Supporting the relief efforts of Homeopaths Without Borders
by Jean Hoagland, NCH President
As 2004 drew to a close, the world was reeling from one of the most destructive
natural disasters of our time. More than 100,000 people were killed when
an undersea earthquake in the Indian Ocean triggered waves of terrible destruction.
Some small islands were obliterated; others were nearly so. Survivors were
left looking for their families and friends--children, mothers, fathers,
grandparents--only to realize that many had been washed away. The physical
and emotional needs are monumental and will remain so for a long time, as
the survivors struggle to rebuild their lives, homes, and livelihoods.
In the late summer of 2005 we witnessed the destruction and suffering caused
by hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region of the United
States. Again, families have been torn apart, many people died, many are
ill. As in the tsunami, the weeks, months and perhaps years that follow are
when the depths and extent of the damage to individuals and society make
themselves known.
Like you and many NCH members who have contacted us, we feel deeply for
those who are suffering, and we want to help. While we are eager to see homeopathic
care used in times of our own national crises we are limited by the fact
that agencies of the federal government, along with the American Red Cross,
provide the management of relief efforts. Hospitals, civic centers, arenas
are called upon to provide physical space for survivors. Teams of licensed
personnel are identified and authorized to enter tightly secured areas of
care. Access is limited. Medical doctors are the only ones able to use homeopathy
in their treatment, and that is not always clear. We are especially eager
to see that homeopathic treatment--which can be so beneficial for the after-effects
of shock and trauma as well as in the treatment of various diseases - will
be available. Because of the vast scope of Katrina's damage and the large
numbers of people needing care, we are seeking an easing of restrictions
which would allow treatment by homeopathically trained doctors, nurses, and
naturopaths. Permission for homeopathically certified practitioners will
take longer. NCH has again partnered with Homeopaths Without Borders, North
America, a not-for-profit humanitarian organization, to raise awareness and
funds for HWB's work with survivors of this and other disasters.
In the past, HWB-na has been most active in offering homeopathic training
and supplies to underserved populations in Cuba, Haiti and elsewhere. HWB
continues to aid Sri Lanka and contributes support to Dr. Ivy Dieltiens who
has remained there. Homeopathic remedies have been sent, and homeopaths are
still needed to volunteer.
HWB is seeking ways for homeopathic practitioners to be permitted to help
victims in the USA. Remedies have already been offered, volunteers are ready.
Needed are housing, a base of operations, and a medical physician to provide
care.
Funds raised by HWB are used for equipment, remedies, and other medical
supplies for survivors, as well as for transportation, food, and lodging
for volunteers. All contributions are tax deductible. Homeopaths Without
Borders is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Please send checks or money
orders (U.S. dollars only) made out to Homeopaths Without Borders- na, (or
HWB-na) or pay with your Visa or MasterCard. You may also use PayPal. If
you wish you may earmark your contribution to a particular relief effort.
Send your contribution to:
Homeopaths Without Borders-na
Joe Lillard, Treasurer
33 Fairfax Street
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
For more information visit the
web site.
