Packing my Bags for an Important Trip

By Dr. Mark Chariker

Most people take their faces for granted. But when you have a condition that disfigures you, you realize your face is your life. In many cases, it is your ticket to the world. Having a face that is complete, free from disease, and functional is an everyday joy many people in this world don’t get to experience.

In the U.S., most people with facial deformities have access to medical care, including surgical reconstruction. But in some other parts of the world, patients may not be so fortunate. In the Philippines, an organization called P.A.G.E.S (Philippine American Group of Educators and Surgeons) started Operation HOPE to provide medical treatment for underprivileged children with birth defects and other deformities. Every year the group brings together physicians from the U.S. and the Philippines who donate their services to perform reconstructive surgery that can change the lives of these children.

I’m looking forward to participating in this year’s trip. While there, our group will set what is, for all intents and purposes, a plastic surgery MASH unit. It’s quite an undertaking for everyone involved. People come from miles around, many of them walking dozens of miles carrying their children. So many are in dire need; some of the children have cleft palates so severe they can barely eat, but the family has no means to pay for surgical treatment.

Our nurses consult with the potential patients to pre-qualify them, and they have a short consult with a doctor before surgery begins. Our doctors may perform as many as eight to ten surgeries every day. Not exactly ideal, but for most of these children, it is their only chance to get the vital, life-changing health care they need.

When I get back, I’ll post some stories and photos, so you can see some of the wonderful work sponsored by P.A.G.E.S. Operation HOPE.