Changing Lives in Lebanon

Interburns was asked to contribute its vast experience and expertise in burn care to change the world for people with burns in southern Lebanon. Changing the world is no easy task and requires multiple attempts to overcome various obstacles.

Nevertheless, as a strong team, both on-site and behind the scenes, we have succeeded in changing the world for some people, including our own perspectives. Most importantly, we were able to make a difference in the lives of many out- and in-patients with burn injuries who were suffering from pain, restricted movement and loss of skills and independence and who were, therefore, often isolated and excluded from participating in society.

To name just a few: there is 7-year-old Rihab, who is now running around happily again after successful scar correction and rehabilitation, conquering her world on foot and with both arms. The two young men, Ali and Mohamed, are in a similar situation. They were unable to use their arms due to scar contractures and are now well on their way to being able to embrace their world with both arms again.

And then there is Hassan, 28 years old, who was able to return to his world in Syria after five months of struggling back to life and reclaiming his own personality, abilities, and skills. The world now looks so much more hopeful for his two small children, his wife and his parents.

And then there is Lilian, seven years old, who is not yet quite ready to venture into the world of school but who, after scar release and scar treatment, intensive rehabilitation and psychosocial care, is now on her way to finding her way back into this world, step by step.

Last but not least, there are the local physiotherapists and nurses, who, with our support, have ventured into the professional world of burn care and treatment, approaching it with outstanding commitment and a thirst for knowledge and skills. They will continue to change the world of individual patients with burn injuries.

Thanks to Occupational Therapist, Renate Pfann, for contributing this story.