International Humane Missions

Empathy in Action: Illuminating Lives in Cambodia

Empathy in Action: Illuminating Lives in Cambodia

IHM medical mission 2023

In the heart of Cambodia lies a community largely unseen, their stories untold. Dr. Mai-Khanh Tran, a compassionate advocate for change, sheds light on the plight of ethnic Vietnamese living in Cambodia – a stateless group facing unimaginable challenges. Through her words, we embark on a journey of understanding and compassion, fueled by the desire to make a difference.

A World Unseen: Stateless and Forgotten

In the shadows of Cambodia’s vibrant landscapes, a silent struggle rages on. Ethnic Vietnamese, many of whom have lived here for generations, remain stateless, denied even the most fundamental human rights. Deprived of land ownership, healthcare access, education, and formal employment, they navigate life’s harsh currents, often relegated to the margins of society.

From the serene waters of Kampong Luong to the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh, IHM’s team of dedicated healthcare professionals is gearing up to provide crucial medical, dental, and eye care services. Our focus remains on the people living on or near Tonle Sap Lake – a community that holds a special place in our hearts.

It is with great joy and a deep sense of purpose that we announce the ongoing Cambodia Medical Mission 2023, scheduled from August 7th to August 11th. For two decades now, IHM has been committed to extending a helping hand to the less privileged communities, and this year is no exception. We are thrilled to share our mission details and invite you to join us in making a difference in the lives of those in need.

August 7: Co Ho Resettled Community

We begin our mission by reaching out to the resilient souls of the Co Ho community, nestled between Kampong Chhnang and Kampong Luong. Their stories of courage inspire us to serve them better.

August 8: Kampong Luong – A Village on Water

Life flourishes amidst the waters of Kampong Luong, and so does our commitment to providing holistic healthcare. The unique challenges of this community only fuel our determination to make a difference.

a patient child in the IHM Medical Mission 2023

August 9 & 10: Kampong Chhnang – Education and Empowerment

Our journey continues in Kampong Chhnang, where we not only set up clinics but also engage with the local school and the Tri An village. Education meets healthcare as we stand by our promise of comprehensive care.

Dr. Cuong and Dr. Brian, conducting CPR training for the students and locals living on the Tonle Sap Lake, first time ever. After the session, one of the girls came up and said that what she learned could have saved her sister.

It’s a poignant reminder of why we need to keep on doing what we have been doing here for the past 4 years and why we need to focus on educating the children. It’s for the well-being of everyone in the community.

August 11: Phnom Penh’s Vietnamese Neighborhood

The bustling streets of Phnom Penh hold their own stories. We’re honored to extend our services to the Vietnamese neighborhood, embracing the diversity that Cambodia offers.

August 11: Phnom Penh’s Vietnamese Neighborhood

The bustling streets of Phnom Penh hold their own stories. We’re honored to extend our services to the Vietnamese neighborhood, embracing the diversity that Cambodia offers.

As we administer care through our mobile clinics, we’re not just offering immediate relief. Our mission extends to understanding the health dynamics of the region. The data we gather will serve as a beacon guiding us towards a more informed approach to medical care. Just as in the most rigorous clinical studies, we ensure that our analysis maintains the highest standards of precision and compassion.

Throughout this mission, our dedicated team tirelessly served a staggering 2,292 patients, with 311 receiving essential dental care and 978 benefiting from vital eye care services. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our major donors who made this mission possible: Americares, contributing an incredible $170,000 worth of medications, Alcon CaresKNL FoundationMAP International, Ampharco, and the countless individual donors who joined hands with us to make this transformative journey a reality.

Join Hands with IHM

None of this would be possible without your unwavering support. Your donations, your encouragement, and your belief in our cause fuel our determination to create a healthier, brighter future for these deserving communities.

Let’s stand united in our commitment to transforming lives. Join us on this journey of compassion and change. Your contribution matters. Your support makes a difference.

Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this life-changing mission. Together, we can write stories of hope and healing in the hearts of Cambodia’s children and families.

Thank you for making this journey with us.