During scouting patients on the various Indonesian islands, we discovered more and more children and young adults with severe physical deformations by bad or untreated burns. Consequences of an exploded oil light, cooking on the ground of play with open fire. Piece by piece distressing situations.
We also wanted to help these children with treatment and in no time, we had a waiting list. This initiative led to our first ‘Burns Operating Marathon’ in May 2018. Twelve selected patients could travel to Bali. In collaboration with our field partner, John Fawcett Foundation, Dr. Anom and his team, supported by a team of foreign doctors, 12 serious and less serious cases were operated in three days. For all patients, this was a life-changing surgery. After years of an isolated and mutilated existence, these children slowly came back to life.
There were more children and young people on our waiting list. Much paperwork, permission of the family, choosing a supervisor…. It took for our team much time, energy, and money. But we succeeded again. In September 2019, for the second time, a surgery marathon was organised, and they came again to Bali. The Kolewa Foundation opens the door to the future and continues following and assisting them in their further development after surgery and revalidation.
Heldi, 12 years an unbearable existence…
Some operations are however so complex that there are not the right possibilities in Bali. In cooperation with Australian and Dutch doctors, opportunities are looked for abroad. Heldi travelled to Perth, Australia. The lovingly care by a host family and a large group of volunteers made the period bearable for her. For all involved people it was an intensive and costly period, but for sure much worthwhile. After years of being isolated and mutilated, she was brought back to life. She was able to go back to school and regained her confidence. In the meantime, she reigns the rules in the kitchen team.
For continuing to do so, money is needed. Any donations for children like Heldi, Ingky, Marcelia, Sayang, Jeni, Marlin and many others are more than welcome!
