August 2012- Paul Roldan
Post date: Jul 24, 2012 1:12:47 PM
Fundraising for Nepal
One of the shortcomings of the healthcare system in Nepal is its inability to reach the poor and disadvantaged regions, therefore not being able to provide affordable access to health services. Research has shown that amongst the poorest of these groups, only 2.6% of their income is spent on Health services as they are unable to divert their incomes away from basic necessities (WHO; 2007).
Last September, when I heard about a group of student respiratory therapists going to Nepal to do some charity work, I was strongly inspired by their intentions and I wanted to do something for their cause (not being able to finance the trip myself). Having worked at a hospital, specifically with the central supplies department, I lobbied the managers of these departments regarding the donation of some unused, packaged equip
ment that is usually disposed of according to different protocols (i.e. VRE outbreaks, Monthly Inventory, Product switches). I was shocked to hear that they just "throw it out". Thousands of dollars, I thought, just being tossed away. I realized an opportunity to relocate these products to Nepal. So, I spoke to Infection Control, to the group going to Nepal and to my union representative to see if the equipment was safe, if they were willing to transport it to Nepal and to try to get other hospitals involved. Up to date, I've raised more equipment then the group can bring on their trip, and the contributions are still forthcoming. The responses from the hospitals involved has been spectacular and I appreciate their charity despite their wishes to stay anonymous.When I was asked to write about my contribution for the website, my intent was to write this article in a formal style, from a third person perspective. I realized in a matter of minutes that in doing so, I would be laying emphasis on the deed instead of the intention. The deed is simple; raise medical equipment. But the intent is much more important and profoundly more interesting; inspire future members to similar acts and ideas. To lay the groundwork for future RTs and SRTs that want to experience a trip across the globe and put into practice things we’ve learned from our small community.
My personal intentions were simple: to be part of this cause, to help those when it is in my power to do so and to ultimately motivate others to do the same. The incentive to give is different for everyone but all persons involved share the same joy of giving.
Special thanks to Clement Hui for letting me take part in their endeavors and Nigel Siu. for assisting me sort through the myriad of equipment.
-Paul Roldan
