Maria David
BURNS are dreadful wounds that can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time.
Thus, plastic surgeon Dr. Caridad Lopez held a one-day free burn wound screening campaign for all past burn cases, the first of many to come, at Medi-park Ongwediva on Wednesday.
The campaign, which was deemed a success, saw a total of 24 patients screened, 23 of whom were children aged between 15 months and 15 years, and one adult.
She said that they admitted one patient after determining the need for further treatment.
Lopez, who spoke passionately about the campaign, indicated that she understands the struggle of survivors and that treating burn patients is very sensitive, requiring extensive care.
According to Lopez, being burned can be very devastating, and those who survive the injury suffer not only physical damage but also emotional and social harm.
“Burns are severe and have, over the years, been compared to AIDS, as they destroy people in the long run. Thus, we try our best to give our patients a new outlook on life and help decrease suffering while saving lives at the same time,” she said.
Lopez added that 90% of her burn patients were considered unsalvageable, but she believes her mission is to save them.
She also indicated that she has no recollection of any fatalities recorded since she began treating burn patients, saying that the goal is to give them an opportunity to view life with a positive mindset.
Lopez mentioned that the campaign, which began on Wednesday, will now be held annually, as she has a deep human interest at heart. She emphasized that dedication is essential when dealing with people.
“Burn patients have become like family to me over time. I don’t have night or day; I cannot go to sleep without knowing how my patients are doing,” she said.
She also said that if burns are not treated early, they can lead to life-threatening cancer.
Lopez, who enthusiastically launched the campaign, aims to reach more people in the future.
The current campaign was sponsored by Geka Pharm and On Point Marketing.
