Networking and collaboration are a hallmark of Rotary as evidenced by the friendships and relationships that form within individual Rotary Club dynamics.  Sometimes that same synergy forms between Rotarians on a global scale to meet urgent humanitarian needs.  Such is the case with a recent cooperation between the Rotary Club of Lancaster and the International Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals (IRFHP).

 

Dr. Bob McClenathan, an optometrist, Past-President of RC of Lancaster and member of IRFHP, learned of the needs in Ukraine related to the unprovoked incursion by Russian military forces and the horrendous injuries caused by indiscriminate shelling of civilian targets in addition to military ones.  Hundreds of hospitals, medical facilities and pharmacies have been intentionally destroyed! In light of the destruction of healthcare infrastructure and the tremendous need for medical care, the IRFHP is seeking various medical instruments and accessories to alleviate suffering there.

 

The Rotary Club of Lancaster, its individual members, and District 7390 (through the discretionary use of its contingency funds) provided nearly $20,000 in funding towards the purchase of orthopedic instruments, screws, plates and pins for treatment of shattered skeletal structures.  Through a convoluted pathway, involving Rotarians in the USA, United Kingdom, Poland, and Ukraine, as well as international fund transfers and international commerce, these rehabilitative materials are mending bones and lives in the war torn country near the front lines in the Dnipro area.  Rotary has a long reach and a loving heart and Rotarians are providing “Service above Self” around the world.

 

Submitted by

Dr. Bob McClenathan

Past President, Rotary Club of Lancaster

Co-Chair, Global Grants Committee