Covert Medical Operations in Sagaing
Better Burma has extended support to Healing Hands, one of the grassroots groups making a significant impact. Shade, a member of Healing Hands, recently shared insights about their work on a podcast episode. In the excerpt below, Shade sheds light on the risks that ground team members are taking in order to deliver much needed medical supplies in the face of military aggression. Given the devastating violence faced by the people in this region, the aid work carried out by Shade and his colleagues becomes even more critical, as described below. If you feel compelled, kindly consider making a contribution, no matter the amount, to support the valuable work undertaken by Healing Hands.
“Despite the challenges and dangers, we are determined to continue our mission and strive to alleviate the suffering of the people in these regions.”
“The violence traces back to the early days of the coup when doctors and other medical professionals were at the forefront of the civil disobedience movement, bravely standing up against the military regime. They became iconic figures in the resistance. However, this also made them a target for the military. It is indeed heartbreaking to see those who save lives being endangered themselves.
The situation has become dire. In some places, even basic pain relievers like paracetamol are confiscated, showing the extent of control and cruelty exerted by the military. Transporting medicine also poses risks, as they can confiscate supplies and harm those involved.
Even the rural clinics we've established are in danger of being destroyed, and those operating them are at risk of harm if their activities are discovered. We must operate discreetly, as openly practicing medical aid would be blocked and hindered by the military. They have been cracking down on pharmacies, CDM doctors, nurses, and dentists, arresting them without regard for the vital services they provide.
Tragically, I heard of a CDM nurse being murdered during interrogation while she was involved in delivering medical aid to some areas in need! It's a grim reality that those trying to save lives are also facing grave danger just for doing their jobs.
In our network, we must work clandestinely and carefully to deliver medical aid to those in need. While some areas under resistance control are safer, crossing into conflict zones is incredibly risky. The people on the ground are risking their lives to help others, and it's a somber reality we must confront.
The dedication of these medical professionals and the risks they take to provide aid is truly admirable, yet the danger they face is deeply saddening. This is a reality we must grapple with and continue to work towards supporting these courageous efforts amidst such difficult circumstances.
Moreover, the rural clinics we have established are under constant threat of being destroyed, and the courageous individuals running them face harm if they practice openly. Thus, we have no choice but to operate underground, maintaining a covert movement even in supposedly secure areas. Ensuring the absence of the military is vital to effectively deliver medical aid and healthcare in these regions.
Within our network, we must exercise extreme caution, operating behind the scenes and in secrecy, to deliver vital medical aid to those in need. While some areas under resistance control offer a safer environment, crossing into conflict zones poses significant risks. We must meticulously plan our routes and be acutely aware of the dangers involved. The brave individuals on the ground put their lives at stake to provide crucial medical assistance to those who require it.
It is an incredibly saddening reality that we must confront. Despite the challenges and dangers, we are determined to continue our mission and strive to alleviate the suffering of the people in these regions. Our commitment to delivering essential medical aid and support remains unwavering, even in the face of such difficult circumstances.”