Bangladesh

Bangladesh 2007 Images by Bruce Byers

Bangladesh Healing the Children May 2007 mission with Dr. Aziz In May 2007 I documented a medical mission for Healing the Children in Bangladesh lead by Dr. Shahid Aziz and his team of doctors and nurses. Once in Bangladesh, the team operated in partnership with Impact Foundation Bangladesh repairing cleft lips and palates on impoverished children in rural areas of the country.

The mission was a complete success. Within the first week, the team operated on over 30 children at Impact's medical center in Chuadanga, in the northeastern part of Bangladesh. During the second week, the team worked at the Impact Jibon Tari Floating Hospital moored at Sirajganj. They operated on an additional 36 children during their five-day stay at the hospital.

Cleft lips and palates represent far more than a deformed face. Many superstitions are associated with these birth defects, which brings great psychological and emotional trauma to the children and their families.

Most of the children spend years hidden from view. The good works of Healing the Children and Impact Foundation have made it possible for many of these compromised children to live new lives. The effects of these operations are priceless to children and even more profound for their families.

This mission has repeatedly demonstrated the far-reaching healing powers that a few dedicated doctors can have on children who have so very little hope. Your donations to Healing the Children makes it possible for missions like this to flourish and grow.

We need your support and ask that you spread the word on our behalf to your friends and families to donate their resources or their time. For more information and to made a donation, visit www.htcne.org As a photographer I found great pleasure in creating these images as my way to spread the word about the great need for help.

Email: byers@brucebyers.com Phone: 212-585-3928 www.brucebyers.com All images registered and copyrighted Š Bruce Byers Photography 2007

This book is dedicated to: Akbar Hussain

It was great to have met so many people while documenting the medical mission to Bangladesh.

One person who I am sure we will all remember is Shahid's uncle Akbar, who we all met and knew for a very short time.

Our prayers continue for Shahid and his family.

The medical team on the Impact Jibon Tari Floating Hospital moored at Sirajganj

The medical team at Impact's medical center in Chuadanga

Our Leader.... Dr. Shahid Aziz

Saying thank you in Bengali