< 800 patients await medical assistance >
The venue for the free clinic is packed with 800 patients suffering from all sorts of ailments, such as facial tumor and harelip. Everyone waits patiently for their turn for the health check-up preceding the free clinic.
義診現場擠滿了800位病患,有的臉上長了腫瘤,有的有兔唇,大家全都耐心等候義診前的檢驗活動的開始。
Budi Kemuliaan Foundation chairperson, Sri Soedarsono:The free clinic is here to help those who had unsuccessful surgery or who cannot afford medical consultation. Although the government runs aid relief programs for the poor, it is only done on an ad hoc basis.
At the ophthalmology unit, 65 year old Suasana carefully checks patients' eyes. She became a nurse at an advanced age of 52, proving that hard work does pay off and that age is never an issue when it comes to helping others. She embraces every such opportunity with delight.
Ophthalmologic nurse, Suasana Imiran:We offer surgery to restore their sight, which brings them immense joy.
幫他們動手術,讓他們重見光明,自然大家都歡喜。
< Batam volunteers' first free clinic >
Lui Pau Cen, who has once received help from Singapore Tzu Chi volunteers, became a volunteer herself five years ago. On the island of Batam, Lui has been investing a lot of effort to involve housewives to spread the message of love. Many of them can be seen at the free clinic, attentively serving patients.
Batam TC liaison office director, Lui Pau Cen:I want to thank the Budi Kemuliaan Hospital for giving us, Batam Tzu Chi volunteers, the opportunity to learn and build on our experience. This is our first attempt at organizing a free clinic and everyone has contributed to the event themselves.
Due to an unexpected high number of patients, the free clinic continues well into the night. Volunteers stay behind to accompany patients every step of the way. The experience of the free clinic gave volunteers confidence for the many more similar events to come, and has also taught them that nothing is unachievable when you put your mind to it.