When AHA first began doing surgery in the village of Kabudula (Kab) in 2014, international visitors completed most of the procedures, and only very minor procedures could be done when we weren’t there. The road from Lilongwe to Kab was dirt, and only one clinician had experience in minor surgeries and could independently complete minor procedures. Yet there were hundreds of patients with untreated surgical conditions around Kab trading center alone, and services had not yet been extended to the surrounding rural health centers.
Read moreMphatso Case Update
In February 2022, Mphatso and his father traveled to Blantyre so Mphatso could undergo tests to receive an official diagnosis. The doctors and specialists at Mercy James determined Mphatso suffers from arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), which happens when a group of blood vessels form incorrectly. The arteries and veins are tangled and form direct connections instead of connecting through capillaries as they should to bypass normal tissue. It was discovered that Mphatso had two veins feeding the growth.
Read moreNurse Christina’s Visit to Mphatso’s Village in Mozambique
Nurse Chrsitina’s trip has given us a much deeper understanding of Mphatso’s home village, what his life is like, and the trepidations of traveling for medical care.
Read moreDay 1: Lines & Power Outages
The first day of any surgical camp is always a bit hectic. Patients traveling in and learning where to go, supplies being delivered and organized, walk in patients looking for treatment, and more. Throw in a power outage and you’re sure to be on your toes all day. Scroll through today’s pictures to get a sense of all that was accomplished today.
Read morePreparing for Camp
In the past, AHA has paid to refill the oxygen cylinder, but we are so proud to have partnered with the District Health Office (DHO) so that they refilled the tank for this camp. This demonstrates a belief and support in our work that we truly appreciate.
Read moreThe team lands in Malawi
Since March 2020, clinicians have treated 310 patients at our local camps.
Read moreUnder the Baobab Tree
We aren’t even three months into 2022 and AHA has already impacted more than 100 individuals and families facing difficult medical and life circumstances. We have an exciting international trip planned in April and BIG plans for the rest of the year.
Read moreA post-op update on Mphatso!
I'm writing with the great news that Mphatso had his first surgery this past Wednesday and all went well!
Read moreThe Frequent Challenges of Hosting a Surgical Camp
Global Health Fellow Angela published a recent blog discussing the many, many aspects of planning a surgical camp. As anyone who has traveled, planned a large event, or works in the medical field can imagine, rural surgical camps rarely go exactly to plan. That’s why we’re so thankful to have Angela and our partners from Kab and KCH who are committed to patient care and flexible in the face of obstacles.
Read moreAHA Announces April Dates for International Surgical Trip
After more than two years’ delay due to the pandemic, AHA will send an international surgical team to Malawi in April 2022! We will spend 4+ days at Kabudula Community Hospital, treat 80+ patients, and train 10+ staff.
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