It is one month since the April 25 earthquake in Nepal. The loss of lives and the devastation caused by the earthquakes in April and two weeks later in May will undoubtedly continue to impact the region for years to come.
Within hours of the first quake, Galilee Medical Center (GMC) was already making plans to deploy three highly trained medical delegates to Nepal with the IDF Field Hospital: Dr. Tsvi Sheleg (GMC Assistant Director), Dr. Gil Dinur (Neonatologist) and Dr. Michael Mrianovsky (Anesthesiologist).
Dr. Sheleg reflected on his experience working in past aid operations. He took part in the IDF medical aid mission to Haiti following that nation’s 2010 earthquakes. “(In Haiti) I experienced the unimaginable impact of the disaster…I am proud to once again represent Israel.” Dr. Gil Dinur added “It’s a privilege and a humanitarian responsibility for the IDF to take part in these purely humanitarian missions. This is the basis of our medical education – to reduce suffering and save lives.” Just last December, the IDF Field Hospital worked in cooperation with GMC in a unique drill to prepare for potential massive earthquakes.
The final numbers officially reported from the IDF Field Hospital’s medical aid mission to Nepal were as follows:
- 1,600 people treated
- 85 surgeries performed
- eight births (two c-sections)
The earthquakes claimed 5,100 lives and caused 11,500 injuries.
The Israeli Field Hospital was officially closed on May 10 but many of its medical supplies and medicine were handed over to Nepali medical institutions. Galilee Medical Center is proud to have been part of the efforts of first responders and keeps the people of Nepal in our hearts.