed emotions about being done. I'm sure you're hot and tired, but also filled with such a sense of accomplishment for all that you have done. Reading your blogs and seeing the pictures is very emotional. Brian, I'm sure you will get an A+++++++ on your internship. Enjoy your last night there and have a safe trip home. We can't wait to talk to you and see the rest of your pictures. Love you both,
Auntie Patti
Margaret and Brian,
Congrats on all of the work that you have done. From all that i heard i can tell that you did an awesome job! See you soon.
Love,Nat
Hi Margaret and Bri,
I am sure it must be difficult to leave today but we are all looking forward to hearing and seeing all about it.
Congrats on a job well done!!!
Love,
Sue, Tony, Alex, and of course Nat
P.S. It should be a little cooler here when you arrive.
Happy Easter
Hi Margaret and Brian,
I started to write so many times but words escaped me. Your images were so powerful and moving. In the true Easter spirit the children from Cambodia suffered and were re-born through the efforts of Operation Smile and two very special people from Topsfield that I am honored to call friends. Welcome home and we will continue to support Operation Smile through the years. Fondly, The Van Lentens
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