AHHA Newsletter Issue 19 Jan-Dec 2019

NEWSLETTER

Issue 19. January - December 2019

AHHA INITIATIVE

Clean Water Saves Lives

EDITOR’S WORDS

charity newsletter brought to you by the volunteer editors of AHHA. We would like to share with you our work and milestones achieved by our volunteers, partners, and supporters over this year.

Since its inception in 2003, AHHA has committed itself to help the needy by providing them with ophthalmic, medical, dental, training and humanitarian aid. Our mission is to provide humanitarian services to relieve

! " # # #

underprivileged with dignity and respect, to enable them to look after themselves and the people around them.

I invite you all to learn more about AHHA by visiting www.ahha.org.au and follow us on AHHA Facebook www.facebook.com/AustralianHealthHumanitarianAid to see what we are up to.

We are excited and encourage you to leaf through $ sponsorships, volunteer stories, fundraising activities, news, and the gorgeous photo gallery. % & " contributors and writers of this newsletter. I really appreciate the way they put their heart and soul in ' ( # our dedicated volunteers. And not to forget, the personal

&)

* work goes beyond political or geographical boundaries and focuses on very real and human aspects of making a positive impact.

I believe there is something for everyone in this issue

" $ " ) + '

* # share with your friends.

Best, Stephanie Wong

Photo Courtesy: Ms Tanya Anhtuan Mr Phi Nguyen Mr Steven Nguyen Ms Joanne Pham Mr Ted Mlynarz Dr Daniel Kim Mr Loc Cung Ms Khanh Tien Truong

2 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

Letter from the Chairman Writer Dr William Trinh

2019 has been an amazing year for AHHA. We are so blessed that everything has gone so well according to our plans. By all

#

* " &

nor simple but full of challenges. We do not have a single paid ' # " # ! " #

HIGHLIGHTS many of AHHA volunteers.

Our annual mission to Phnom Penh in

#

*

" &) ;

report from our CEO Mr Ted Mlynarz.

Our dedicated eye team managed

# " surgeries at the Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital to help the poor and blind.

Medicines and prescription spectacles were also provided. Over one thousand of complicated dental procedures were provided by our dedicated dental team to the special population of children with severe disability or disadvantaged at the dental clinic of University Puthysatra. Ophthalmology and training were provided to local doctors and students. Dental, surgical supplies and instruments were also donated to local

) and food parcels were also distributed to thousands of poor families in the remote villages.

of the underprivileged through many of # $ ) I had the honour in March this year to travel to a small village in Kampong Chhnang which is about four hour drive from Phnom Penh, Cambodia to work with a group of dedicated volunteers from Australia and Vietnam to provide medical services and eye screening

") % after this mission, AHHA management has realised that there are much more immediate medical need for this community that AHHA can assist. A ! & '

' a multi-purpose building to house future education and health services for the

community with increased population due to Cambodian government migration -

Tonle Sap Lake to land. The building was completed and opened on 28th 45 $ #

medical mission this year. Special thanks must go to Ms Thuy Nguyen, Sister Maria Dang, Father Stepanus Winarto and Mr 6 7 # ' $ ) Hundreds of poor families had their medical examined by our volunteer doctors and nurses. Medicines were dispensed by our pharmacists. Eye exams were provided and prescription spectacles were dispensed by our optometrists. Logistics was arranged by

Our organisation and our charity work exist simply because of the generosity and dedication of our volunteers, our donors and local partners. So we are very grateful to your continued support.

I would like to specially thank our management committee members for their hard work and commitment to

$ #

mission but also tirelessly raising fund throughout the year, HE Sean Ngu with Khmer Sight Foundation volunteers, HE Serey Chea with National Bank # < ' + ; Sisowath Tesso, Prof Meng Ngy , Dr Chhour Long of Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital, Prof Callum Durward with Dental clinic of university Puthysatra volunteers, Dr Theavy, Ms Socheta ; # % < 6 6

6 ! = & volunteers.

Finally, I would like to wish you and your family a happy holiday season and prosperous, healthy New Year.

Kind regards Dr William Trinh Chairman

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 3

Phnom Penh Results Medical / Eye Examinations

766 Patients including distribution of Medicine, Prescription Glasses and Sunglasses

Cataract Surgeries

504 Writers Mr Ted Mlynarz & Dr William Trinh

â&#x20AC;&#x153;An Act of Kindness Changes Livesâ&#x20AC;?

It has been seventeen years since Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA), previously known as Vietnam @ ; $ ' &

" people of Vietnam. Since then the area of operations have expanded to providing aid to poor and displaced people in Cambodia.

With every act of kindness by our volunteers, donors and supporters, a human life is improved.

On Saturday 17th August 2019, around eighty volunteers from Australia and New Zealand gathered in Phnom Penh, Cambodia to begin the 2019 AHHA Mission to provide free Medical Examinations, Eye Surgery, Dental Procedures and Humanitarian Services to poor and needy people in Cambodia.

Dental Procedures

505 Disadvantaged Children resulting in over

1000 Procedures Humanitarian Services at three isolated villages outside Phnom Penh

900 Families Received a Water Filter System, 10kg Bag of Rice and equivalent of US$10.00 each

During the previous year patients were screened and selected by volunteers from AHHA and our Cambodian partners, Khmer Sight Foundation (KSF), who visited isolated villages outside Phnom Penh selecting patients in need of eye surgery and dental treatment.

In Phnom Penh, over a period of six days, the following was achieved:

4 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

The eye team worked at the Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital while the dental team operated from the University of Puthisastra, Dental Clinic.

Seminars relating to cataract and dental procedures were held at the Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital and the University of Puthisastra in Phnom Penh respectively, providing the latest information to local medical professionals. Both seminars were well attended and enthusiastically received.

A ceremony at the Ophthalmology Clinic of the Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital was held on Tuesday 27th August 2019 to acknowledge and thank AHHA for donations of much needed eye/ " !

Phaco Machine, a Zeiss Master Machine

* X

" [ Program.

Isolated villages outside of Phnom Penh were visited for distribution of Water \ + ' ) These are Tach and Phsa Chhnang along the Tonle Sap river with people ' - on the water. The people from these villages are extremely poor and every contribution from AHHA was gratefully accepted.

Following the completion of operations in Phnom Penh, from 26th to 29th August 2019, a small group of AHHA volunteers travelled to Kampong Chhnang to visit the isolated village of Sinok Tru where desperately poor people survive from day to day with barely a bowl of rice to eat each day. The visit provided medical and eye examinations as well as distribution of medicine, prescription & 5& ' # )

HIGHLIGHTS

2019 Field Trip

Newsletter • Issue 19 • January - December 2019 | 5

Over one and a half days the following services were provided:

Kampong Chhnang Results

Medical Examinations

360 Eye Tests

154 including distribution of Prescription Glasses and Sunglasses

Cataract Surgeries

34 Gynaecology Treatments

145 Humanitarian Services

600 families Received a Water Filter System, 10kg Bag of Rice and equivalent of US$10.00 each On the 28th August 2019 a ceremony # ^ # a building at Sinok Tru village, Kampong Chhnang Province. The construction of the building, as a community centre, '"

by AHHA and will be used to provide medical services and health education to improve community health care.

AHHA would like to acknowledge the following supporters who made the August 2019 Mission possible:

â&#x20AC;˘ Dr Theavy, Ms Socheta Por and # % < ` % Friendship Hospital.

â&#x20AC;˘ + ; % [

â&#x20AC;˘ Professor Callum Durward, Dr Serebot, Dr Bunhay and students and

_ < j " # Puthisastra.

â&#x20AC;˘ Cambodian Ministry of Health â&#x20AC;˘ Professor Meng Ngy, Dr Seiha Do, _ 7 <

`

Soviet Friendship Hospital. â&#x20AC;˘ HE Mr Sean Ngu and volunteers of Khmer Sight Foundation. â&#x20AC;˘ HE Ms Serey Chea and volunteers of Cambodia National Bank.

6 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

â&#x20AC;˘ Father Stepanus Winarto of Kampong Chhnang Parish. â&#x20AC;˘ Sister Maria Dang and volunteers of Sinok Tru village, Kampong Chhnang Province. â&#x20AC;˘ AHHA volunteers, donors and supporters.

HIGHLIGHTS

Chris Hayes MP Federal Member for Fowler Parliamentary Speech

I take this opportunity to congratulate a remarkable organisation in my community, Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA) on completing their 2019 Mission.

AHHA is a team of dedicated doctors, optometrists, dentists and volunteers, who regularly travel to Cambodia to treat the poor and those who are unable to obtain medical treatment.

Following extensive planning and fundraising, in August of this year, a team of 105 AHHA volunteers travelled to Phnom Penh, to perform medical procedures for the disadvantaged and needy in Cambodia.

With the help of their in-country partners, the Khmer Sight Foundation, treatment was provided to hundreds of patients.

The Eye, Medical and Dental Teams operated from a local hospital and university. Patients came from far and wide. Waiting rooms were full with patients being prepared for eye surgery or dental procedures.

The AHHA team also travelled to remote villages to provide medical examinations and treatment. In addition to the medical and dental treatments, general

humanitarian assistance was rendered.

This has always been a key aspect of

"

the main motivation being to improve the living conditions of the poor and disadvantaged. ` # # # 45

) Due to the dedication of AHHA and their team of volunteers, volunteers, many Cambodians now have a new lease on life, a real future where they can once more, be active and productive members of their village or community and regain their self-esteem.

During the 2019 mission, AHHA provided 766 eye examinations, 504 cataract surgeries and 1000 dental procedures to over 505 disadvantaged children. The Humanitarian Aid team also provided

to over 900 families in three isolated villages outside of Phnom Penh. [ " * "

#

Community Centre at Chhnok Tru village, in Kampong Chhnang Province, about 125 km from Phnom Penh. I note that this was an initiative that was completely funded and constructed by AHHA.

A ceremony was held and attended by Father Stepanus Winarto of Kampong Chhnang Province Catholic Parish, Sister Maria Dang of the local church, Dr William Trinh, Chairman of AHHA and many AHHA and local volunteers on 28 August 2019, to formally open the new community centre. [ '

4|5 }

consulting rooms, will be used to provide health care, education and community services to the growing population of twenty thousand underprivileged. There are plans for AHHA and other foreign NGOs to provide ongoing support to assist the poor community.

Although, we are not immune to health issues here in Australia, most of us are fortunate to have the information and resources that allow for early detection and appropriate treatment. Many people around the world are not as fortunate.

This is why the work conducted by AHHA is so important.

On this note, I would like to acknowledge Dr William Trinh and his dedicated team for their involvement in the AHHA & #

better in our world.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 7

New AHHA Community Centre Writer Mr Ted Mlynarz

AHHA Community Centre at Chhnok Tru village, near Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Chhnang province, Cambodia was completely funded and constructed by AHHA in August, 2019. A ceremony was held and attended by Father Stepanus Winarto of Kampong Chhnang Catholic Parish, Sister Maris Dang, Dr William Trinh and many AHHA volunteers on 28/8/19 to open new community ) [ 4|5 }

will be used to provide health care, education and community services to the growing population of twenty thousand underprivileged.

8 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

HIGHLIGHTS

Humanitarian Work 2019 Writers Ms Thuy Nguyen & Mr Ted Mlynarz

Last year, thousands of families in Kampong Chhnang were forced to move onto the shore after many years of living and establishing in their - ") [

# electricity, no clean water, and are lack of basic living facilities.

The AHHA team was made aware about these people living conditions '" " trip to this area in March.

Together, 28 Volunteers from Australia, Cambodia and Vietnam have achieved: 589 GP examinations and treated cases, 301 gynaecology treatments, 62 eye tests and distributed 1000 food parcels (each valued about $25).

Witnessing the hardship these people have been enduring, AHHA organisation decided to lend a helping hand and fundraise to build a community centre located next to the local church in Kampong Chhnang.

Newsletter Ne N ew wssle lett tter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue Issssue ue 19 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January Jan Ja nu u uar arry - December a Decemb De mb be err 2019 20 01 19 | 9 19

work still ne

# ) The last location was at the church in <

&[ Â&#x201E;55 assembled and distributed.

[ ' $ June 2019. After completion of the trip in Phnom Penh, a smaller team of 19 volunteers from AHHA together with the 10 volunteers from Vietnam & Cambodia travelled to work in this newly built community centre. In 2 days work, the team has achieved: â&#x20AC;˘ 360 GP examinations and treated cases â&#x20AC;˘ 145 gynaecology treatments â&#x20AC;˘ 154 eye tests Apart from the medical services, the AHHA team also distributed nearly 1300 ) Â # " 5& # Â&#x201A;5 555 Â&#x192; ! about $17) and sunglasses. Lubricant eye drops and pain relief tablets were also distributed.

' # Â&#x201A; ) [ ' < 7 * - ) 7 "

' 455 ) [ " ' # Â&#x201E;5 ) After lunch, we headed to Tachi &CumpungT.sat villages which were 2 hours away by bus. There was no sheltered area for distribution so we

' Â&#x2026;55 the sun.

The third place was in Phsach Chnnang.

It was not much better than the second place. it was still very hot and also lacked a suitable sheltered area for distribution.

We assembled and distributed over 300

10 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

The AHHA team also assigned young local volunteers to visit these families and follow up to see if they have problems with usage and maintenance.

We want to ensure the recipients use it " ' out of this unit. We do believe clean

! " # # prevent the preventable diseases such as cholera, salmonella etc.

*

' <;+ given by Doctor Tram Nguyen for 15 young local volunteers. We are planning to continue our health education program throughout the year for the general public in this centre. Lots of work still needs to be done for this community. PLEASE HELP US TO HELP THEM!

HIGHLIGHTS

Writers Ms Thuy Nguyen & Mr Ted Mlynarz

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Newsletter • Issue 19 • January - December 2019 | 11

Vertical Farming

The drums also convert food waste in their centre housing to create organic fertiliser, which further enriches the soil.

Writers Mr Charles Hili & Ms Trudy Ho

_

45 nine drums were delivered to the church in Sinok Tru, where AHHA had recently built a community centre. Initially, the plan is to trial the drums and then roll more out to the local community so each family can grow their own organic vegetables. This has great potential to sustain the community. In the long term it can also create a commercial side industry using surplus food produced to sell to the local markets in Phnom Penh, where people are willing to pay a bit more for organic produce.

It is a place like no other, the Cambodian village of Sinok Tru, a three-hour drive north of Phnom Penh to Kampong Chhnang, and then a bumpy, dusty forty #

# [ [ % + ) convenience stores, no fast food outlets, no transport system, town water or sanitary infrastructure. The families here

- & from the environmentally threatened Tonle Sap Lake and relocated to land. [ " ! " # water.

source of sustenance, access to clean water and most importantly crops for harvest is scarce. Those that do not have land to cultivate crops do not have much money to purchase either. Enter the vertical drum farming method.

What is it? Vertical farming is the

practice of growing produce in vertically stacked layers. The practice can use soil, hydroponic or aeroponic growing methods. Vertical farms produce food in challenging environments such as the one that exists in Sinok Tru. AHHA member, Trudy Ho, who has seen

" # # of her volunteer missions, forwarded a

$ Sinok Tru. The Vertical Growth Drum (VGD) is a self-sustainable food growing system designed by Joshua Chua, an engineer.

It began in Cambodia, but has now expanded to Australia, Bhutan, India, Malaysia, Philippines and Nepal.

Each drum occupies 0.6m x 0.6m area and can produce 100 vegetables ! 4 ( 4 ) Â&#x201A; ( Â&#x201A; )

12 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

' # @ _ the employment it creates for those who are building the drums for community use. It also gives the people of the village # # # Ă&#x2020; [

$ $ another AHHA initiative that is enhancing and improving the lives of the poor living in these environmentally challenging parts of Cambodia.

HIGHLIGHTS

MEDICAL MISSION CASE STUDY

Patient: THN During March 2019 a group of 25 volunteers from Australia, Vietnam and Cambodia travelled to the remote village of Sinok Tru in the province of Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia to provide medical examinations to the underprivileged who have no access to medical facilities due to their isolation. # *

and volunteer health professionals were in attendance to undertake gynaecological examinations. Over 300 gynaecology examinations were conducted and coincidentally, one of the " * _ ") A patient, THN, was kind enough to agree to an interview to enable her story to be told and the hardship experienced while - [ % 7 & ) Thi is a 33-year-old mother who has two children, a boy aged Â&#x2C6; Â&#x201E;) [

4 4Â&#x201A; " )

" # '

Writer Mr Ted Mlynarz

5 years. She lost her mother when she was 18 and her father recently passed away due to illness.

Living on the water provides its dangers and THN has struggled to raise a family in these trying conditions. The family income #

|55 @ # - Ă&#x20AC;|55 are being relocated to land due to government concerns ) [ * # #

# "

" # ) [

" " ( '

pregnancy prevention device as she no longer has the desire to have more children due to past tragedies and the lack # #

relocation.

6 "

) [ * story is one of many.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 13

MEDICAL MISSION CASE STUDY

Cataract Patients Writer Dr William Trinh

We were fortunate to have the opportunity to visit some of the patients who had cataract surgeries by AHHA team in 2018.

We would like to share with you the outcomes of some AHHA cataract surgery patients that we saw at our recent March 2019 # ` <

< ' ) were very delighted to see they all now can see 6/12 (Visual ! # · ' " ) " & '" dedicated volunteers and generous donors have made a big

) % & 6 [ " [ gather the patients for this article.

CASE #2 PATIENT NAME:

Mr Nguyen VD AGE:

80 LOCATION:

dry land in Sinoktru Kampong Chhnang MEDICAL NOTES:

CASE #1

August 2016: Received cataract surgery from AHHA in his Left eye.

PATIENT NAME:

Mr Le V T.

Reviewed in March 2019: Uncorrected visual acuity Left eye 6/12

AGE:

72 LOCATION:

From Sinoktru

village into dry land Kampong Chhnang.

MEDICAL NOTES:

August 2018: Received cataract surgery on his Right eye from AHHA. Reviewed in March 2019: Uncorrected Visual acuity in Right eye is excellent with 6/9.

14 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

RE: Hand movement with dense cataract.

HIGHLIGHTS

Education Sponsorship Writer Ms Christine Nguyen

% %

# to assist the underprivileged students in Vietnam and Cambodia in the province, with their education from primary to high school, up to Year 12. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, it helps to reduce

' # # have more time to focus on their studies, create a strong foundation for supporting students in their success in life,

& $ &# young age with no basic foundation.

CASE #3 PATIENT NAME:

AHHA Scholarship program started in 2013 with 24 " @ 45 Â&#x2C6; have sponsored a total of 289 students:

Mr Nguyen MS AGE:

55 LOCATION:

dry land in Sinoktru Kampong Chhnang MEDICAL NOTES:

August 2018: Received dense cataract surgery from AHHA in his Left eye Reviewed in March 2019: Uncorrected visual acuity Left eye 6/12

2013: 24 2014: 48 2015: 44 2016: 44 2017: 74 (53 Vietnam + 21 Cambodia) 2018: 55

In 2019 we have sponsored a total of 65 students from Year 6 to Year 12 from these poor provinces per listed below: Floating Village (Cambodia): 3 Dong Nai: 3 Da Nang: 11 Nha Trang: 11 Cu Chi: 37 We sincerely thank our sponsors and donors for your continued support, without your contribution, this program would not have been a success to date.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 15

Wheelchair Donations

Writer Ms Christine Nguyen

A large number of the dental patients who AHHA treated are disabled children from NGO. Amongst them are children # _ & [ &* < center for children with physical and/ or intellectual disabilities and National Borey for Infants and Children (NBIC).

These are government run orphanage centres and home to abandoned or orphaned HIV/AIDS-positive, specialneeds children and young adults who have a physical or intellectual disability.

In 2018 these disabled patients came to Dental School at the University of Puthisastra (UP) to be treated and the state of the wheelchairs were in very # ) [

did the best they could to repair using little resources available like wooden or metal scraps. It was obvious these bad condition wheelchairs were # ' ' *

* ) 6 of them were still smiling and happy to meet us. We felt there was a strong need to do something to help improve

* )

A group of AHHA volunteers rallied and donated a total of US$3724 to help purchase special wheelchairs and feeding chairs for the disabled children at National Borey and Damnok Toek Centres. This was done with the assistance of Dr Serebot from the UP Dental School, who assisted us with all the purchases and assessing what the ! ) We donated 7 wheelchairs, 6 feeding chairs and 4 special cushions as ! '" = " < ) [

' new wheelchairs that the centre had ever received and the children were $ " "

smiled with excitement when they saw these brand new wheelchairs. It was a sight to behold.

Unfortunately due to our limited time # * ' _ & [ & ! # # ; ; ) donated 4 wheelchairs and US$600.

The money was to use for repairing the centre, buy diapers and a water tank as ! )

16 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

We also donated one new wheelchair to the University of Puthisastra for these children to use when they visit in the future.

With the remaining donated money left we bought a boat and donated it to the Floating Village community for transportation purposes.

People with physical disabilities have many obstacles to overcome, and for those living in the under developing world like Cambodia, these obstacles would be insurmountable. I held back tears during the visit to National Borey Centre when I witnessed how these poor children lived. $ " ' #

AHHA family and to be able to serve these precious people.

Ä°

Ms Tanya Anh-Tuan Ms Maria Antonellos Dr Angel Babu Ms Alison Baum Ms Dana Beech Ms Helena Born Dr Catherine Brennan Ms Megan Broughton Ms Le Cao Dr Andrew Chang Ms Socheata Chea Dr Juliana Chong _ +" <

Ms Amanda Cunningham Mr Dan Dang Ms Maria Dang Mrs Caitlyn Dao Miss Gracie Dao Ms Vicki Dodd Ms Sonia Farah Dr Lisa Farber Miss Tia Fitzpatrick Dr Kevin Foo Ms Kristen Gibson _ + ' Ã&#x2030; Dr Oanh Ha Mr Charles Hili

Dr Jeremy Hoang Miss Chloe Hoang Dr Thomas Hong Dr Tess Huynh Master Mathew Huynh Ms Emi Izawa (Callaway) Dr Niv Kamalendran Mr Peter Kandasamy Dr Daniel Kim Ms Cindy Kim Miss Caitlyn Kim Dr Anthony Lam Mrs Jane Lam Dr Phuong Anh Lam Dr Anthony Hoang Lam Ms Mai Trang Le Dinh Dr Troy Lim-Joon Dr Lance Liu _ + ( 6 Mrs Pauline Martin Dr Jean Mcmullin Mr Ted Mlynarz Ms Marie Myers Dr James Ngo Dr Phuc Ngo Mr Timothy Nguyen Ms Christine Nguyen

OUR VOLUNTEERS

2019 Field Trip Volunteers Writer Ms Stephanie Wong

& " # 45

trip volunteers. We are most grateful for their commitment, compassion and generosity which contributed to another great successful mission. & # leadership and teamwork to make each mission successful.

Dr Chinh Nguyen Dr John Nguyen Dr Vu Nguyen Ms Thuy Nguyen Ms Tuyet Nguyen Mr Steven Nguyen Mr Phi Nguyen Mr Lawrence On Dr Thomas Pham Ms Kym Pham Ms Julie Pham Miss Felicity Pham Ms Joanne Pham _ + " ; Dr Anthony Poon 6 Ã&#x160; +

_ 7 + _ < " + Dr Michael Shiu Dr Michael Stefanescu _ 6 [$ Dr Andrew Trail Dr Hien Tran Mr Michael Man Tran Mrs Ha Tran Ms My Linh Tran Dr Minh Khanh Tran

Dr Minh The Tran Ms Alison Tran Ms Helen Tran Mrs Hang Tran Dr Dien Tran Dr Hung Tran Ms My Phung Tran Master Jeremy Tran Miss Chloe Tran Dr William Trinh Dr Khanh-Tien Truong Ms Dunia Tucker Dr Duc Van Miss Keira Van Mr Frederick Van Urk Dr Lo-An Vu Dr Phung Vu Miss Cara Vu _ + Dr Patrick Wong Ms Stephanie Wong Dr David Worsnop Ms Vicki Wrigley Mr Kevin Yang

All volunteers pay for their own expenses including airfares, accommodation, transportation and meals.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;¢ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;¢ January - December 2019 | 17

Ä°

AHHA wishes to thank our local partners and volunteers for their generosity and dedication. We are very grateful to their continued support. Special thanks to HE Sean Ngu with Khmer Sight Foundation volunteers, HE Serey Chea with National Bank # < ' + ; % [ ; # 6 Ngy, Dr Chhour Long of Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital,

18 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

Our Local Partners and Volunteers Writer Ms Stephanie Wong

_ [ " 6 % ; # % < ; # < Durward with Dental Clinic of University Puthysatra volunteers and the Vietnamese doctors and nurses team. Together we have accomplished wonderful life changing work for many improvised Cambodians during the 2019 mission.

OUR VOLUNTEERS

! "$ %&&' (' )"&*

Dr Chinh Nguyen Specialist Paediatric Dentist BDSc, MDSc, FRACDS, MRACDS, Diploma (Conscious Sedation & Pain Control) Writers Dr Chinh Nguyen & Mr Ted Mlynarz

<

' % + ' # South Vietnam. After the war in 1975, as was the experience of many displaced families, and after several near-death encounters during unsuccessful escape attempts, Chinh, his mother and two siblings arrived in Perth, Western Australia in 1982 as legal refugee boatpeople.

Chinh owed a great deal of debt to his mother, who as a single parent

# her three young children overcame poverty, hardship and humiliation.

The family was grateful to be accepted as political asylum refugees by the

Australian Government, due to close involvement with the Allied from the + ' # % @ ) [ " " appreciate and respect the freedom and democratic rights from second Mother Land, Australia, which they are thankful and proud to be a part of.

Settling in a new country and trying to adapt to a new environment was always a struggle. The language barrier was a huge challenge particularly as a late school starter in the education system.

Having struggled with traumatic poverty during childhood after 1975, together with numerous dangerous escape attempts and the constant battle with

# $ <

-

( have moulded his resilience and the appreciation of the opportunities life has given.

With this sense of obligation, Chinh

$ " # ' & helping the poor and underprivileged through charity work and collectively contribute to the Australian communities and Humanitarian missions abroad.

For this reason, Chinh became a part of the Australian Health Humanitarian Aid Â&#x192;

¡ #

humanity by wholehearted volunteers

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 19

that drove (and still drives) his involvement with since 2010.

Chinh feels privileged to lead the AHHA Dental Team since its infancy in 2012. He regards the success and impact of the Dental Program as a collective contribution of ALL Dental volunteers

" #

* 6 < ) Being a Specialist Paediatric Dentist for over 20 years, treating disabled children has provided Chinh with an appreciation of a life he truly values. Being there in Vietnam and Cambodia and taking care of displaced, unwanted, disabled and orphaned children has provided Chinh a â&#x20AC;&#x153;magical sense of satisfaction and Ă&#x152;) # ") * # " * irreplaceable. Ă?[ # ' ' # $ " " '

# ") ' ! ' # experience to be involved with these remarkable volunteers of like-minded humanitariansâ&#x20AC;?.

The involvement with University Puthisastra in Phnom Penh in the last 4-5 years has been a tremendous success. The Clinical mentorship provided to the Dental students by AHHA Dentists has been a great learning experience and invaluable knowledge for the young Professionals. The Continuing Education Conferences arranged for local Dentists and Students has been

# &

# _ ") <

*

Ă? _ # AHHA, continues with its commitment momentum in helping the underprivileged for the years to comeâ&#x20AC;?.

Professional History â&#x20AC;˘ Graduated from University of Western Australia with a Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc) in 1992. â&#x20AC;˘ < _ _ X^ Hospital 1993-94. Gained tremendous exposure working under Multi-disciplinary Specialist Supervision. Obtained Primary Fellowship in 1994, by examination â&#x20AC;˘ Commenced Paediatric Dentistry Specialist training at Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney from 1995 to 1997. Obtained a Master of Dental Science (MDSc, Paediatric Dentistry) from University of Sydney and same " ' \ # [ + " < # _ % Â&#x192;\+ <_% ; _ " '" examination) â&#x20AC;˘ % + @ % ; Dental Department, Westmead Hospital and the New < * Â&#x2C6;) â&#x20AC;˘ Completed a Diploma in (Conscious Sedation and Pain Control) at Westmead Hospital in 2000. â&#x20AC;˘ Chinh has been a Specialist Paediatric Dentist in full time private Practice since 1998 and currently runs busy Paediatric Dental Practices in Liverpool and Summer Hill, which provides Conscious Sedation including Intravenous, Oral and Inhalation â&#x20AC;˘ <

' ^ < " % Day Hospital at Westmead for over 20 years providing < ! Ă&#x2030; Anaesthesia for complex and comprehensive Paediatric Dentistry. â&#x20AC;˘ Chinh has special Interests in Conscious Sedation Â&#x192;X ¡ # * behaviour management (who are nervous and scared), Dento-alveolar Trauma management and Surgery and Orthodontics. â&#x20AC;˘ Chinh has been actively involved as Dental Team Leader with the Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA) for the past 10 years, providing dental treatment to disabled and orphaned children. Annually, Chinh co-ordinates a group of 15 to 20 Dentist volunteers from across Australia and travel to rural Vietnam and Cambodia providing Palliative Dental Care to the disabled and poor orphaned children. â&#x20AC;˘ Chinh was Past President of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Paediatric Dentistry (ANZSPD-NSW Branch)

Professional Membership â&#x20AC;˘ Australian Dental Association, since 1992 â&#x20AC;˘ + " < # _ % Ă&#x20AC; â&#x20AC;˘ Australian New Zealand Society of Paediatric Dentistry since 1995 â&#x20AC;˘ Australasian Academy of Paediatric Dentistry, since 1998 â&#x20AC;˘ Australian Vietnamese Health Professional Association, since 1998

20 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

! "$ %&&' (' )"&*

OUR VOLUNTEERS

Dr Rex Martin Anaesthetist + ,- 8; <=- > ?

Writers _ + ( 6 Ă? 6 [ 6 " Ă?

_ 6 '

#

years and has travelled with the group to both Vietnam and Cambodia providing regional anaesthesia to patients in preparation for eye cataract surgery. = + ( %

j Kingdom and the USA for a period of three years.

Upon graduating in Medicine from the University of Melbourne Â&#x2C6;| + ( Ă&#x2030; ; = (

" @ )

# + ( Diploma in Obstetrics and a Diploma in Anaesthetics (UK). # $ 6 ' % @ *

completed a fellow year at Massachusetts General Hospital in = j% ! % Â&#x201E;)

% @ * Ă&#x2030;

# " ) Â 455 + ( $ Ă&#x2030; Anaesthetic Group of which he is currently Chairman. He has special interest in Cardiothoracic Anaesthesia and

< ; [

Â

" " # " medical students from Deakin University Medical School.

455Ă&#x20AC; + ( + < in Australia, preparing Anaesthetists for the challenges of & ) years ago, he accepted an invitation from a colleague in Geelong (Dr Andrew Narita â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a long-time AHHA volunteer) $ 7 @ ) Ă? " $ " ( ) ' #

care to non-English speaking patients in a high volume setting while still maintaining high standards of safety, cleanliness and patient comfortâ&#x20AC;?. Ă? " '" ! " #

the spirit in which it was conducted. The patients were needy, incredibly stoic and grateful for their care. In many cases the restoration of sight was a life changing event for many of the patientsâ&#x20AC;?.

Dr. Martin returned for the next four years and has participated on missions to Cambodia. Working at the Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital in Phnom Penh he â&#x20AC;&#x153;managed to meet and help a number of local medical students who taught me some Khmer in return. It has been gratifying to see them now working as young doctors helping build local medical capacity in Cambodiaâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over my time with AHHA I have been impressed with the spirit of philanthropy and team spirit of my fellow volunteers.

They are well organised and adaptable when challenges inevitably arise. I have been impressed with the patients who often arrive at the hospital somewhat tired and apprehensive.

It has been a pleasure to relieve their anxiety by making their surgery painless and assisting the surgeons to restore their sight. Often the surgical outcomes have been very good with low complication rate comparable to Australia. Often when I

- $ # '

! " # # "Ă&#x152;) _ 6 $ " "

# Â&#x192;; 6

$ ¡

include cycling tours, bushwalking, camping and scuba diving.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 21

Excerpt from Vision Eye Institute Press Release

Volunteer Experience:

Lawrence On PRESS RELEASE

Celebrating the work of Australia's Eye Doctors For World Sight Day 2019, Vision Eye Institute is celebrating the international aid work of Australia's eye care professionals. There is a strong volunteer tradition in the Australian vision care community and the team at Vision Eye Institute is no exception â&#x20AC;&#x201C; many of Vision  " * # & "

organisations to provide assistance in countries with limited access to eye care.

Vision Eye Institute ophthalmologist (eye doctor) Dr Tess Huynh volunteers for Cambodia Vision, Sight For All and she has been part of Australian Health Humanitarian Aid Â&#x192;

" @ @ ; $ ¡ 455Â&#x201E;) AHHA provides free eye surgery, eye care, and general medical and dental treatment to underprivileged people in Asia. Dr Huynh says that in 2019, AHHA screened more than 900 cataract cases, resulting in over 500 operations to improve vision. She says that these procedures can "

impairment, but they can also free family members from the responsibility of caring for their loved one. As Dr

" Âą Ă&#x201C;

between a child going to school or staying home to care # " )* [

& _ "

is a stark contrast between Australia and many of the countries she has volunteered in. She says in Australia it can be easy to take good vision for granted. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;In some of

& * $ ' ' " & # yourself or care for your family â&#x20AC;&#x201C; while other eye conditions that would be a mere inconvenience in Sydney can cause ' " ' @ < ' * _

" " ) * *

Ă&#x2022;

we review them after their treatment, seeing the smile on

# )* ))) With over 16 years of experience, Dr Tess Huynh is a highly respected cataract, corneal and refractive surgeon who is actively involved in charity work, research and teaching. Her (

# both routine cataract surgery, as well as more complex removals for patients with co-occurring eye conditions.

Dr Huynh also specialises in corneal conditions and vision correction using laser eye surgery (LASIK, SMILEÂŽ and ASLA). Dr Huynh practises at Vision Eye Institute Hurstville.

22 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

I heard about the Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA) | " ) $

" & " # " ' -" about a charity organisation that he was involved in and encouraged me to get involved. I was immediately interested, but as most 18 year olds are, I got caught up with my new life at university. Jump ahead a couple of years and I am at our annual family Christmas dinner, listening to my Aunty tell us how her friend does the most incredible charity work. Coincidentally, it happened to also be with the AHHA organisation. The stories of how sight had been restored to thousands of impoverished elderly in Cambodia and Vietnam made me want to be a part of this. To be a part of something bigger. To be able to enact real change to people who did not have the same opportunities we have here in Australia.

# ( ) # & I received an email from the University informing me that my " (

45 Â&#x2C6; #

) [ &# " * # " ") The following year, I was determined to go. So, I emailed the j " Ă&#x2014; " 45 # said a few prayers, and the next thing you know, I had a plane ticket to Cambodia.

Admittedly, I was a little nervous. I had never been to South East Asia before; I did not know any of the other volunteers who were going; and I doubted how a medical student could possibly be helpful. But before long, I found myself at Brisbane airport, and then in Phnom Penh. By the time we landed, I had " Ă? # Ă&#x2122; & but they had one thing in common: passion. The enthusiasm and energy bouncing around was inspiring.

My 4 days of volunteering went past in a blink of an eye. I was a # Ă&#x2030;; * # " whilst also working with local volunteer translators to perform detailed histories and examinations in order to also manage * ) "

and managed common issues such as hypertension, diabetes,

Ă&#x2030;X+_)

' lack of investigations made things challenging, the GP team lead by Dr Daniel Kim were extremely supportive and guided

" ) [ got the opportunity to be involved with both the optometry and

#

$ " # pre-op to post-op.

During my time there, we examined hundreds of patients, #

# $ seek medical care; every patient as thankful as the last. It was # ' $ -"

ward rounds or hugging the walls in theatre hoping not to get yelled at by the theatre nurse. It was a time where I was trusted

OUR VOLUNTEERS

to make clinical decisions and serve a community that relied heavily on foreign aid. This is what I envisioned life as a doctor would be like when I started.

The most memorable moment for me, was visiting a remote community on the edge of Cambodia, where we ' patients for cataract surgery. This place was like nothing I had ever seen. It was a village setup on rafts along the river.

As our boat docked, it was clear that this village was even poorer than the others we had visited. They had neither access to running water nor reliable power. I " ' @ - sets being used as an irrigation system for pot plants. This image is a constant reminder of how lucky we are to live in Australia and to appreciate the wealth of resources we have access to.

My time in Cambodia was a truly unforgettable and humbling experience. [ * &

yet they put their faith and health in my hands. Being able to follow a patient through from the beginning to post

remarkable change of a 20-minute surgery was astounding. I could feel the compassion and kindness of everyone around me. At the beginning of this trip, " $

but as I left, they felt like a second family. That is what I think makes AHHA ) Ă&#x161; $

' ) + " member of a family that has a common goal: bettering the lives of those less fortunate. * ' # #

achieved as a group in such a short time.

It was a privilege to be a part of this trip and I must thank everyone for coming together to make such a massive scale mission possible. It also goes without saying that I would have also not been able to donate my time and share my knowledge without the support of my parents and family. Last, but not least, thank you to Dr William Trinh (my family optometrist), and Dr Tess Huynh (a living inspiration) for encouraging me to challenge myself and introducing me to the AHHA family.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 23

A Grateful Heart Writer Ms Kristen Gibson

" ; ` " + at Sandringham Hospital during the

# ;

* # " < ) * " # ' being only 3 years into my nursing career, * & ' ' ") ;` shared the most incredible stories and

"

$ ") Ă&#x2020; PK told me that I should apply via the AHHA website for the upcoming mission to Cambodia. He added that he thought I ' #

would get in touch with the nurse in charge of cataracts and theatre, Alison Chong. I still '

# $ before Christmas, 2018 to tell me that she

would love to have me on board if I wanted to. It was the best Christmas present ever.

Fast forward to August 17, 2019 and there I was on my way to Melbourne International airport with my dad after an emotionally fueled goodbye to my hubby and kids. On

# " time, Dr David Worsnop, Dr Troy Lim Joon, Dr Kevin Fu & Jo Antone. I was so nervous as to what was ahead, yet as soon as I met with my soon to be new friends I felt at ease.

As the others browsed through duty free I sat with a glass of wine and my thoughts ' # - ' ) ' feeling exhausted from all the emotions as well as so far out of my comfort zone. In the # * ' ' this terminal, I was with my husband and 2

24 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

' " " # " Ă&#x2020; But this time I was headed to the unknown. * &

going with or what it would entail. _ " X Ă? "Âť & ' Â&#x192; Ă&#x2020;¡ Â&#x201A;)Â&#x201A;| & ) & the simple trick of pulling the phone out of the wall. I eagerly arose to a wonderful ' ' &&" " # " # ) We boarded the bus at 7am sharp much 6 [ * ) 6 " Ă? # " * " " * Ă&#x2122; # " * " * Ă&#x2122; # " * * ' )Ă&#x152; \

determined to beat Michael to the lobby each morning.

We arrived at Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital before 7.30am ready to set up for the coming days of operating. Pulling up to the hospital was a real eye opener. Never in my life had I seen such poor conditions at a hospital. But one thing that really stood out to me that I will always keep in my heart is the fact that when a person was ill, the whole family would be by their side.

In addition, the nurses, doctors and other ' "

$ '

Ă? ) [

poor conditions were simply due to a poor country.

Each day that the buses of AHHA volunteers arrived to the hospital, the faces of all the locals would light up, both young and old. $ "

people, holding hands and sharing hugs.

Little things I will never forget.

Setting up the Theatres was like a well-oiled machine. It was obvious that the amazing volunteers of AHHA had done this time and time again. I was both excited and honored to be part of such a wonderful team.

# $

-

*

to simple things such as clean water.

The people of these villages were literally stuck between two worlds, Vietnam and Cambodia. We put together many fresh

5 " with simple maintenance. We showed the locals how to use them, as well as handed out bags of rice and an envelope to each # "

! # ( " ten US dollars. 3 small gestures from AHHA to make such an impact on these people

OUR VOLUNTEERS was truly humbling and I will never forget it. # " \<< $ & from our hotel. The organization put into such a mission is incredible by the AHHA team. From breakfast, lunch and dinner to transport for the Volunteers and everything in between was second to none and it made me feel truly blessed to be involved rather than giving up my time to help. I never knew a volunteer organization could be so amazing.

I operated with 2 amazing surgeons during my 2 weeks in Phnom Penh, Dr Thomas ; Ă? _ < " + ) &

such experienced surgeons was truly an incredible experience. Through their knowledge they were able to overcome almost any surgical hurdle to ensure positive patient outcomes. Further to their operating skills they were truly beautiful people, giving up their time to make a huge

of Cambodia.

The most incredible moment for me as a scrub nurse would have to be seeing an elderly gentleman post op who was profoundly deaf as well as cataract blind.

I assisted Dr Thomas during this surgery which certainly had its challenges and to see the shield come down the following day with a great result was incredibly heartwarming. The positive impact for this patient was obvious as soon as the " & )

#

$ ") able to give this man the gift of one of his ' & ) [ $ incredible.

The 2 weeks I spent volunteering with AHHA was nothing short of amazing. Chairman Dr William Trinh, his wife Stephanie Wong and the management team have worked " #

" Ă? ! ' " changes the lives of so many. If I was to name all the people involved I would be naming each and every one. You are all exceptional human beings and I feel so thankful to have been a part of the 2019 ) = ( Ă&#x2020; I am forever grateful to have been a part of something so wonderful.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 25

Volunteer Experience:

Reach Long B J % " Q ! "$ %&&' Writer 6 + 7

One morning of a normal hot day in Phnom Penh, I united with several groups of volunteers at Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital. It is also known as

+ ) ' # # % j * donation about 30 years ago. Our '$

hundred patients getting eyes surgery and diagnosis.

Before we rolled the morning, volunteers met with AHHA and the # '

could best support them. We allocated #

whole process. It was our duty to make sure that volunteers are always there when the doctors need us. Our main responsibilities include interpretation and assist transporting patients from station to station. We had limited resources. We needed to rotate. Given limited time and so many patients, the process had to be smooth with minimal friction. \

- #

' [

registration team, whose duties were

# ' '

surgery. We arranged two rows of red plastic chair with walkway in the middle.

Between the two rows, the team allocate patient number and provided cleansing * " for diagnosis.

Second, once ready for diagnosis, the diagnosis team moved patients by a # ( & before the operation. Doctors and nurses checked condition of the eyes - as not all eyes are serious enough to go through the operation. This stage alone consisted of several stations which consisted of medical GP team, optometry team and pharmacy team.

These teams provided general medical checkups, eye examinations and dispensing medication. Those with mild condition were sent home with prescribed medical aids and sunglasses.

Third, the operation stage is where the surgery took place. Volunteers helped patients by covering them with sterile medical clothes. The local volunteers did our best to reassure patients by giving them warm smile and support. It's only natural people may feel anxious before any surgery. Meanwhile, the other half of the the local team were interpreting for doctors inside the operation theatres. Interpreting everyday words such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;please look, straight, open eyes etcâ&#x20AC;? seems easy; believe me, it ) [ ! instant interpretation as doctors act fast â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it need to be fast. A volunteer had to come out because she could ! & ) [

not because her English was not good, but the operation room struck her. It is common to be freezed when seeing a sharp needle makes its way to an eye ball. Not everyone is born to be a doctor.

She did very well when she helped in the diagnosis section.

Finally, after the operation, nurses gave patients eye drops, protective sunglasses, pain medication and assisted them to the resting area waiting for post-op checks. Sunglasses to protect from sunlight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one of the main enemy for most eyes. Patients needed to always keep their sunglasses on while outside and use drugs as prescribed.

Behind this frontline, in the background, a huge logistic team working with # and accommodation for patients who traveled from Kompong Thom province, in central Cambodia. A month earlier,

26 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

diagnosis for about a thousand people from all over Santuk district within Kampong Thom province. The people with serious condition, we helped bringing them to Phnom Penh for surgery. This is a golden chance for the patients to improve their deteriorating eyesight. This facility and expertise are not available in the countryside. They had nowhere to go. This are the reasons

"

conditions for years.

Because it was a workday, about half of the volunteers could only helped half day.

We had to shift. Out of their kind heart,

# #

" " ") [ ^ in Phnom Penh is extremely congested. [

$ # " # # full days, continued to support despite their exhaustion. I could see it from their faces. These are the people who use their mind to strengthen their body, when their body fat and body can no longer be the source of energy. I believe these kind heart people would be very successful in their career and live. \ & #

over three hundred patients were lucky to regain their eye sight; some were able to see again after decades of darkness.

They were extremely happy and grateful.

You could tell from their continuous smile after the treatment. There was # ) [ $

OUR VOLUNTEERS

Volunteer Experience:

Lois Evans Clinic Manager for Khmer Sight Foundation (KSF) Writer Ms Lois Evans Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA) has enjoyed several successful missions to Cambodia. An important aspect of this success is the organisation/s with which we partner.

In Cambodia, AHHA has established a successful partnership with the Khmer Sight Foundation (KSF) who provide valuable assistance with local culture, interpretation services and local volunteers whose enthusiasm and friendly demeanour makes our work so much easier.

This year, the team was supported by a young lady from England who works with the Khmer Sight Foundation and provided an outstanding support function in the Cataract Theatre area.

Her story speaks for itself.

What brought me to Cambodia to work?

# # = & # < ' < 6= ' & ;+ % < ' & `

Sight, and, especially, AHHA volunteers who have traveled thousands of miles from Australia. This humanitarian act is an act of inclusion and care.

If one thing motivates volunteers in the hospital, * "

) Ă&#x161; would feel very good after helping the people in need and receiving intangible gratitude from

) $ # ) " # '"

Ă&#x2020; [ " " reservoir with pride. Ă?Ă&#x2030; " # # "Ă&#x2122;

" # # lifetimeâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an old saying. I believe that giving the people back their eyesight may not only give

' " ' #

liveliness for a long time. If you are reading this, " $

with us next time. I look forward to see you in < ' Ă&#x2020;

I had been travelling around Asia for 6 months before stepping back onto Cambodian soil. I had previously been in the country for 7 months around 2 years ago. I came back to visit friends and volunteer with Khmer Sight Foundation, but the Khmer people stole my heart and I accepted to work here for a year. I now run the clinical side of Khmer Sight and will stay for 1 year.

6" Â ( #

What an amazing experience it was. Before even experiencing it for myself I had been told that its completely crazy and busy but the best experience and I loved every minute of it. Everyone that I met was so friendly and worked so hard.

I was working in with the theatre team transporting the patients from having anaesthetic to the theatre and then from theatre back out to

) \

' $ ')

- & ' & the Khmer people at ease before going into the surgery room. At one point I had 4 ladies dancing with big smiles on their faces before and after surgery. The Khmer people are truly amazing, coming from the province into the city, of which some of them have never done before, to be taken to a hospital and to put full trust in surgeons with not fully understanding

* ) = " &

( " * ' feeling in the world, to see their faces light up because they can actually see again. A lot of patients that we saw could only see at hand movement. * & " #

" the people of Cambodia.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 27

Youth in Action Writer Miss Chloe Hoang

This year, I was privileged enough to ' & "

aid mission with my father to Cambodia.

I had listened with keen interest as my cousins and friends regaled their own experiences of being part of this wonderful organisation. To be honest, whilst I was excited, I was unsure as to how exactly I could help.

I had only heard that the work could get hectic and volunteers needed to use their problem solving skills. However, as I arrived in Cambodia and began to assist at the Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital, ! & "

was able to make. Whilst individually,

* ' small, together our collective capacity to enact change was incredible. Even I, as a student, felt a part of something that

' " #) + -

back on the work of the AHHA team, the impressive number of cataract operations and dental treatments that we delivered, the hundreds of water

'

lives we touched and improved a little, I felt proud of my own small part.

Thinking back on my own experience, I believe all youth should be provided such a wonderful opportunity as I have, to help others less fortunate. Too often, our young lives lack perspective and it becomes too easy to forget how privileged we are. Not until I was able to see and begin to understand the struggles of others that I realised how " " ^ ) One does not choose the life one is born into. The insight that I have gained has instilled within me a much greater sense of gratuity, compassion and empathy.

28 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

On average, 2195 children die every single day from diarrhoea globally, more than the combined total for measles, _%) + " #

illness in the Western world, the lack of access to basic clean water has resulted in an epidemic of sanitation related problems that many of us are unaware of. Travelling to villages outside Phnom Penh, the AHHA team assembled water # ' & ) Â & " # '

& # "* ' " access clean water.

' & was a pair of sunglasses. While the simple sunglasses could be purchased cheaply anywhere, I realised it is not " Cambodia. When assisting with visual acuity testing, I asked patients to look Ă&#x201C;Â * ' idea of their vision. I encountered many patients who were unable to distinguish even the largest symbols on the chart.

Many of these patients would have spent long hours in the harsh sun in their daily

OUR VOLUNTEERS

Volunteer Experience:

Ms Keira Van Writer Miss Keira Van

& ' # * & ( ) [ " < ' #

" travel with my dad. We have been overseas for family holidays and even supporting

" # _ ' " ) 6"

#

' & # | the villages and walking the patients from one place to another when working at the hospitals. But I was wrong, I learnt new skills and had a chance to experience working at the registration, helping prepare patients for surgery and screening their vision. I felt welcomed by the AHHA team and it was wonderful to see everyone working together. There were 6 other young volunteers who worked together with me, 2 from Brisbane and the rest from Sydney.

On my last day of working, I took the opportunity to visit the dental team. Many of the patients they were treating were children and there were a number of disabled children. I was able to follow one of the disabled children who was screened by my dad and then transferred to the dental room where the Paediatric dentist ( 4 ) ' # $ " ' of protection for their eyes.

Even though the trip has now ended, I have gained an unforgettable collection of memories and the experience has shaped me indelibly. The children at the villages watching with fascination as we put together Ă&#x2122;

' Ă&#x2122;

patients who had to bear my stuttering instructions in broken Vietnamese; and the "

lolly as I was boarding the bus to leave the village.

4 "

' ) Ă?

& # # " to clean drinking water. This is something we take for granted back in Sydney. This experience has really opened my eyes and given me a better understanding of the work which AHHA does. I hope to be able to volunteer again in the future.

It is inspiring to spend time with others who are so passionate about such a great cause. The AHHA mission demanded a huge amount of dedication and experience to manage the logistics of the trip, but it was the compassion I saw in the AHHA team that I truly hope will continue to touch the younger generation like myself. It would be fantastic for the legacy of AHHA, if the skills and the values that it fosters could be passed to the volunteers of tomorrow. I for one cannot wait to sign up next year and I am sounding out to all other passionate young Australians $ )

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 29

30 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

NEWS

Ä° Ä° a B &[ $ & & % Congratulations to the new parents and their adorable little girls.

Anh Kieu, Van Tay Nguyen and baby Summer Kieu Nguyen.

X* ' '" + X* ) Kristy Good, Andrew Worsnop and baby Georgia Worsnop.

6 " ' '" ' # $ " # ) ' Ă&#x2020;

Equipment Donation A ceremony was held on 27/8/19 at Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital KSFH, Phnom Penh, Cambodia to acknowledge AHHA for the donations # " ;

Ă&#x203A; X7 6 ) [ ! will be used for training Cambodian doctors and providing cataract surgery services at the KSFH. The ceremony was attended by Prof Meng Ngy director of KSFH and president of Cambodian national eye program, Dr Do Seiha Vice president of Cambodian national eye program, Dr Long Chhour, AHHA volunteers A/ Prof Andrew Chang, Dr Troy Lim-Joon, Dr Kevin Foo, Dr Tess Huynh, Dr William [ `%\ )

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 31

AHHA Fundraising Dinner Writer Dr Hien Tran The past and present success of the AHHA charity organisation lies in its volunteer base.

AHHA is fortunate to have committed volunteers who are passionate about its charitable causes.

Having said that, we always look towards succession planning, to nurture our next generations in carrying forward the legacy.

This is by no means an easy task and is a challenge faced by many organisations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nurturing next generations in charity.â&#x20AC;?

This was the theme for the fundraising dinner this year.

" " attending as guests to support and learn about the charity works of AHHA. Joining forces with adult volunteers to â&#x20AC;&#x153;run the showâ&#x20AC;? for this glittery event, a number of young student volunteers were involved in key roles such as Master of Ceremony (MC), reception team, presenter, singers, musicians and dancers.

The opening dance number was spectacularly artistic with young dancers wowing guests with their themed performance.

With a fantastic entertainment program, the evening was a very successful event and the much needed #

" $ run by AHHA. We would like to sincerely thank our donors, guests and volunteers for their generous support of AHHA. # " $ "

in an atmosphere of celebration, friendship and love.

32 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

FUNDRAISING

Soccer Match of the Year Writer Dr Duc Van 2019 was shaping up to be a big year for the AHHA Docceroos. It was an opportunity for us to redeem ourselves # '

half of the match in 2018 but then ") [ 6 ! = & Silver Donuts had shown us how youth, & ' " # ' ) X team was formed from doctors and allied health who were passionate about soccer. But passion can only take you # Âť)) [ " " younger and more skillful players who would be able to work synergistically

" $ & amoxycillin working with clavulanic acid as Augmentin to overcome that nasty

pneumonia. We were ready to use every bit of our medical knowledge, strapping every part of our body and taking prophylactic pain killers in order to be victorious. We took great care to stimulate all our muscle groups with the FIFA Docceroos Warm-Up and psychologically prepared for the match.

We did everything the doctor ordered to give ourselves the best chance. Our AHHA Docceroos support team were even more vocal and vibrant. And despite this we went down 4:3. Some

# shots should have been a goal when it hit the corner of the post. If only goal line technology had been used in the match.

they were still the champions. Not only did the best team win on the day, but it was a victory for all those involved. It was a victory for all the disadvantaged children and adults who AHHA provides aid to. Last year the Charity match raised $68,000 and this year we raised a tremendous $152,000. Our sincere appreciation goes to Madeleine Hoang

# 6 ! = & for all their hard work and support.

We would like to thank all our AHHA supporters and Docceroos family for being part of this great event. Our campaign has already begun and we

4545 " # + ' us great fortune and victory for the

_ Ă&#x2020;

In the end, the Silver Donuts proved that

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 33

Fundraising Activities Writer Mr Ted Mlynarz

Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA) undertakes several fundraising activities to raise much needed support

a lack of basic commodities which many of us take for granted. Food, health care, medical treatment and even a lack of basic medication such as a headache pill.

All money raised by AHHA is used to help those in need.

To enable AHHA to help and provide to the poor, needy and at times, those without hope, the generosity of the community is vital. Several fundraising

events are held each year and the support provided is overwhelming.

AHHA volunteers attending any fundraising event or travelling to overseas to partake in Humanitarian activities pay for their own travel and accommodation expenses. Our " ' ) A popular event is the AHHA Cabramatta Freedom Plaza BBQ/ Entertainment fundraising activity which is held four times each year. During 2019 these have been very successful and have raised much needed funds to enable AHHA to conduct its important

NSW & Queensland $[ )'& ^^& "

charitable and humanitarian work.

This is an important Public Education and Community Awareness event and during 2019 there have been two occasions when the general public was entertained with music and song on the 24th February and 7th April 2019. Unfortunately, the planned event for Sunday 16th June 2019 had to be abandoned due to inclement weather.

AHHA Volunteers are to be congratulated for giving up their Sunday morning sleep-ins or other activities and attending the fundraising activities and helping with various functions which include a sausage sizzle, entertainment and most importantly fundraising. Their assistance is much appreciated.

Several organisations are aware of the work of AHHA and have assisted in many

Writer Mr Ted Mlynarz

_ "" J' `& % & $[ > '& ^^& " j ' z _&&Q[* 17/11/2019 - 7/12/2019 Nearly 500 homes have been destroyed since the start of the ^ '

" ' X ' ) Damage to countless others has been evidenced with more being

'" ' % Â&#x192; % ¡ Queensland.

Tragically, lives have been lost adding to the gravity of the situation.

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lives of an untold number of families and individuals.

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& their lives and wellbeing to help those faced with this disaster.

Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA) is registered with + " < " % Â&#x192;+ <%¡ &

+ " < ' # 7 Ă?[ " nurses and volunteers to provide Cataract Surgery, General Medical, Dental, Humanitarian, Education Programs and Disaster + # % Ă&#x152; X % " Ă&#x20AC; ' 45

$

+ " < ' # 7 # \ Plaza in Cabramatta NSW to raise much needed funds to help

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' ) @ from near and far, including one from Adelaide, South Australia,

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sausage sizzle, distribution of balloons, making the public aware of

34 | Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA)

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# ) Quan Nho Ban Ngheo (NBN) is a local community charitable group based in Sydney and conducts monthly charity fundraising lunches to support other charities.

The AHHA fundraising luncheon was held on the 28th April 2019 and proved to be very successful with record attendances. Again, the support and attendance by AHHA volunteers to help on the day was outstanding.

NEWS

Bankstown Eye Specialists (BES) â&#x20AC;&#x153;is a modern

" !

technology to diagnose and manage eye diseasesâ&#x20AC;?.

BES has conducted fundraising activities which have '

) [ have now been completed and have raised substantial amounts to enable AHHA to continue its work.

" '" + " < ' # 7 $ + " < " % Â&#x192;+ <%¡ ; $ 14/2008-09.

the reason the event was taking place and most importantly raising the much-needed funds to help those in need.

A donation of lotus plants was generously provided Dr Thu Dung Dang who grows them in her spare time and proved to be very popular with the public and assisted with the fund raising.

The crowds were entertained with a concert provided by volunteers and the music and singing continued well into the afternoon with donations still being given after the ! ' packed.

The generosity of the public and the community cannot be underestimated. The day proved to be very successful and all volunteers attending on the day should feel " # )

+ " #

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' their lives and communities.

As an ending note, members of the rotary Club of Liverpool West, some of which are AHHA volunteers as well, will be travelling to Narromine in Central West NSW to Ă?

\ Ă&#x152; $ ) AHHA has made a substantial contribution

$

# the farmers and the local community.

Plus Fitness Cabramatta Fundraising Event A fund raising event was held on Sunday 14/4/19 at Cabramatta Police Community by Plus Fitness Cabramatta. $500 was raised from the community to help AHHA charity work. A special â&#x20AC;&#x153;thank youâ&#x20AC;? must go to

# ; \ < ' 6 [ @

AHHA volunteers.

Newsletter â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 19 â&#x20AC;˘ January - December 2019 | 35

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Newsletter • Issue 19 • January - December 2019 | 39

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/ b a Our mission would not be possible without the generous donations from our valued donors.

Donate today to help us give sight to change lives!

Donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Your donations will help us to provide life changing cataract surgeries, vital dental treatments, medical & dental supplies, medicines, education sponsorships, school supplies, food packages and more to those in need.

Donation forms are available online at www.ahha.org.au/forms/ or see page 36 of this newsletter.

We thank you for your support.