World Concern and Medical Teams International are working together in Myanmar facilitating the support of medical teams, essential drug supply, dead body disposal and plans for trauma recovery support. Together, the agencies are taking a lead role in providing training, technical assistance and resources to more than 50 in-country non-governmental and volunteer organizations.
"One of the most urgent and heart-rending needs is to care for the dead," said World Concern Relief Director Merry Fitzpatrick. "While our need to focus on the living is urgent, survivors are immensely stressed by the daily sight of the uncollected dead.
"Members on our team have experience with collecting and properly disposing of large numbers of human bodies with dignity," said Fitzpatrick. "It is a sad and gruesome job, but one the survivors themselves have given a priority, so we are respecting that desire."
The removal of dead bodies in some areas is impeding mental health recovery.
In addition to providing immediate relief supplies and health care, World Concern and Medical Teams International are working with families to rebuild their lives and livelihoods. Many farmers and fishermen lost nearly everything in the cyclone.
World Concern and Medical Teams International plan to assist families by providing irrigation systems, livestock, clean water, boats, nets and other needed training and supplies that will help families rebuild through the years to come.
