Showing posts with label Volunteer in Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Volunteer in Health. Show all posts

Saturday, May 27, 2017

Anveshane - Discovering the Truth within

Anveshane is the open canvas for the interns to pen their experiences, thoughts, reflections, questions, challenges, ideas and memories.

Generally, an internship consists of an exchange of services for experience between the student and an organization. Students can also use an internship to determine if they have an interest in a particular career, create a network of contacts, or gain school credit. Some interns find permanent, paid employment with the organizations with which they interned. This can be a significant benefit to the employer as experienced interns often need little or no training when they begin regular employment. However, employment at the completion of an internship is not guaranteed.

These Internships are open to high school students, college or university students and post-graduate adults from both India and abroad. The areas of internship include Medicine, science, law, management, business, media and mass communications, technology and advertising. These are unpaid voluntary positions lasting 4 weeks to one year. 

The different types of internships include Work experience positions, including shadowing, research internships as well as virtual internships. 

All the internship programs are co-conceived methodically by the participants under guidance of their mentor Dr. Dayaprasad G Kulkarni - a medical doctor, public health specialist, entrepreneur, artist and development consultant.

To know more or to apply, write to: volunteer@aarogyaseva.org








Sunday, July 3, 2016

Maddy Bishop_VanHorn, Rwanda - Summer 2016

I recently graduated with a BSE in Biomedical Engineering from Tulane University, New Orleans and I am now in Rwanda for two months working as a Coordinator for Engineering World Health, an NGO from the US which empowers engineering students to repair medical equipment in developing countries, including Rwanda. I have experience teaching people to use 3D printers, and I am helping FAWE Gisozi Girls' Secondary School install and learn to use a Replicator printer while I am here in Rwanda.

ShashiCiddharth, Chennai, India - Summer 2016

I graduated from SRM University in Chennai, India in 2015. I have been working with an NGO that educates underprivileged kids. Working there has taught me a lot about life and how certain things I take for granted can be huge life altering thing for another person. It has truly changed my perspective on life. I want to put my education to use and do more for the world around me, that is the inspiration behind everything I do, including taking up a project with AarogyaSeva.

Seva to me means, "A commitment to my community to change it for the better in anyway I can"

Saturday, July 2, 2016

Aakash Manapat, India

I am Aakash Manapat and I have just completed my 9 th Grade at GEAR Innovative International School, Bangalore. I am a person who loves to have new experiences and am defined by my curiosity to learn as much as I can. I enjoy spending time outdoors with my friends. Swimming, playing badminton and long distance running are some activities that I really enjoy with my friends. Outdoor camping trips and hiking are my favorites. I am most happy as I learn new things, be it by reading a book or the things I see on a hiking trail. My Strengths and weaknesses: My strength lies in my thirst for knowledge and my curiosity to know more. My ability to quickly grasp concepts and learn have also pushed me to take things too easy. Debating, gathering information, logical Intelligence, Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, natural intelligence are some of my other strengths. My Interests and Hobbies: Reading, Playing badminton, long-distance running. 


Thursday, June 16, 2016

Charanya Kaushik, USA 23 May - 20 July 2016


Charanya is pursuing an MPH in Epidemiology at UTHealth in Houston, Texas. Her research interest focuses on improving healthcare access and quality for underprivileged populations. Prior to starting her MPH program, she taught high school chemistry and coached tennis with Teach for America in Harlingen, Texas. A Native of Pittsburgh, PA, Charanya graduated from Washington and Jefferson College with a double-major in Cell & Molecular Biology and Spanish. Charanya will work with Aarogya Seva for two months to investigate TB and HIV co-infection at Accept, a HIV care center on the outskirts of Bangalore.

Sunday, May 29, 2016

World No Tobacco Day 31st May


"Worldwide, more than 1 billion people use tobacco products—the only consumer products that, when used as directed, will kill half of all users. Tobacco use is the world’s leading cause of preventable death, with nearly 6 million people dying of tobacco-related diseases each year, including more than 600,000 nonsmokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke. If current trends persist, tobacco will kill more than 8 million people each year by 2030—80 percent of them in the developing world.”  

(Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, http://www.gatesfoundation.org/What-We-Do/Global-Policy/Tobacco-Control)


31st May marks World No Tobacco Day which has been recognised since the late 80s.  This year’s theme is a push for plain packaging to be adopted by tobacco products.

I am proud to say that Australia were the first and have had cigarette packing without logos, large warnings and graphic images of tobacco related diseases since 2012.  This coupled with 25% increase in taxes on tobacco products in 2010 has worked to reduced the Australia's daily smoking rate among those over 14 to 12.8% between 2010 and 2013 from 15.1%.  




On April 1 the Indian government mandated that 85% of cigarette pack surface would need to be covered in health warnings up from 20%.   I understand that there are some implementation issues being worked.   It is noted however that there is limited and low legislation with regards the the smoking of bidis which accounts for 85% of all smoked tobacco in India.  Unfortunately bidis are not only cheap (average 4 rupees per pack), readily available everywhere but also contain more nicotine than regular cigarettes.

So does the size of warnings on packs matter?  It definitely increase the percentage of people thinking about quitting smoking. 



The amount of people actually taking the step to actually quit is another matter but I feel that at least thinking about quitting is the first step. 

One of the methods being used by WHO in the fight against smoking will be the use of the documentary "Addiction Incorporated”.  It is a film that documented the first ever USA federal regulation of the tobacco industry.  A trailer of the film is here.

If you’re thinking about quitting consider doing with with a Doctor as your chances improve 84% following intensive counselling.  Quitting is not easy but the benefits are worth it. Once we have our clinic up and running, feel free to drop by and chat to one of our doctors. 



Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of AarogyaSeva and AarogyaSeva does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

To get in touch with the author or to join our team write to us at – Volunteer@aarogyaseva.org



Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Inauguration of Mahabodhi Aarogyaseva Kendra


Today was the Inauguration of our free medical clinic Mahabodhi Aarogyaseva Kendra.

It has taken a long time and much help.  The foundation stone for the centre was first laid in 2012.

It was a beautiful ceremony with blessings and speeches.




In attendance was
  • Venerable Kassapa Mahathera President, MBS
  • Sri Ramalinga Reddy, Honourable Minister of Transport Government of Karnataka
  • Dr Ravi Gopal Verma, Lead Consultant of Neurosciences, Aster CMI Hospital, former Prof and Head of Dept of Neurosurgery MS Ramaiah Medical College 
  • Monks from Mahabodhi Society 

Following the blessing we were honoured to begin our free medical camp led by Dr K B Lingegowda and Dr Ravi

Here are first pictures of patients being seen:



The Mahabodhi Meditation Centre was also inaugurated today.  This is co-located/ upstairs from the clinic.




As was spoken of by our guests, we hope that this is the beginning of centres which combine holistic view of treatment including brain and mind.  Without treating the other would be incomplete.





This was following by a delicious lunch provided by Mahabodhi Society.

Please come down and see the clinic and meditation centre when you get the chance.

We are also keen for more volunteers so if you have some time this summer please get in touch.

Also we note that Maha Bodhi Society has their 2560th Sacred Buddha Jayanti Celebrations on right now with activities planned all week.  This includes
  • Cancer Patients Service Day on 17th May from Noon at Dharmashala Kidwai Institute of Oncology 
  • One Day Children's Dhamma Camp on 18th May from 9am to 4pm at Maha Bodhi Auditorium Maha Bodhi Society 
  • Burns Patient Service Day on 19th May from 3:30pm at Medical Education Seminar Hall Victoria Hospital 
  • Animal Service Day on 20th July from 10am at People for Animals Kengeri
  • Vesakha Sacred Buddha Purnima Day on 21st July from 9am at Mahabodhi Loka Shanti Buddha Vihara
If you have the chance we invite you to join in the above festivities. 


Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of AarogyaSeva and AarogyaSeva does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.


To get in touch with the author or to join our team write to us at – Volunteer@aarogyaseva.org









Monday, April 25, 2016

Justin Kochanski, USA - 6 April - 18 May 2016

I graduated from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa this past May. Originally from Chicago, IL, I attended university to study Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology with a concentration in Global and Comparative Public Health. I've worked many odd jobs to help pay for school– pathology technician, oncology laboratory assistant, and junior epidemiologist at the state department, just to name a few. 

My experience from these jobs, along with my compassion for social justice and philanthropy, has led me to pursue a career in medicine. I will start medical school this coming August, with the intent of working in some sort of global health setting after graduation. I strongly believe that health is a fundamental human right, and I want to work to help secure and promote that right throughout the world. 

Seva to me means "A commitment to humanity and dedication to justice, pursuing what is just."

When I am not studying, you can find me on the soccer pitch, rock climbing, or backpacking!

Friday, April 1, 2016

What's Toby Up to These Days?


Remember Toby Lamp who volunteered with us last year? 


Toby is a Registered Nurse from Indiana USA with over 4 years experience as ER Trauma Tech, Medical Support Assistant and LPN.  He has a big smile and lots of energy.

After spending a month in India followed by 2 months in Nepal post the Earthquakes he was inspired to cycle across America to raise awareness and funds for AarogyaSeva, Nepal and Chennai.   It was a massively inspiring effort and we thank him for his contribution.

So what's Toby up to these days? 

He's back in US working as an ER/ICU nurse for Dupont Hospital.  In his spare time he is keen to raise awareness on health issues and is looking to run for Congress.  Toby is also who connected us to our current crowd funding campaign on female hygiene kits.  Thanks for bringing this to our attention! 

To find out more on what Toby is up to: Toby Lamp 
To donate to our crowdfunding campaign: Donate Here


Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of AarogyaSeva and AarogyaSeva does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.


To get in touch with the author or to join our team write to us at – Volunteer@aarogyaseva.org








Tuesday, March 22, 2016

World Tuberculous Day 24th March



Did you know Tuberculous (TB) ranks alongside HIV as a leading killer worldwide? 

I noticed it was World Tuberculous Day this Thursday and did a little research on it and was surprised and shocked by the findings particularly as this is a completely preventable and curable disease.

Every day over 4,000 people are dying from TB which is horrendously unacceptable especially when it is a curable disease.   This includes 383 children a day. It is among top 5 causes of deaths for women between 15-44.

According to UN Global Tuberculous Report the worldwide incidence has fallen 1.5% per year since 2000 for a total reduction of 18% and still in 2014 1.5 million people died from TB.  In 2014 9.6 million people fell ill with TB.

Photo Credit: World Health Organisation Global Tuberculous Report 2015
Yet it is not all bad news, we have made much progress with the death rate 47% lower than it was in 1990 and an estimated 43 million people saved between 2000-2015.

54% of the world’s TB cases occurred in China, India, Indonesia, Nigeria and Pakistan though there is a significant gap in diagnosis of TB.

So just what is TB?  

It is a bacterial infection which most often affects the lungs spread through the air.  Scarily about 1/3 of the world’s population has latent TB which means that they have the disease but are not yet ill and cannot transmit the disease.  However there is a 10% risk of falling ill with TB which increases for those with compromised immune systems such as those who are HIV positive, are malnourished or use tobacco.

Without treatment 45% of HIV negative people and nearly all HIV positive people with TB will die.   In 2013 86% of people who were treated fro TB were cured. 

Photo Credit: World Health Organisation

Why is there a TB day? 

World TB Day is the opportunity to raise awareness about the burden of TB and also provide an update on the status of TB prevention and treatment. 

Included in the UN Sustainable Development Goals is the aim to reduce TB incidence by 80% and TB deaths by 90% as well as the burden of the disease on the family by 2030.

Photo Credit: World Health Organisation 

Challenges of TB

  • symptoms of TB (cough with sputum and blood, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, ever and night sweats) can present mildly for several months which leads to treatment delays and continual spread of TB to the community
  • The length of treatment is from 6 months to up to 2 years which do not come without side effects leading to low adherence rates
  • Access to and cost of diagnosis and treatment hinders prevention and treatment
  • The emergence of not only Multi Drug Resistance TB (MDR-TB) but also Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) where both first and second line medicines fail to work

What can we do? 

  • Enourage family and friends who have the symptoms of TB to see a Dr
  • Support those on TB treatment to continue the entire course
  • Donating to The Global Fund which will lead to additional research to improve access to and diagnosis and treatment of TB (as well as AIDS and Malaria). There is an estimated $1.3 Billion Dollar shortfall. Donate here
  • Ensure children in India and other countries at risk are vaccinated against TB
  • Listen to World TB Day 2016 To be continued 24 hour music event About World TB 2016 24 hour Music Event  Listen to the Event here
Photo Credit: WHO Global Tuberculous Report 2015

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of AarogyaSeva and AarogyaSeva does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

To get in touch with the author or to join our team write to us at – Volunteer@aarogyaseva.org

Sunday, February 7, 2016

2016 AIPNO Medical Yatra

 

As was previously noted, Aarogyaseva was again part of 2016 Medical Yatra in Gujarat which ran from 23rd January to 30th January in connection with the following organisations
  • Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO)
  • Action Research in Community Health (ARCH)
  • Rotary Club of Dharampur 
  • Shabri Chhatralaya
  • Intal

It brought 37 both medical professionals and general volunteers from USA, UK, India and Australia in conjunction with local health workers, Rotarians and ARCH workers.  We had with us a mix of internal/family doctors, emergency physicians, paediatricians, obstetrics/gynaecologists, dentists and an orthopaedic surgeon.  Apart from seeing the patients we also conducted CPR and dental hygiene education sessions as well as have patients take part in blood pressure research.


AIPNO was founded in 1983 and is a non-profit membership organisation of physicians of Indian origin in Northern Ohio. It has membership of 300 physicians and have they organised Medical Yatras since 2001.  They have provided aid to Mexico, Haiti, Peru, Ecuador, Uganda, Kenya, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Burundi and India. What is amazing is that the volunteers who came were in the late 60s and 70s who were either semi retired or retired.  Visit their website http://www.aipno.org/ for more information

ARCH currently provides provides primary health care services to approximately 25,000 patients along with basic health education and preventative services such as vaccinations and prenatal care. In addition they provide movie health camps in surrounding villages.  More about them can be found here: http://www.archgujarat.org/ 

We were split into 2 groups each visiting 5 locations over 5 days seeing up to 1,000 patients daily and ~4,000 patients in total. (The exact numbers are still to be finalised.)  People came from nearby villages and waited patiently for several hours to be seen. At each spot we spent 4-8 hours depending on the number of patients that presented.   For some of us we stepped into unfamiliar roles of dental, paediatric, gynaecology or pharmacy assistants, whilst others had to recall prior knowledge to diagnose, prescribe and dispense medications.   All of us had to improvise with limited supplies and diagnostic tools whilst working in a team to provide the best possible outcome.

Each stop was unique with a different variety of diagnosis and facilities. On some days it took us only about 30 minutes to get there and on others over 90 minutes across dirt roads. The majority of time we were situated within the local school which meant the kids had a disruptive day and were free to interact with the group, be seen by paediatricians or dentists and/or attend educational sessions being run. Regardless of where we were, the locals were all very welcoming and patient. It was heartwarming to see some of the older children assist with translation, directing people and/or helping the older patients to where they needed to go. 




Undernutrition was massive problem with 14-16 year old teenagers looking like they were 9-10 years old. The adults on the other hand looked much older than they should be due to physical outdoor labour with in many cases extremely high blood sugars and blood pressures. 

Language was a massive issue with local tribal languages being spoken in many instances as opposed to Gujarati or Hindi which become a case requiring up to 3 interpreters sometimes depending on the translator and Doctor.   


Observations

  • all who came were strong, happy and didn’t complain about the wait or their lot in life with physical examinations easy due to the lack of fat (many of those in their 40s/50s had six pack abs!) 
  • Biggest issues were undernutrition, undiagnosed hypertension, diabetes, goitres, cataracts, dry skin and cavities 
  • Introduction of fluoride, reduced salt and sugar diets and iodised salt would greatly assist these communities as part of preventable health schemes  
  • Girls were particularly shy with all being curious particularly around the tall Americans, our smart phones and cameras 
Outcomes from 2016 Medical Yatra
  • Recommendations to reduce cavities and improve teeth health particularly in children to be provided to local government officials 
  • ARCH has committed to follow up patients seen including scheduling of 33 cataract surgeries 
  • A piece for AJ+ (on online news and current events channel by Al Jazeera Media Network AJMN) is being finalised.  







All of us came with open hearts, warm smiles, positive and flexible attitudes and a sense of humour but left with so much more.  We have much to learn from each other and language is not a barrier.


I would highly recommend going on Medical Yatra as it is so much more than volunteering with an amazing bunch of people and seeing the countryside and interacting with the locals in a unique way as it includes component of spirituality as we stayed at Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur and were even fortunate enough to have an audience with Baba Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshbhai.  More about the Ashram and their work is here: http://www.shrimadrajchandramission.org/

More photos are available here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1582019118687142.1073741860.1384301005125622&type=1&l=4335feceba 

Number of Doctors: 14 including 2 dentists
Total number of volunteers: 37
Number of patients seen: ~4000
Number of sites visited: 10 

Volunteer hours (based on average 6 hour day for 37 volunteers) : 1110 hours