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| The surgeons need to examine this patient to determine the cause of her deformity. She may or may not be able to have surgery |
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| This boy is waiting for the Women for World Health team. |
 |
| Jusu Moseray fought the pain and the growing paralysis in his legs as he tried to stand up straight to be photographed in |
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| After eight months of **anti-Tuberculosis medications **and spinal surgery by a FOCOS **team, Jusu stoodstraight and **tall as he took some time out **from playing to be photographed **in February, 2010 |
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| According to the patient "I was bitten by something. It was a small bump that itched. (See photo below with barely a bump.) It keeps getting bigger and bigger." Unless and until he can get an MRI to determine more details of the growth and whether it has arteries in it, he cannot be operated on. The nearest MRI machine is in Ghana, three countries away. |
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| She is waiting for the Women for World Health team. With luck, she will be healthy enough for surgery. |
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| Because of her cleft lip this girl cannot go outside without protection or she will be accused of witchcraft. She does not go to school and is destined to a life of begging. Once her lip is fixed she will be able to go to school and have a future. |
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| Our surgeons are waiting for x-rays to determine if they can operate on this man. |
Wow. You tell us a lot of stories in class but I never quite realize how real these health issues are because I don't see them. Especially that guy with the huge lump on his head and the little girl accused of witchcraft for the cleft lip. I'm so glad your organization goes to help people out.
ReplyDeleteThe rest of this comment is a little off topic... I've sent this to both of the emails I have for you but I'm leaving it here on the blog, just in case.
In class today (12/1/10) we were supposed to watch the films on Myth, but the outlets weren't working so we couldn't use the VCR to play the video. There is no IT on the main campus, and when I asked up at the front desk what we should do, they said no one but a custodian could potentially help us right then. I looked around the school but couldn't find a custodian, so we took roll and agreed to try again next week.
We also searched online but couldn't find the movies at all. We're going to try watching them next Wednesday along with the Gods Must Be Crazy film. If that doesn't work, are we still going to be tested on the films?
I'll keep letting you know what happens through both emails I have for you and the blog as well. (If you can, let me know which is the best way to contact you! I should have asked last time we had class.)
You can use this url to see a scan of the roll call sheet we took today. http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y285/ProngsiesKitten/1.jpg I also included it in the emails and I have the physical copy as well.
Phew, this is way too long of a comment.
What factors will determine if the first woman featured will be able to have surgery or not?
ReplyDelete-Lindsay Matta
Oh my...I am really praying you can help the young gal at the top of the blog...ohhhhhhh my heart just breaks for her especially!!!! Safe travels and know that everyone is praying for you *all* on this incredible journey! You ALL are such heroes!!
ReplyDeleteI too am praying you all on. Lots of God's blessings, and protection for you, the Doctors, and all the patients. xoxo
ReplyDeleteThe first girl pictured looks like she has elephantisis. I wonder if her enlarged features make it harder for her to eat and breathe. My heart goes out to her and all the rest of them. I cant believe the nearest MRI machine is three countries away! We are so fortunate to live in a developed country where healthcare access is relatively easy. I am so proud of this non-profit organization for making a difference in so many people's lives. I have always dreamed of such a rewarding experience. Have a memory filled and safe trip.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a wonderful thing you do Denise! I'm so glad you made this organization to go out and do these medical missions. I'm extremely interested in the first woman's case, I'm waiting to find out if it is elephantisis and whether you're team will be able to operate!
ReplyDeleteAre these common within the area? or is it mainly common in 3rd world countries?
ReplyDelete-David Su
Looking at these photos makes me realize how much we take for granted in the US, and how we may often subconsciously assume that the situation is the same for others in the rest of the world. Medical conditions like cleft palate are easily repaired in the US, but apparently not in an LDC like Sierra Leone (and severely socially stigmatized!). I wish your team the best on your trip, and hope that everyone is able to get the medical help they need.
ReplyDeleteSuzy Paeng
It is horrible to see people who have to live with such life altering deformities such as these. Their lives must be full of conflict.... At first I thought that the pictures had camera distortion, but I was quite unnerved to see upon closer observation that the picture was crystal clear. A simple bug bite can ruin one's life in a place like that. I hope that you can give these people the help they need.
ReplyDelete-Remi Roundtree
Wow. It's incredible what some people have go through -the amount of time they have to wait and the distance they must to travel to even begin to be considered for medical treatment. That takes a lot of heart. Kinda makes me think of how much we take for granted the opportunities we have in the U.S. regarding medical treatment.
ReplyDeleteMelvin Rice
Anth. 315
Wow! its amazing that we here in the states go day to day living our lives not knowing or thinking about how lucky we are to have such great health. You guys really do an amazing thing out there in the world!
ReplyDelete-Hannah Davidson (LCAD)
These images make me reflect on how freaked out I was about our presentations in the class. Looking at these individuals that have no health care and almost no means of survival kind of puts it all in perspective. Maybe next time I won't sweat the small stuff.
ReplyDelete-Kevin Weller
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWhat does the boy, Jusu, have?
ReplyDeleteI cannot imagine the pain he must feel.
In some of the more serious cases seen above, how many surgeries will they need to endure? Will they have to go through one for the tissue removal and one for the reconstruction?
ReplyDeleteBobby Skelton (LCAD)
My neighbour is Indian, and she went back to India a while back to visit family, was bitten be something on her neck and it started to grow, much like the guy above. She recently had the bump removed and it turned out to be a tumour.
ReplyDeleteI too am curious as to what would determine the first girl's eligibility for surgery. I have no medical knowledge, but I can't imagine there being any important arteries in the nose.
As for the baby on the scale, is it only the cleft lip she need surgery for? Is it because she is an infant and may be sick from something else that that you might not perform the surgery on her?
I look forward to more posts, but mostly for updates on the surgeries your group is performing.
All of these photos are very powerful and real.
ReplyDeleteFor my question: As medical anthropologists…for this trip, will you be able to train any local doctors so they have the resources and knowledge for the future? If trained, do you think they will fix things like cleft lips, or ignore it because they don’t want to get involved in witchcraft?
I love that your organization can help out so much & I hope these people will be able to lead normal lives after surgery!
-Charlene Chand
LCAD
When I opened this page, I was shocked to see those pictures. It is very rare to see so many people suffering at one time, especially in one area. It reminds me of how sheltered our society can be because no one really tells us what is going on in the word or what is happening to these people. It makes me think that we as a nation live in our own little bubble where few of us venture out, such as yourself, to lend a helping hand. Hopefully you will be able to help them. Good luck! :]
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThe pictures are breath taking and not in a good way :( We take so much for granted in this country. We really are very well off in the United States by world standards. I wonder if the boy with the bump on his head will every have access to an MRI machine. . .
ReplyDeleteI wonder how they feel psychologically. Their situation is very difficult. I hope that after your return these patients have hope for a better life. Today I am more aware, that I am living a pretty good life. I wish the same would be for these people.
The man with the deformity growing out of the top of his head, the one who said he was bitten by something, is the growth putting pressure on his brain? I feel like growth would put pressure on the skull which in turn would put pressure on that part of the brain. I hope you are not only able to help him but all the rest of these individuals. Good Luck and God Bless.
ReplyDelete-Victoria Migliorini
Anthro 353 tuth 11am
For the case of Jusu Moseray, it is said that the paralysis is growing in his legs, but what would the tumor on his back be? Would he need to be operated on more than once for his condition? Good luck.
ReplyDelete-Annie Nguyen
Anthro 315, TuThurs 9:30am
Wow, these pictures make me realize how easy most people have it here in the states. we still have our share of problems regarding healthcare but to have the nearest MRI machine three countries away? that makes me realize we really take things for granted. I hope he can get surgery to fix the giant growth on his head. how is it possible that he was bit by something and it grew that big? thats just crazy...
ReplyDeleteAre cleft pallets developed because of nutritional deficiencies or for other reasons?
-Gabriela Barrientos
Anthro 315: TUE-THURS 9:30-10:45
Anthro 353: TUE-THURS 11-12:15
Hello Professor,
ReplyDeleteI hope you are having a safe trip. My question is:
if is determined that the young lady is eligible for surgery
how many procedures will it take to get her face
back to some sort of normalcy? Also, does she
have trouble breathing or consuming foods?
Lastly, does her community accept her, even with
her deformity?
Hello Professor,
ReplyDeleteI hope you are having a safe trip. My question is:
if is determined that the young lady is eligible for surgery
how many procedures will it take to get her face
back to some sort of normalcy? Also, does she
have trouble breathing or consuming foods?
Lastly, does her community accept her, even with
her deformity?
Kim Jones Anth 353 Tues/Thur 11:00
Wow the 5th patient who has the bump because he was bitten.. that's just crazy. I wonder what caused the swelling like that of his head. It seems to me like its possible to may be affecting his brain, which I hope is not the case. Im curious as to what bit him, and I hope that he can be operated on nonetheless.
ReplyDeleteEmily Ung TuTh 11-12:30
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI never really realized the extremities of some of these deformations. I feel especially sad about the little girl who cannot go out of the house without protection for fear of being accused as a witch. I truly hope that all these patients can receive the kinds of treatments they are seeking. It's great what your organization does for these people especially because of how it heals them not only physically, but psychologically as well.
ReplyDelete- Joanna Papa
These cases seem so surreal. It almost looks like they are done with make up for a movie or something. I can't even imagine what the plans for the surgery look like and although I hate blood and guts im really excited for these patients, I can't imagine the joy it will bring. I definitely have faith that you and your team will succeed in what you guys have came for. Good Luck!
ReplyDeleteDaniel McKenna,353
Denise, I really admire you and the team you've arranged to take the risks, time and energy to help these people. I like that you've introduced them to us before the surgeries; I am looking forward to hearing their stories.
ReplyDeleteI'm not on a career-path that anyone would consider typically humanitarian. I've always felt I should return something to the world I live in though, and if I don't find a way to do that in my career (Hopefully I can work on some public service/awareness campaigns) I may take some time off to join Peace Corps.
-Susie To Thai
-Anthro 315 T/Th 9:30-10:45 AM
wow, how did you get involved with them? i wish i could get involved like this, it really pulls at my heart and i want to help. i wonder if the boy with the bug bite will have a tumor caused by wasp or something laying and egg in him. i saw a show where that happened and when they opened it all these dead wasp babies came out. it was fascinating and disgusting. i hope he can get a scan. is there any sort of portable MRI-like machine? i know GE has ads for portable x-ray machines.... also, is the baby with cleft lip too sick to go under anesthesia? what does she have and is it easily treatable? and im so glad to see the improvement in the boy with tuberculosis. im so happy for him.
ReplyDeleteEmily Sander
ANTH 319
I really hope that all of these people get better. Seeing Jusu finally stand up like that for a picture made me smile. Those eight months of antibiotics were worth it. :)
ReplyDeleteAlso I'm very curious as to what kind of bug made THAT kind of reaction - that must have been one heck of a bug. Regardless, I hope he gets to an MRI soon.
What exactly does the baby in the small tub need to undergo surgery for? I'm curious but nonetheless I hope everything goes well for her.
I really don't like how the girl with the cleft lip is automatically assumed to be associated with witchcraft. I know it's probably because of their traditions and such, but jeez, give her a break! I'm glad you guys are going to give her a chance at a real life. I hope all of these patients are successfully treated. They all deserve a chance.
- Jeremy Kanjanapangka
I never realized how common these deformities and illnesses are in other countries. I have mostly only ever seen people who live with this through television specials and once i saw a man with elephantitis in Downtown LA. The work you and your team do is amazing; You alter their lives so much since they are often accused of witchcraft because they have these illnesses and are marginalized severely. I wish you and your team much success on this trip and all that may follow.
ReplyDelete-Julia Pedroza
Anthro 353 Tu/Th 11AM
I have high admiration for people who serve others. The patients are very fortunate to have such a dedicated team who are so passionate to serve them. May you have a sucessful and smootly run tour.
ReplyDelete-Erin Peyton, Anthro 319
I would really like to know which of the people were able to have surgeries. The first girl and the man with the growth on the top of his head seem like they would be the most difficult to operate on. As for Jusu, is he scheduled for more surgeries? It's hard to imagine having to live with those deformities, especially since some cultures will ostracize and isolate them for it.
ReplyDelete~Kathleen Bryce, Anth 353
I am extremely curious to know what might have bit the guy on the head if that was the cause of it. It is also sad to know that the nearest MRI is 3 countries away...wow.I hope he gets help soon.
ReplyDelete-Lizzete Martinez Anthro 319
It breaks my heart to see all these pictures and hear all the sad stories behind them. I'm sure nutrition, lack of medical technology, and culture have all played a role in why they are suffering from these physical abnormalities. In the case of the girl with the cleft lip, it's sad to hear that these kind of beliefs still exist in this world. She can't even go to school or enjoy a nice day outside without having to worry about being accused of witchcraft? This is unfortunate for her because she will never has get to do those things. I sure do hope she gets the surgery she needs and with it the gift of a better life.
ReplyDelete***Nancy Soriano, Anthro 319, Comment #1***
Wow..those are some amazing photos and sometimes i forget how lucky and fortune we are. it is sad to see the photos and imagine how much we complain about the way we look or any other health concerns when these people are living with even more concerns or worries and still appreciates life. thank you for sharing these photos. how long do these surgeries take to reconstruct their faces?
ReplyDeleteTiffany Yoshida, Anthro 319 comment 1
I'm really curious to hear what happened to the man who claimed he was bitten. I'd never seen anything like that before. Very tragic and strange, yet very interesting at the same time. I wonder what bite could cause an effect of that magnitude. Really strange.
ReplyDeleteWow! I am amazed at the pictures above. The work of people like Professor Denise use to seem like something I only saw on a special show on cable TV; it is a privilege to actually know a person that is a part of this amazing work. Like a lot of the previous posts, I do take for granted all the commodities that are available to me here in the U.S., as opposed to the man that needs an MRI and the closest one is 3 countries away!
ReplyDeleteThese pictures made me really grasp what Curcuny lectured on many times: Health and Healing includes culture, biology, environment, and psychology and no one factor can be examined on its own.
Very eye-opening!
Luci Gonzalez
Anth 353
When looking at these pictures, it is hard to imagine that people have to live life like this. Because I live in a country that has exceptional health care, it's not everyday that I see pictures like this. The first picture of the female with the enlarged nose brings so many questions to mind. What causes it and does she have any function of her nose? Also if it is operable, what will happen to her elongated face? As for the gentleman with the growth on his head, it's hard to imagine that a bug bite could do so much damage. If his growth is not operable, will the growth continue to get bigger?
ReplyDeleteFortunately, it is people like you and your organization that bring hope to these people. Though not everyone can be helped, it must be comforting knowing that you make a difference.
-Lindsey Kubota Anthro 319
It seems that the person with the bump may have a bacteria that could be creating brain swelling. The only way to know is through X-rays or MRI. It is also of great value that professor Cucurney and all the volunteers go to Sierra Leone, a country that was in a violent civil war a few years ago. There is a good movie call "Blood Diamonds." This movie is about how gangs in Sierra Leone use the diamond produce by this country to buy weapons and keep feeding the civil war. People in African countries like Sierra Leone not only suffer of poor health systems, but alsothey suffer from deadly civil wars. Humanitarian organizations like Women for World Health help people from these countries to decrease their suffering.
ReplyDeleteJose A. Chavez Anthro 319
It is so unfortunate that all of these people do not have access to medical care that so many of us take for granted. Many of us complain when we have to wait an hour to see a doctor, but at least we are fortunate enough to be within driving distance of a hospital at all time. Unfortunately these people must travel three countries just to find an MRI machine. I am looking forward to seeing pictures of the progress that was made during your time out there Professor Cucurny. Organizations like yours make contributions to our world that so many people never realize, bless you.
ReplyDeleteLooking at the photos are something people here in the United States or any place where we have access to medical care, have never really encountered. To be honest they are quite shocking. With the patient who has the "itchy' bump, I'm wondering what has caused it. It seems like another growing head where the skin just keeps growing. Is it just extra skin or is it an actual infection with bacterial material inside? I'm asking because I can never be involve in the medical field. Maybe the environment has caused it to grow to that extent since he claimed it itches and heat is known to be a friend to bacteria and other infectious viruses?
ReplyDelete-Cadenna Penh. Anth315. T/Thur 9:30am.
It's amazing how differently people look and treat you if you stand out, especially due to variables out of your control. The level of ostracism towards these people must be very high as they are perceived as spectacles rather than people. I'm sure this indirectly affects their family members as well.
ReplyDeleteAmanda Kho
ANTH 315
T/Th - 9:30AM
It's amazing to see the differences in available health care. Here, in the United States, we don't see many defects. When we do they are fixed in a hurry and forgotten. In other countries, where acces to health care is harder, the individuals live with the defect for life and usually have to be careful not to get accused of a crime.
ReplyDeleteWWP is an amazing organization. We all know that there is no cure for human suffering, but you and all the volunteers of WWP are definately making an effort to help. Im sure your work there is going to eliminate most of these individual's suffering and that is an AMAZING thing!! I was hoping that someone would be able to post and let us know if the woman at the top and the two men with the lumps on their head will be able to recieve treatment. I pray for their eligibility!! God Bless ALL of you... patients and volunteers
ReplyDeleteHolley Erisey
ANTH 353 T/Th 11:00
There are a lot of less fortunate people out there all around the world. Most of us are so concentrated on ways to progress more and more in life, and it is never enough. We focus so much on ourselves and our busy lives that we forget to think about others that need help. I think we need more people like you to volunteer in this great organization. It should be more advertised so that more people can be recruited to participate in such a wonderful, life-changing act. Best of luck to you all. This is an amazing organization. I hope healthcare serves them all well!
ReplyDeleteSuchada Vibulchai
ANTH319 T/Th 2:00pm
These pictures and captions really exemplify the large difference between American society and medical practices to those of third world countries. First, the young girl that cannot go out in public because she would be portrayed as a witch. In American culture, we would not portray her as a witch, many people may be fascinated by her cleft lip, because it is not something we see everyday. Furthermore, in America there is more than 7,000 MRI machines, making a trip three cities away compared to the young mans trip three countries away for an MRI. It is amazing how different the medical practices and technology are between countries and how those disease, practices, or illnesses are perceived differently in each culture.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth Bledsoe
Anth 353 T/Th 11
when i see this picture, i feel my live is really blessed. when i am hungry, i got some food to eat. when i am in the pain, my friends always help me. they need some medical care, but just because their area are poor, they cant have cure.
ReplyDeletei think it is unfair. for example, the girl who have cut lips cant go out public because people make fun of her. we are same human but just because she have cut lip.
so i want to thank WWP to go help to cure them. i think it is amazing organization.
kentaro ikudome
How is it going over there? I haven't seen any postings. Hoping all is well and that you all arrived safely.
ReplyDeleteBest Wishes,
Lori Richter
How are the surgeries going? I saw these pictures and they are a wake up call for me. Now I can see, feel and be grateful for my health and way of living. Many of us do not think about the way we live and the fortunate we are for living in a develop country and we take for granted it. I hope that all the surgeries become a success and that the patients can live happy with their "new life."
ReplyDeleteMayra Juarez
My heart goes out for these patients - the degree of ridicule and discomfort they must go through each and every day must be truly difficult to deal with.
ReplyDeleteThe girl who has the cleft lip cannot even go outside for fear of being accused of witchcraft! I do realize that her cleft palate is often viewed with suspicion, as it is not considered "normal," but to have her fear her condition is maddening. I am curious - if men have the cleft palate condition, are they also accused of witchcraft? Or is that particular blame attributed only to women?
I hope that all the other patients - the girl with the protrusions and tumors along her face, the boy with the growing bite (is that really a bite or a tumor?), the boys with the cleft palate, and the rest - can be successfully treated.
Thank the heavens that there are people like you who seek those who are in need and aid them in every way possible.
-Natalie Nguyen ANTH 315 9:30 A.M.
Some of these pictures seem unreal. Its is the first time that I have seen some of these types of issues. It seems like most in the U.S. do not realize how lucky they are to in a country that is medically advanced.Why would the little girl be considered a witch and is cleft lip common in this area? How different is their criteria of witchcraft different from ours?What is responsponsible for this deformity?
ReplyDeleteWhat are the potential dangers of doing the surgery on the girl with the nose deformity
-Tracy Lyons ANTH313 9:30am TUTH
It is both inspiring and disheartening to think that you and your team are possibly the only hope that these people have. It is terribly sad that people suffering from these illnesses and deformities are rejected by their societies and have no way of receiving medical attention.
ReplyDeleteYou said that people with cleft palates are accused of witchcraft, are all deformities viewed in the same way? I was shocked by the growth on the man's head who claimed to be bitten by an insect. How long did it take to develop and are cases such as this common? I was also wondering how complicated a surgery on a cleft lip is, and how long it takes to complete.
I would like to wish you and your team the best of luck, and can only imagine the when huge challenge of treating all the patients depending on you for help.
Cory O'Gorman Anthro 353 11am T-Th
I am so pleased to know that there are people out there like you that make the time to help out these patients in need. I am very shocked to see these pictures of these struggling individuals and to see that they are still in good spirits just makes me sad that many of us here in the states take for granted the health care system offered for us. I was happy to read that although the young boy was in pain from the growing paralysis he still wanted to get up to take a photo. That shows great strength from this young boy. Im extremely concerned of the male who was bitten on the head. How long did it take for the bump to increase in size and although it is hard to believe it was a bite, what kind of bugs, spiders or insects do they have over there that could possibly cause this?
ReplyDeleteS. Vanessa Prado
Anthro 319
Having heard about your past journeys and patients does not compare to what I have seen in the blog pictures. I could had never imagined that people in third world countries are suffering that much. Not only do they suffer from being poor, but they also lack adequate health care. The two patients that truly touched my heart are Jusu Moseray and the patient that was "bitten by something" and now has a large deformity growing on the right side of the top of his head. It is really depressing to see how young Jusu Moseray is and he is unable to stand straight without feeling any pain. The patient that was "bit by something" made me realize how lucky we are in living in a country that has MRI machines in almost every city. It is so unfortunate that he has to travel 3 countries just for an MRI. Adequate should be available for everyone in this world because we are all human beings. But because that is not the case, we should make an effort to support more organizations like Women for World Health.
ReplyDeleteGood luck, safe trip, and God bless you!
-Karent Gonzalez Anth 353 tu/th 11
Hi Professor,
ReplyDeleteI got to say that viewing these pictures, the conditions that these people are in are pretty different and maybe even bizarre to us in America. I wanted to point out though, as much as we may watch documentaries and look at pictures and etc., I guess we will never really know what it is like to live in those conditions and understand the circumstances that those people go through.
The picture that shocked me most was the man who had a bump on his head and says that it started as an itch. If it is still growing, could that mean that whatever might've bitten him left some of their organisms in his head and are reproducing more and more? Crazy idea but just a thought.
_Brittny Fuimaono
Anth 353
Just as young girls were accused of witch craft because of the clefts, were any women or young girls that suffered any other conditions like the first lady pictured accused of witch craft as well, or was it seen as a another normal inevitable condition?
ReplyDeleteAre these deformations on the skull occur at birth or during early childhood before the fontanelles have bonded together and have some sort of an accident and become deformed?
ReplyDeleteMatt Driscoll
Anth 315
Its very unfortunate that some people have to live with these terrible harships. Good thing that this organization and many others are around that can help people like this live a more satisfying life
ReplyDeleteWow, it is really heartbreaking to see these photos. It is amazing how environment and circumstances can have such a huge effect on life. It is really sad knowing that not only do many of these people have to put up with physical pain, but also the pain of being rejected by much of society. Hope all is going well.
ReplyDelete~ Melody Rudd
Anthro 315
It is very nice to see that the patient with the giant abnormal growth on the skull had a successful operation. I was wondering if the bump on the head was part of the actual skull (made of bone) or was it just soft tissue? Was there any major arteries in the tissue?
ReplyDeleteDonine So
Anth. 315
Also, for a medical question, I was wondering how long recovery from these types of surguries take considerering there in a 3rd world country. Is being in recovery in a 3rd world country have any effects on how long it takes to get better?
ReplyDeleteAnthro 319
I was wondering how your crew finds these candidates for surgeries. Since there are a vast amount of people with abnormalities, how is it that these people are so lucky to receive treatment? Do they put their name on a list, or is it first come, first serve? I have to say, this is an amazing thing and I'm glad there are people out there like you to help others who are in need!
ReplyDeleteANTRHO_315
It's great ACTUALLY seeing people making a difference in these people's lives. I can't believe the nearest MRI machine is 3 countries away. On television wilderness survival attack stories you hear the cliche that the nearest hospital is "twenty miles away" "an hour away" etc. but three countries for an MRI?
ReplyDeleteJusu Moseray's face looks really sad in the first picture. But after being treated you can completely see a change. And even though the picture is small you can see his smile. It's so amazing.
Wow, I didn't realize the extent to which people across the world need healthcare. It's easy to get caught up in our own lives here and forget about helping others. These pictures were hard to look at. They make me want to get involved somehow. I used to volunteer in other countries and it'd be great to get back into it.
ReplyDeleteAngela Bui
ANTH 319 T/Th 2:00pm
It really makes you think how much we take for granted our health and resources. How people can live with these deformations for years without treatment is depressing. I have nothing but respect for this team because they give people hope when nothing else can.
ReplyDeleteGregory about the time of recuperation, it all depends of the kind of surgery the person has, and the overall health of that person. I have been working in hospitals for 15 years, and I already had three surgeries. Some of these surgeries could take a few days, or it could take several weeks. If there is a nosocomial infection (infection acquired during hospitalization)the recuperation time may take even months. The problem in African countries where there are not standard facilities like in most western countries is the risk of infection after the procedure. I am sure the volunteer doctors and nurses take good precaution to avoid any subsequent infection after any surgical procedure done.
ReplyDeleteJose A. Chavez ANTH 319 T/Th 2:00 PM
It would be interesting to know what are the factors that can make a patient eligible for surgery because some of these deformities look very complicated. How many surgeries would it take to allow the child to stand up straight? Would some of these complications be limited to the team's available technology? Well I hope the team can help as many patients as possible we definitely need more people like Professor Cucurny. -Francisco Ramos Anth353 TuTh
ReplyDeleteThe girl in the second photo from the bottom reminds me of the movie we watched in Anthro. 353: Health and Healing about the mission to Vietnam to perform surgeries for people with cleft lips and other malformations. The girl and boy are similar in that they both have cleft lips. The boy received surgery for his cleft lip and was extremely happy. The fact that both of the children are discriminated against illustrates the fact that there are some similarities cross-culturally that determine what is normal and what is not. The girl cannot go to school and live a normal life because of her cleft lip and is thought to be using witch craft because of it. The Vietnamese boy was considered bad luck and the superstition was that any pregnant woman who looked at him would bear a child with a cleft lip. Because of this the boy and girl have to stay inside and cannot live normal lives.
ReplyDeleteI hope the girl receives surgery
Jodie Williams, Anthro. 353 T-TH 11-1215
the man with a bump on his head, was he able to get the MRI, and if so, what what in the bump, and why would it matter if it has arteries? would that complicate things?
ReplyDeleteThe young girl with the cleft lip, i was wondering even after surgery with the scarring, will people still implications of her being a witch, and how would that affect her adult life? When you leave the area, is there some who returns to keep you updated on the status of your patients?
ReplyDelete-Barbara Bastos ANTH315
I'm interested in knowing how and when did some of these patients begin to notice their illnesses. I would like to know if any of these patients became this way because of their environment and also if they are looked down upon like some of the patients in the film The Story of Healing .
ReplyDeleteIt is truly amazing work that Women For World Health are doing and I hope to someday be able of making a difference in people’s lives like this team does.
-Luci Gonzalez
Anth 353
What is amazing is how we look at these photos and find them to be horrific, shocking, and unimaginable. In the U.S. you do not see people walking along the street with huge lumps on their head or children who walk bent over because their body will not allow them to stand up. Today if a child is born with a deformity they are usually operated on as soon as possible. You look at the young children and it breaks your heart. Then you look at the older children and adults and wonder how did they let it get this far? It is hard for us who live in such a sheltered society to imagine not being able to get help. Plastic surgery is huge in the U.S. It is not uncommon to see young girls getting nose jobs or implants for high school graduation. You also look at Heidi Montag. When you take a look at other countries and the reasons they seek plastic surgery it makes one sad to think of the society we live in today where there is the constant desire for "perfection".
ReplyDeleteMelissa Mathieson
Having heard of the medical ailments the team of Women for World Health have seen on past trips during lectures did not paint the picture of what I have seen on the blog photos. It has been hard to understand and conceptualize how one can go through the day with a painful illness or by simply being ostracised, like the young girl with the cleft lip.
ReplyDeleteReading through the captions, what stuck out to me is that the nearest MRI machine was three countries away. After reading this, I realized these individuals from third world countries not only suffer from lack of food, clothing, and clean water, but the suffer from the lack of medical resources.
Frances Paredes
ANTH 353 - T/Th 11:00
The connection of the mind and the body has a great impact on health of an individual. Therefore, the surgeries provided by WWH are truly an admirable service. The pressures in America to be beautiful and to have perfect bodies are of a different level to the physical problems as depicted here. While the problems of both societies can cause damage to individuals, personally, the problems these people face bring me back to reality. It helps me realize how much strength a person can have and that the solutions to our problems are out there if we find them.
ReplyDeleteGeralyn Gatbonton
ANTH 353 TuTh 11:00 a.m.
These pictures just remind us all that we are fortunate to be healthy and have the resources to take better care of our health. The picture comment that surprised me the most was the girl with the cleft lip that cannot go outside without protection because she would be accused of witchcraft. What makes me wonder is, if they suspect her of witchcraft because of cleft lip what does society think of those those have more even more unfortunate disfigurations? Its truly amazing that an organizations like WWH is there to do what they can and positively influence peoples lives.
ReplyDeleteLooking at the picture with the little girl having the cleft lip and hearing the little is not allowed to go to school because having the left cleft is considered witchcraft and the little girl can be punished. This is unfair to her and many other children who are born with this deformity and they are being punished of not getting an education just because of the genes of their parents. No matter the case of the children, all children should get the opportunity of an education.
ReplyDeleteNatalina Capra (anthro 319)
Many of these children with these deformities are being punished and not being helped by society whereas in the United States children are able to get an education and can accomplish just as much as anyone else. Everyone is equal and people with deformities have the same benefits as anyone else. These children are being isolated from society because they are different.
ReplyDeleteNatalina Capra (anthro 319)
Denise, you are a blessing not only to the people you work for (the patients), but to the world. You have created a great organization and every year you make it happen!
ReplyDeleteBy changing the lives of the individuals', you and the team are changing the world. You really have created a beautiful thing.
I'm sure your team of surgeons will able to operate on the woman's nose and the man's bump on his head. They have a ton of experience with this work and I have faith in their good hands.
I'm excited to hear (and see) what happens next... GOOD LUCK!
Amber Schmidt
Human Development
Anth. 319, T-TH 2-3:15
My heart goes out to each and everyone of the patients. I pray that each of them can be helped. We take so much for granted while others around the world suffer. I'm glad that the Women of the World Health team is their providing some kind of relief for the people in need.
ReplyDeleteAlice Pittslaw
Human Development
Anthro 319
T/Th 2-3:15 pm
the stories you told in class made me sad, but these pictures really make you realize how bad these medical issues really are. Im glad theres organizations to help these individuals. I was happy to see the before and after photos of Jusu. I hope the others have just as good of outcomes.
ReplyDeleteKelly Windt
Anth 319
t/th 2-3:15
As of December 9, how many surgeries have been performed? I am curious about the young lady with the deformities in the first picture. Did she qualify for surgery?
ReplyDeleteThank you
Kim Jones Anth 353 Tuesday/Thursday 11:00am
2nd Question
After viewing the pictures and thinking about it over night all I could think about were the differences between western medicine and well everyone else. From my own experiences of working in hospitals it seems that at first everyone is treated like a number, people being referred to by room number or medical record number, or sometimes a last name where no true identity is attached. The person seems to loose face among the type of procedures, being proked and proded, its so incredibly unusual. Sometimes I think that western medicine has it all wrong. But after looking at the pictures it makes me feel incredibly fortunate at the same time. Becuase I know that I in my lifetime I will probably never have to confront some of the diseases that face the people in Sierra Leone, like those viewed in the pictures posted. I feel what I may be sacrificing, in terms of being treated more holistically in the states, seems like its worth the sacrifice when compared to the possible disease that these less fortunate people face. My next question would be what kind of medical systems do these people have intact as of now? Are there attempts to incorporating western medicine on their own? Do they practice shamanism, as seen in the video viewed in class, that worked for the one guy complaining of pain? If both are practiced are they incorporated into each other or do they remain seperate?
ReplyDeleteThe deformities and illness these people go through are absolutely unbelievable. I cant believe that you encountered the case with the cleft pallet, and that she is accused of witchcraft for it. It's one thing to hear abut these cases in class, but its another world to see actual images, and know that you and your team are stepping up to help people with low supplies or knowledge in the medical field. I hope all of these cases are somewhat resolved, and if not, they will have hope knowing that people like you are aware and trying to help.
ReplyDeleteThese are all very interesting cases. I am curious to find out th esolution to their cases and the conditions of the home and facility enviroment.
ReplyDeleteSeana S
you never know that many people suffer from many disabilities. the first patients seems to be suffering from a keloid that expanded. I too suffered from keloids. i had one on each ear, and one in the middle of my chest. the ones on my ears came from piercings. i was give steroids shots in the keloids so that they would disintegrate and soon fall off. that never happened. so i had surgery. the doctors thought that radiation would also help prevent the keloids from returning. however, they did go down and weren't as big as before the radiation and surgery did help. i think that if this patients receives surgery it will help her deformity.
ReplyDeleteEbony Reado
Anthro 319
In most cases, one would think that a person with cleft lip would be treated just as any other human being. It's sad to see such a young girl be accused of performing witchcraft due to her disability. Due to their lack of resources, the girl is unable to receive help. This is an prime example of how many countries are underdeveloped. This country is underdeveloped compared to the United States where if a child here were suffering from such a drastic deformity they could easily go for aid to get surgery for the cleft lip. It is also show Cultural comparison. In her country they say that due to her deformity she's performing witchcraft where here in the united States they just view it as a birth defect. I think that by Women's for World Health helping this patients will help her so she won't have to live the rest of her life in solitude.
ReplyDelete-Ebony Reado
Anthro 319
I had a hard time picturing the extent of the diseases these people had when you described them in class, but it's amazing to actually see them. Though I wonder, how exactly would something as small as a bug bite turn into something as huge as that lump on the man's head? Is it just infection?
ReplyDeleteI hope your trip is/was successful!
Wow, the things you guys are faced with are very different from each other. It is a blessing that you guys are able to help all of these people out and improve their quality of living. Also, what bug/animal could have caused that growing bump on the man's head? Was it a mosquito who was carrying this disease? It indeed makes people wonder how a bite has grown to such a huge bump and the cause of it.
ReplyDelete-Eduardo Viramontes
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteIt seems that some of these illnesses and deformities are sometimes cause by the poor conditions in which people in third world countries, especially in Africa, live. The main problem in most of the poor countries is the lack of clean water. Also, some of the deformities could be provoke by contamination of water supplies or contaminated food that mothers eat during pregnancy. It is very sad to realize that a natural product like water that most of us sometimes waste is a luxury in poor countries.
ReplyDeleteJose A. Chavez ANTHROPOLOGY 319
seeing all of these pictures makes you feel grateful for the simple things, such as having normal facial features. your face is the first thing that someone one looks at and to have a deformity makes one very self conscious about what others may think of them. having people donate their time to help these people fix their deformities is very heart filling knowing that there are many good people out there donating what they can to help these people. i would love to do something like this because knowing that youve helped someone feel better health wise and self esteem wise is a great feeling. it is unfortunate and sad that these people have to live like this and is especially heart breaking for those that are unable to get help or be treated.
ReplyDelete-Clarice Hayag
Anthro 319 tu/th 2-3:15
I wonder if there seems to be one main etiology. I would think for the patients who were born with a cleft lip, either malnutrition during the mothers pregnancy or some sort of exposure to pollutant or contaminant in the environment might have been the main cause. As far as the other abnormalities, they could be due to contaminants in water and food or maybe due to some illness. Whatever the etiology, I sure hope these patients receive the help they need. It is evident that the medical technology is not as easily available as it is here in the U.S. (like the MRI machine they need is 3 countries away!). I'm glad to hear there are organizations like women for world health!!! Good luck to all!!!
ReplyDelete***Nancy Soriano, Anthropology 319, Comment #2***
It is amazing to see your organization at work, after all I hear about it. I am so glad that these people have somewhere to turn to to get help. What you do really is awe-inspiring, Denise.
ReplyDeleteMari Arakaki
All of these cases of children with cleft lips reminds me of a documentary, "Smile Pinki" i saw about a young Indian girl with a cleft lip... I noticed many of the children have cleft lips. why might this be and how come these birth defects aren't more common in developed countries?
ReplyDeleteAlso, i think what your organization does for these beautiful people is amazing, however how do you have the heart to reject people when they do not meet the requirements for treatment? Or is it possible to treat everyone and anyone needing medical attention?
Thank you Prof. Denise Cucurny
Ulises Villavicencio
Anth 315
For extra credit for this class I read a book called the "Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" essentially a book about a Hmong family living in Fresno, who have a daughter that has epilepsy. The Hmong believe that this disease is honorable and they do not want their daughter cured. Her disease can eventually allow her to become a shaman in her culture. I find this interesting in comparison to most third world countries that we have studied were diseases usually create feelings of isolation with those affected. I wonder if in Africa, coonsidering the high cases of cleft lip and other birth defects, mainly caused by poor nutrition, whether the people there are as scared/turned off by their own people or if they are becoming more accepting because modern health and technology are informing them of the causes. I personally would like to think that is the case, but is more likely not the situation, considering that the people of Sierra Leone are limited in terms of outside contact, due to poverty and location.
ReplyDeleteI was also thinking the other day about how the doctors that grew up in these conditions and then had the desire to go back and help their own people. I can't imagine a lot of people not from the country wanting to go to Sierra Leone and set up practices for their life's income. I was also thinking about the psyche of the doctors that work in those conditions as well, do they feel guilty or feel responsible for such the poor conditions that are given to them by the gov??? I mean I would be pretty mad being expected to work in such poor conditions, trying to help so many people that obviously need it!!
I keep looking at these photos and can never figure what to say. The stories of the few people shown and also knowing that there are a ton more people that your team will be helping is surreal. Throughout class you had asked us to look up stories within the NonWestern world that we couldn't see ever happening where we live. These stories are definitely in that category. I do find it a bit frustrating that you may not be able to perform surgery on a few patients, and I'm sure if you could you would, but the fact that some of the cases may be a lost cause is upsetting. Seeing other people in need and suffering and not being able to do much about it from the other side of the world, in a word, sucks. I think, how do these things happen to people and how can public governments and officials not react in a more proactive manner to help these people, even with simple needs like water? Only now do I realize how appreciative we should be to have available medical care, whether people have insurance or not, but at least we have the option and availability of decent healthcare near by. The work you have ahead and have done is inspiring and the world is better for it. I hope you can help these people and give them a better quality of living.
ReplyDelete(Kristina Gonzales- LCAD)
When I saw these pictures I was shocked by it. This is not something that we associate in our everyday lives. These people really needs helps and help begins with us. I have always taken my life for granted and now these pictures has change my point od view in life. Its time for me to not thinking about myself but how to make a difference in peoples lives. I want to join to be part of the women for world health!!
ReplyDeleteYeo Mei Yen Antro 319
It is unfortunate that the people affected in those pictures cannot seek immediate care. It struck me when the man who was bit by an insect cannot get checked at a hospital due to the MRI machine being three countries away.
ReplyDeleteIn the United States, along with the rest of the developed world, people affected with cleft palate can get surgery at an early age. Unfortunately for the people in those pictures, they have to wait for help to arrive. Women for World Health provide those people with hope. It is incredible when people are willing to take the time to help people in underdeveloped countries have a chance at a better future.
Patricia Aspiras
ANTH 319 TuTh 2-3:15
I was expecting to be moved by the pictures, but not this much. These poor people have had to live like this for so long, I can't even begin to imagine what it must be like. Your team is amazing for going out there to help give them hope and second chances at really living. I'm praying they all are able and healthy enough to receive the help you are there to provide! My thoughts are out there with you!
ReplyDeleteMary Denk
Anth 315, Sec 01
TuTh 9:30-10:45
Wow.. It's hard to even imagine people going through health problems like this because we don't see it often or even hear about it on the news as something that should be taken care of. These people need immediate care and attention because they are all so young and if we can do something to make a difference in someone's life, it makes the world a better place. In the U.S. we do take for granted all the free health services we have here. Many of our health programs are based on prevention methods, however, many countries cannot even afford to take the first step in fighting disease and illness. It's so shocking how some cultures' beliefs and attitudes about their health issues are based on superstitions from their ancestors. I'm so happy to see there are organizations out there that are helping to educate and treat these patients so that they can have a better chance in life.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless! <3
-Tuyet-Nga Thach
Anth 319 Tu/Th 2-3:15
For the case of the young boy, Jusu Moseray, what is the probability that he will be admitted in his village as a "normal" member of society? meaning will he be accepted by his community? i would find it difficult for him to be accepted 10 years from now. especially since it was mentioned about a case of a girl with a cleft lip was not allowed out of her home since she would be accused of being a witch.
ReplyDeleteThank you
Ulises Villavicencio
Anth 315
Wow. It's hard to imagine how living with those kind of conditions do to a person's well being and moral. I can only imagine that it is hard to cope with the physical problems as well as any ridicule that comes from their culture. I hope you guys make living a little easier for them
ReplyDeleteMonica
Anth 353 Tu/thu 11:00-12:15
Anth 319 2:00-3:15
These pictures were an eye opener to just how much bigger the world can be, but at the same time I fell that these sort of things happen just in our backyards. Everything in the world is so much closer than it seems, but it's thanks to your organization that these things can help be prevented or changed. It's disappointing to see that things like this happen, but it's a great way to inspire hope to see how much a group of people can do to affect the world.
ReplyDeleteTrent
Anth 353 11-12:15
Some of the surgeries like clift lip surgery are today very simple in developed countries that it is heart breking to see that in third world countries is still challenging to have this kind of surgery. i am sure live will change for many of these children ones they have their surgery. I hope the best for them. It would be great that more humanitarian organization could provide the help that womenfor worldhealth are providing.
ReplyDeleteBest whishes for all of them.
Jose A. Chavez Anthropology 319 Tu/Th 2:00 PM
These pictures are pretty amazing to see because of the potential impact you can have on changing their lives. The way you described elephantiasis in Anth353 is immediately what I thought of when I saw the first picture of the girl with the deformity. I hope this trip has been a successful one and hope to see updated pictures when you return!
ReplyDeleteEmily Guidangen
-Anth319
-Anth353
As it gets closer to the Christmas season, I know we can often forget how fortunate we are compared to other people around the world. I will defiantly be praying for these people and more these holidays.
ReplyDeletewhen i see this picture, i feel my live is really blessed. when i am hungry, i got some food to eat. when i am in the pain, my friends always help me. they need some medical care, but just because their area are poor, they cant have cure.
ReplyDeletei think it is unfair. for example, the girl who have cut lips cant go out public because people make fun of her. we are same human but just because she have cut lip.
so i want to thank WWP to go help to cure them. i think it is amazing organization.
kentaro ikudome
These images are astounding. I cannot imagine the difficulties that these people have to endure in their daily life. To have to ability to change the life of one individual must be extremely gratifying, changing the life of many, even more so. Human variation can't be more present here.
ReplyDeleteAnth315 T/Thu
9:30AM-10:45AM
The people in these pictures are in need of the help that women for world can provide. Wonder what could of caused the growth in that mans head. If it was a bite of some animal its having a very strange reaction.
ReplyDeleteAnth315 T/Thu
9:30am-10:45pm
I think it's really great what your organization is doing for these people. It's incredible how much a little volunteer time by some professionals can benefit so many peoples lives in so many ways. I can hope one day I will be able to help people as much as you guys have. I hope all the surgeries are successful and look forward to viewing the rest of the pictures.
ReplyDeleteMichael Auerbach
-Anth353
After going through all the pictures posted, I found it interesting that many of the patients being treated are children. For instance, the baby boy with paralysis in his legs and the baby girl with the cleft lip. This organization is contributing so much to not only the children themselves but to their future.
ReplyDeleteFrances Paredes
ANTH 353 T/Th 11:00
Hard to imagine such poverty but seeing it really begins to put it into perspective. We fight over health care a lot but at least we have access to it! This post is really moving. It's amazing to me that there isn't access to a MRI machine for such a large region....just shows how much we take for granted. I have tremendous sympathy for the children persecuted for witchcraft based on a medical condition. I hope to hear several success stories on Wednesday!
ReplyDeleteClaire Bush
LCAD Non Western Culture
I feel really bad for the girl who can't go outside her house because she might be accused of witchcraft. It is crazy how people in other countries think and how their beliefs are extremely different from ours. I hope she is able to get surguery and attend school on the near future.
ReplyDeleteLizzete martinez anthro 319
I always loved hearing your stories during class, and these pictures make it clear that there is never a shortage of patients in need of your team's work. I can't fathom the conditions and suffering that these people have endured, and it's uplifting to know that they could be among the fortunate ones whose lives have been changed through your intervention.
ReplyDeleteRichie Mitchell
Anth 315, Sec 01
TuTh 9:30-10:45
The level of medical care in these countries must be appalling. It shows an amazing amount of care and effort for people to donate their time to help these unfortunate people. Good job everyone.
ReplyDeleteMike Shanas
Anth 319 T-Th 2:00
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThe pictures of these individuals appear unreal. I’ve never seen a person with a permanently swollen face or an elongated head. I don’t know how many cases there are of the people with distorted areas of the body but I am sure these people are extremely grateful for the help they are receiving from Professor Cucurny and her cohorts. It takes a lot of passion and dedication to travel to another country and provide assistance. This world needs more wonderful supporters like Professor Cucurny and the organization she represents.
ReplyDeleteMark Herrera ANTH319
Looking through the images in this blog made me realize how much the U.S. takes healthcare for granted. We live in a flourishing country with everything in the palms of our hands. These countries and people have nothing. They are probably lucky enough to get their next meal let alone full medical treatment for their conditions. We live in a country that brings so many problems and conflicts into something so readily available to us. I hope and pray that all of these individuals are able to get what they need to be better physically, emotionally, and mentally.
ReplyDeleteAnth 319 Tu-Thurs 2:00pm
I am very anxious to see some 'after' photos of the surgeries. I want to know which patients were eligible to recieve treatment and what they look like now. I know that the volunteers are probably all very tired, but we are all anxious to see the miracles you have performed... so please hurry? Welcome Home
ReplyDeleteHolley Erisey
Anth 353 T/Th 11:00
I have been waiting and am eager to see the results of the trip, I hope that the team was able to help these patients. I'm curious as to what the primary limiting factor is in selecting patients to treat. Are you limited by time, funding, equipment, volunteers, or a combination of the above?
ReplyDeleteRyan Chapman
Anthro 315 T/Th 9:30
Maybe the internet is still down and that's why there's no updates but I hope to see how the surgeries went or if the patients were able to treated. I'm really curious whether the little boy who has paralysis and can't stand up straight will be able to be close to back to normal. If he did get the treatment, would he be able to continue to grow since he is still young. By looking at the photo, it seems like it would be a difficult surgery if he was to get one.
ReplyDelete-Cadenna Penh, Anth 315 9:30am
Jusu Moseray had paralysis in his legs but with medication and surgery he is now able to play with the other children. Our media prefers to report on stupid stuff like the Kardashians or Tiger Woods but the focus should be on special organizations that help others. The Women for World Health, Inc. is making a positive difference in our world. Also, where are our American celebrities when we need them the most? Can’t we get a celebrity to donate an MRI to this country instead of spending money on hookers (Tiger Woods and Charlie Sheen) or a dog’s mansion (Paris Hilton)?
ReplyDeleteMark Herrera ANTH319 comment#2
Wow there is a lot of children and adults that need medical attention. I am glad that you are involved in an organization that helps these people get better. It is heartbreaking to see that these people need to wait to be treated. Seeing those pictures, I hope that all of them have the opportunity to get better and have better lives and futures.
ReplyDeleteAmy Cobarrubia
ANTH 319 2pm
I hope and pray that the little girl with the cleft lip surgery goes well. I think it is ridiculous how people are accusing her of witchcraft due to a cleft lip. I was wondering are facial and cranial deformities due to lack of proper nutrition or is it genetic?
ReplyDeleteDonine So
Anth. 315
It boggles my mind to think that minor physical aspects of a child would determine what kind of life they would be destined to have. Just because of a cleft lip the child would not be able to go to school or go anywhere by herself without protection? It gives a lot of perspective to how much freedom we have and the different types of stereotypes and racism that is lead in the world. It makes me feel very fortunate and grateful that there are people who are willing to literally travel the world to help others. Thank you for giving me a glimpse to the outside world.
ReplyDeleteAnth 315 - Ngan Joyce Duong
I hope all of the missions were successful and that all of the patients were qualified and the equipment was transported and working. I can't wait to hear about all of the success you had on this trip.
ReplyDeleteBesides luck, how else is the Women for World Health team nursing the infant to a steady and healthy enough state for surgery?
ReplyDeleteMany children have been killed due to religious and/or curltural beliefs and they are usually deemed to be, in some way, evil or harmful to their society and culture. Anthropologically it is a difficult task in teaching proper medical realities while also dealing with how a culture is organized.
ReplyDeleteJustina Grorich
Anthro 319
craniofacial abnormalities must be the hardest on young children. especially in societies where they are believed to be due to witchcraft rather than medical reasons such as tumors.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this blog with our class. I hope viewing these pictures makes everyone stop and realize how fortunate they are. Even on our bad days or worst day, we have so much to be thankful for. The work that W4WH has done and continues to do, is absolutely incredible. May all of your helpful, medical endeavors be successful.
ReplyDeleteAmanda Perry
Anthro 319
I'm curious to whether any of the patients have gotten infections while healing due to the geographical climate and if this variable factors in when the organization visits a country. From what I am aware of Sierra Leone is a tropical area and should be in its dry season now...
ReplyDeleteAmanda Kho
Anth 315 - T/Th @ 9:30
Comment #2
I know Sierra Leone has had a recently long history of civil war and human rights violations. I did a little research and I found that a Free Health Initiative pass this last April. How has this benefitted the citizens of this country and is it providing health care on a mass scale? It seems that it the responsibility of the developed world to take care of those who have been hurt the most by the economic exclusion of this globalized world.
ReplyDeleteLuis Moreno
Anth 315
As many of my peers have noticed and commented before me, these images sheds light onto my comfortable livelihood and how I easily, and very often, take my fortunes for granted. Although it is startling to see images like this, it is more-so unimaginable to have to experience such deformities on a daily basis. Not only must the inevitable ostracizing from their surrounding society be taken into consideration but also the relentless challenge of performing daily functions with some of these deformities must be unbearable for these individuals. I hope there was an answer for each of these cases and I will use these images as motivation to better appreciate the fortunes that I have been given.
ReplyDeleteWhat we sometimes forget to understand in this country is that we have a lot of nothing. So much nothing that we take everything for granted. We also consume without taking into account the hardships that this consumption poses on people around the globe. It is a farce that economic development can bring progress and prosperity to all but a select few. The rest, Africa being the most obvious example of economic exclusion from the global market, must lay in the outskirts of "civilized society" and must learn to accept conditions of health which would be inexcusable in the developed world, as evidenced by these shocking photographs. It is our responsibility and the responsibility of our governments to address these issues.
ReplyDeleteLuis Moreno
Anth 315
I hope that each surgery went as planned and the lives of those you've helped become better! It's amazing what your team has done.
ReplyDeleteAnthro 315: TuTh 9:30am-10:45am
WOW! Out of all the times you've talked about the different deformities and problems in other countries, I've never imagined anything like this. These photos really have made me be even more grateful and it should have touched other students as well. I hope you guys were able to help these people so they could have a little less pain to deal with. Especially the girl who can not even go outside without protection so she isn't accused of witchcraft. Americans really do take things for granted but there should be no reason why after seeing photos such as these. I know we haven't received anymore updates on how theses surgeries went or if they could be helped but I hope that you were able to make there lives just a little better by being able to do the surgeries.
ReplyDeleteKimberly Pruitt
Anthro 315 TuTh 11:00am- 12:15pm.
I hope that after pictures can later be posted. Those are just as impacting as the before pictures.
ReplyDeleteAll these pictures remind me of the documentry i saw a while back, i remember in the documentry there was a huge line of people from as far as 10 miles away, or more, and hoped to be called, is it true where you are too?
ReplyDeleteIf the growth on the man's head is able to be operated on how would you go about removing it? What do is the probable causes of it?
ReplyDeleteI'm really blown away by the size of the bump. I hope everything goes well and you are able to operate
Wendi
I can't imagine having anything even close to resembling what the people in the photographs have...not only is it difficult for them to do anything about it medically, but like we learned in class, society would label some as witches. Besides the outer appearance and the judgement from society there must be a great deal of pain taking place as well as their "deformities" ( I don't care for that word much but it is the only one that came to mind) getting in the way of daily life.
ReplyDeleteToday I was looking forward to seeing the updated pictures but I guess there is a problem with the internet in your area.
ReplyDeleteP.S. In my last post I spelled there incorrectly.
Alice Pittslaw
Anthro 319
T/Th 2-3:15 pm
After seeing these photographs I feel quite fortunate for my personal health and that of my love ones. It also makes me realize how much we take in for granted, most people spend most of their life complaining for what they dont have, without realizing how there are many more that are terribly more misfortune without a choice; like these people. I hope this organization gives these people that light of hope for a better life.
ReplyDelete-Jocelyn Martinez-Rivera
Anthro 319
As many can see, health is really important. So many people sit on their health care and not take advantage of their many great benefits, while others in third world countries suffer with little to no health care.
ReplyDeleteJessica Smith Anthro 319
I was also thinking about how fast some of the growths on a few of the people would grow, and what happens if they go untreated. The only thing I can somehow connect that aspect to is my mom having skin cancer on her wrist and how far that spread over such a short period of time coupled by its aggressive nature. WIth NO treatment at all, I wonder how bad that would have gotten, plus other environmental factors and health issues that might contribute.
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with the majority of people on this blog who have talked about the importance of looking at your own life, and being thankful that most of us have never had to experience what these individuals are going through. I can't even say the words, " I can only imagine," because that does not even begin to come close to what it must be like to deal with disabilities on these levels. I know to expect that we will be hearing of successful stories of surgeries upon the group's return, but what I am especially looking forward to are the stories that tell us more about who these people are and where they come from. It is important for all of us to remember that these individuals are not defined by their disabilities, and that everyone has an amazing story to tell.
ReplyDeleteKamla Brahmbhatt
Anthro 319 (T/TH 2-315)
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure if anyone has asked this yet, or if there have been any answered responses:
ReplyDeleteI was thinking more about the process in setting up one of these medical missions. How does the organization select which individuals to treat? I'm sure the process is very diffucult, seeing that the automatic response would be to try and treat everyone who needs help.
Kamla Brahmbhatt
Anthro 319 (T/TH 2-315)
These photos are very powerful and I'm sure what your organization does changes lives to say the least.
ReplyDeleteHow do you determine whether or not to operate on a patient? Does it rely on the resources around you or the patient's condition. Would it be possible for a patient with a serious condition to be sent back here in the United States to be operated on?
I have always been interested in medical expeditions and I was wondering if you could give me information on volunteering.
Coming from such a privileged country, it's hard to grasp that so many people can and must live with such health concerns. Is there a specific reason that so many of the people in that area have facial deformities, such as the cleft lip? Is it hereditary?
ReplyDeleteSeeing these images, I feel so glad that there are organizations such as yours that are willing and able to go out and help these people.
-Amanda Vidad/LCAD/Non-Western Culture
The most amazing case in my opinion is the man with the growth on his head. I can't believe that used to be a bite and transformed into this. The removal of it is probably risky, in case of arteries being in the way, right? I can't wait to hear about all the people you guys helped. I can't believe all of these bizarre cases, and I hope a good portion of these patients were able to be helped in some way.
ReplyDeletewhoa...so, how do you deal with the medical shortage? I think there are more people need help just as those people. The wealthy comfort we see in here is kind of deceiving.
ReplyDeletebut...how about those people who determined by the surgeons and they decided they couldn't operate them? they just leaving those patients waiting for their own death...?
--Sao Tien Wang
These photos are very powerful and I'm sure what your organization does changes lives to say the least.
ReplyDeleteHow do you determine whether or not to operate on a patient? Does it rely on the resources around you or the patient's condition. Would it be possible for a patient with a serious condition to be sent back here in the United States to be operated on?
I have always been interested in medical expeditions and I was wondering if you could give me information on volunteering.
Nika Banzuela
LCAD Non-Western Culture
I would imagine that if there is very limited medical equipment there then the logistics must be difficult to accommodate these patients. It would seem to me that everything would have to be brought with you and everyone be self contained. What happens if you forget a piece of equipment or don't anticipate needing certain instruments? I suppose you would have to be able to improvise depending on the situation. I guess that's the value of being good at what you do. Being able to adapt your skills to your environment is the difference between success or failure.
ReplyDelete- Kevin Weller
Anthro 319
I am really curious to know what the real cause is for the growth on the mans head who said he was bit by something. It is eye opening to think that the type of health care I am used to would have looked into a growth like that immediately, but this man does not have that opportunity. It seems as though he is completely unaware that he could have a tumor or a disease, not a bug bite.
ReplyDelete-taylor jaquay
Does Jusu have a chance of normal funciontioning if he gets an operation? Does he also have scoliosis? It appears that he has a tumor or growth in his back. If that is removed will it relieve the paralysis in his legs?
ReplyDeleteI hope all is well over there! Im curious to see the outcomes of these patients conditions, hopefully new pictures will be able to be posted soon! good luck and a safe trip home!
ReplyDeleteAnth353
I'm looking forward to seeing these individuals after their treatments! I would really like to know more about the causes of their conditions. How did it get so extreme? Also, how does this organization determine who receives care and in what order? It truly is refreshing to see that there are still such selfless people in the world.
ReplyDeleteAngela Bui
ANTH 319 T/Th 2:00 pm
As I view these photos again, I become more and more curious of the outcomes of these individuals. I truly hope to hear good news soon.
ReplyDeleteJocelyn Martinez-Rivera
Anthro 319
It is mind-boggling that in other countries people have to suffer so much for things that are fixable, or at least can be helped, by medicine. I couldn't believe my eyes when I read that the nearest MRI machine is 3 countries away. That seems so bizarre because in the United States we have such easy access to medicine. Also, it is interesting that the cultural interpretation of having been born with a cleft lip is being related to witchcraft. I hope that you guys were able to help all of these people so that they can carry happy and healthy lives.
ReplyDeleteJordan Bauer
Anth 319 Tues/Thurs 2:00 PM
you never know that many people suffer from many disabilities. the first patients seems to be suffering from a keloid that expanded. I too suffered from keloids. i had one on each ear, and one in the middle of my chest. the ones on my ears came from piercings. i was give steroids shots in the keloids so that they would disintegrate and soon fall off. that never happened. so i had surgery. the doctors thought that radiation would also help prevent the keloids from returning. however, they did go down and weren't as big as before the radiation and surgery did help. i think that if this patients receives surgery it will help her deformity.
ReplyDeleteEbony Reado
Anthro 319
In most cases, one would think that a person with cleft lip would be treated just as any other human being. It's sad to see such a young girl be accused of performing witchcraft due to her disability. Due to their lack of resources, the girl is unable to receive help. This is an prime example of how many countries are underdeveloped. This country is underdeveloped compared to the United States where if a child here were suffering from such a drastic deformity they could easily go for aid to get surgery for the cleft lip. It is also show Cultural comparison. In her country they say that due to her deformity she's performing witchcraft where here in the united States they just view it as a birth defect. I think that by Women's for World Health helping this patients will help her so she won't have to live the rest of her life in solitude.
ReplyDelete-Ebony Reado
Anthro 319
It is very unfortunate that these people not only can not receive the treatment they need but also face prejudice because of their deformities. It is my understanding that if the constructive surgery does not take place during early childhood, that it is extremely costly to accomplish in adulthood. This may not be an option for those less fortunate than us.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I have never hear of a bug bite causing such a serious growth. I am very curious to hear what the cause turns out to be.
Kevin Jones
Anthro 319 TTh 2:00-3:15
i heard from another classmate that had you earlier this week that perhaps some of these people didnt make it....im saddened to hear it...i was really pulling for them. im very interested in hearing what happened exactly. see you in class!
ReplyDeleteEmily Sander
i never realized how common cleft lips were or how extreme they could be since i live in a culture where plastic surgery is so readily available, so it was really jarring to see these images at first! thank you for being kind enough to travel across the world and help these people who really need it the most.
ReplyDeletebryanna simpson
Anthro 319 TTh 2:00-3:15
I cannot wait to hear details about the trip. I hope you share your stories with us in class or post the information somewhere online. I hope W4WH was able to give all of these individuals a life changing gift for the holidays :)
ReplyDeleteAmanda Perry
Anthro 319
I was hoping to leave my second post after seeing some sort of update photo's. I commented earlier on my initial thoughts, hopefully your organization has made great progress during your time out there. I am hoping to hear great stories from your time out there when we see you again later today.
ReplyDeleteChris Armas
Anthro 353
When i saw these pictures i was speechless for awhile. I'm shocked and very upset that all these people have to do is just wait. I've been actually sponsoring a child through World Vision and i realize that there are so many people who need help out there and that we should focus more attention on them that they can get help. This is extremely sad and heart breaking.
ReplyDeleteJeehyun Kim
ANTH 319
I think i was more shocked because of their severeness of diseases. I've seen some people with cleft lips/palates from TV and pictures but when i saw these people they seemed strange to me. I felt like i've never seen people like them. Some of pictures are a bit scary and sad but at the same time they reminded me how blessed i am and how insignificant are my small problems. I hope all of them get help as soon as possible. I'll pray.
ReplyDeleteComing across these photographs should be life changing and it has for me. I've never realized the severity of these diseases. I really want to hear great news soon. How grateful we should all be to have an organization like this one have an impact in many people.
ReplyDeleteJocelyn Martinez-Rivera
Anthro 319
I am interested in hearing the outcome from the trip. Were the able to operate on all the patients? How have the patients' lives improved since the operation? What has the operation allowed them to do and experience that they were unable to do or experience before? Every person has a story and I think these people would have particularly fascinating stories to tell.
ReplyDeleteWill there be after picture posted? i would love to see how the operation went for all of the patients.
ReplyDeleteSusan Pham
Anthro 353 Tues/Thurs 11-12:15
I was thinking more about this organization this morning, and I'm interested to hear what you report back during class today. I hope that you were able to treat each of the patients, and I'm hoping that the first girl was able to have surgery. My heart goes out to the girl with cleft palate, who isn't able to go outside because she will be called a witch. As I said earlier, this is more and more common, and society plays such a big role in our lives. Cultural norms and deviances can really change the way you feel about yourself as well as alter th life that you lead.
ReplyDeleteHope everything went well!
Elyse Hauck
Anthro 319, Tues., Thurs. 2-3:15