For two weeks in May, two members of the Ocala Heart Institute – which partners with Martin Memorial to provide open-heart surgery at the Frances Langford Heart Center – will be taking their life-saving skills to India.
Dr. Michael Crouch, a cardiothoracic surgeon, and Dale Ruby, who operates the heart-lung bypass machine at the heart center, will be part of a team providing heart surgery for patients who might not otherwise have access to the proper care.
During their trip, Dale and Dr. Crouch will periodically post blogs discussing their adventures.
May 13, 2009
Hello again from India!
Surgery went well again today. We operated on a woman who had advanced-stage heart disease and had no money or insurance. She was refused surgery earlier due to lack of money, but we were able to operate on her at no charge.
We brought many supplies with us, including heart valves, and the hospital accepted this as payment for her stay. Tomorrow we have one more cardiac surgery scheduled, then return to Florida.
It has been incredible to see the poverty here in this part of India. I will post pictures when I get back since I cannot download them on this computer. I am at an Internet cafe and it is so hot and dirty here. I am really lucky to find any computer at all. It is such a blessing to be able to share our love to these people who are so far removed from modern life.
Most people here have never seen people from other countries in their life. I get many curious stares from people every morning as I walk to the hospital, but I enjoy helping here where it is truly needed.
Regards,
Dale Ruby
1 comment:
Great job Dale. Proud to be partners with you and Martin Memorial.....Jeff Crick D.O.
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