Dear Friends,
Today I saw a real reason to hope for the future of Bangladesh. In the past, I have often criticized the Bangladeshi medical system. Medical practitioners are overworked, and underpaid, faced with huge shortfalls in funding and materials while having to deal with an ever-increasing population. The strain on physicians and nurses can often come out in ways that hurt patients, directly or indirectly. However, today, as I toured the pediatric clinic at BIRDEM Hospital in the city, I saw something which I didn't expect: hope and humanity in the face of pain and suffering. Dr. Lisa, an attending pediatrician, introduced me to her brand-new clinic, meant to serve the needs of pediatric diabetes patients. Each patient referred to this new clinic gets free access to a range of services, including lab tests, consultations with doctors, and even diabetic counseling from especially trained educators! I watched as the doctors sat down with each child, reviewed their health histories, and discussed treatment plans with them. I was amazed at how gentle and kind these overworked physicans and counselors were. When I expressed my sentiments to Dr. Lisa, she said simply "I tell them that when they treat children, they must become like children." God Bless you doctor Lisa, not least of all for reminding me never to make generalizations until I know all the facts!
The pictures above are from the in-patient pediatric ward of the hospital. I believe every one of these kids suffers from diabetes. Enjoy!
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