As a very fortunate person and a medical professional, I have always felt that I can do more than just serve my patients. Seven years ago, with the help of Rush Global Health, I found a project that has become very dear to my heart. Every year since, I have traveled to either Dominican Republic or Haiti to offer surgical aid to the people of impoverished villages.
Immediately after the 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti in January of 2010, I made 2 trips down there to offer my assistance by leading the reconstructive surgical team. The medical services were severely broken after the earthquake with over 50 health care facilities completely destroyed and over 300,000 people in need of medical attention. There was such a great need for medical assistance that it was an easy decision to make.
This year, however, I am headed back to the Dominican Republic as the team lead for the surgical staff. Our main focus of the trip is to perform cleft lip and palate surgeries, as well as, pediatric head and neck surgeries in Peralta, in the Azua province of Dominican Republic. Peralta is located in the mountains of the south west corner of Dominican Republic, with a population of only 7,200 people. Because of the basic and minimal access to medical aid, Peralta area is noted for congenital pediatric malformations. My trip to Peralta will start on November 8th, 2014 and will conclude on November 16th, 2014.
If you are interested in getting involved or donating to the cause contact me, Dr. Dutton, at the Midwest Facial Plastic Surgery Center website or visit the Rush Global Health Program website.
