January 28, 2005

MGHers embark on a mission of mercy

Anticipation and excitement filled the Sweet Conference Room Jan. 24 when a group of 25 nurses, 14 physicians, two social workers and a nutritionist from throughout the hospital gathered to prepare for their journey to Southeast Asia to help the victims of the tsunami disaster. This group (shown below) is traveling as part of Project HOPE, an organization that is coordinating the deployment of health care professionals to provide medical support for the military personnel who are already serving in the relief effort.

Larry Ronan, MD, director of the MGH Durant Fellowship, and Susan Briggs, MD, director of the MGH International Trauma and Disaster Institute, spoke to the group about what to expect on the ship and what supplies to bring. Ronan and Briggs suggested the group stock up on sunscreen and bug spray, and — since each person is responsible for carrying their own bag — pack as lightly as possible, keeping their bags under 70 pounds. They should also bring a long-sleeve shirt and sunglasses, requirements to fly in a helicopter, which will be a possible mode of transportation once they arrive. Ed Ryan, MD, of the MGH Infectious Disease Unit, spoke to the group about the immunizations that would be required for the trip.

Peter L. Slavin, MD, president of the MGH, and Jeanette Ives Erickson, RN, MS, senior vice president for Patient Care Services and chief nurse, each made brief remarks thanking the group for their valiant volunteerism. "I am proud that of the 100 volunteers going on this mission, almost half are from the MGH," said Slavin. "On behalf of the hospital, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

Despite snowy conditions, the MGH team left Boston Jan. 26 on three flights to Baltimore where Project HOPE's headquarters is located. In Baltimore, the group will spend two days in training for the mission. The group will then spend four weeks in the hardest-hit areas bringing medical attention and much-needed hope to the survivors of this unprecedented international tragedy.