Volunteer Voices: Dr. Eric Lazar
Tian Bao
Today was our 4th day operating as a team. Many of us have worked together before in the states or on other trips but we are now a cohesive team on this trip, having come from many different places and various backgrounds. Problem solving here involves many more people cooperating together than you might imagine. There is a culture gap, a language gap, and a medical knowledge gap. Nonetheless, with no time on the ground to practice or run through, we have achieved what some OR teams take years to do. Perhaps it also helps that we dine together and last night even danced at a local club, having a real blast. I am always touched by how our hosts extend themselves to us and insure our comfort. They are generous with their time, their food, and their spirit (and their spirits!).
Today, John Connor and I operated on an 8 year old boy whose foster brother we operated on yesterday. Both have medical problems that limit their socialization and they are cared for by a most generous and loving foster family. As we rounded this morning on Tian Bao, whose operation was yesterday, Yang Yang held his hand, concerned not for his upcoming operation, but for his brother. It was a touching moment-realizing that whatever their problems are, these two worry about each other, not themselves.
People often remark about what a wonderful thing this is that I do but it is the most selfish thing I have ever done. I am getting far more than I am giving. My wife, daughters, and partners back home give up more as they cover my responsibilities. I am better because know that I can do more with less. I do not need the latest gadget to function in the operating room and I see that well functioning teams can move mountains.
As much as I miss home and my family, I will find it hard to leave these children. Simply put, they are a beautiful reminder of the universal truths about children, chief among them that love and attention are sufficient to grow. – Dr. Eric Lazar
About Dr. Eric Lazar
Dr. Eric Lazar is a Pediatric Surgeon. Eric lives in Mendham, New Jersey with wife and three beautiful daughters. This is his second CCPF mission.
Yang Yang
This is a nicely written piece. It communicates a lot of information and imparts great visualization of the team’s activities. It is just like you to find the selfish component of all the good you do. I’m sure it is the same for all the CCPF mission team. I experience a feeling of national pride and patriotism for what the team does, and a lot of personal pride for your efforts.
Stories like yours have softened the impressions of China that I originally held. Keep up the good work. You give us all reason to be proud, and that feels very nice indeed.
UL