Many viewers ask: How can I help Igor build his hospital? How can we help the people of the Ukraine?
Henry Marsh: I am visiting the U.S. on a fundraising lecture tour in October. Details of how donations can be made to help Igor build his hospital can be found on the film's website. I am hoping to establish a charitable fund in the USA to which donations for Igor can be made but have not yet organized this. I will make sure news about this is posted on the film's website once it is done. See the screening page on the film's website for more information.
Jamie from New York asks: Dr. Marsh says he finds it difficult to envision how electrical activity in the brain fibers he observes can constitute thought, even though it is a fact that they do. A philosopher has suggested that an understanding of how the physical activity of brain function can be responsible for our experiential world may simply be something we lack the capacity to understand. Do you agree? Does it matter if this remains in some sense mysterious, so long as neuroscience can advance in other ways?
Marsh: Philosophers who suggest that we cannot understand our own brains have been called "mysterions"! One can never predict the future — could the Ancient Greeks have foreseen cars and electricity? Maybe in the future we will "understand how our brains work" but progress in scientific understanding, however, is based on experimentation and there are limits as to how much we can experiment on our own brains so I suspect we will never be in a position to know, or not know, whether we can "understand" how our brains work or not. Nevertheless, I find the fact that my consciousness, my feeling of "self" as I write these words, is a physical process of electro-chemistry, deeply puzzling and extraordinary. I think the main implications of all this — deeply unpopular as it must be! — is that life after death is unlikely and that animals think ( after a fashion) and feel as do we, although lack the power of speech, complex analysis and planning for the future. We cannot measure consciousness so we cannot know whether animals are "conscious" or not — it seems reasonable to me to assume that they are but I doubt if we will ever know for certain.
James from Michigan asks: Mr. Marsh, Are you finding it harder for yourself to return to the Ukraine year after year after seeing the seemingly hopeless conditions? Have you witnessed any improvements in medical care for these people?
Marsh: No — not at all. Igor's problems, and his patients' problems, make me all the more determined to continue to help him for as long as I can. I continue to go out to Ukraine on a regular basis every few months. It's in my vacation time so I cannot go as often as I would like.
Amy from Arizona asks: Dr Marsh — Ever since I saw this, I have been dying to know your opinion about nationalized healthcare. We are having a huge debate in America about this issue, and I would love to know what your thoughts are regarding this issue. I personally am against nationalization, though I do support healthcare reform. As someone who lives, works, and deals with a nationalized system, what do you think?
Marsh: A BIG question! Most European healthcare systems are, in effect, "socialized" — either by being funded by direct taxation or by compulsory insurance. The British NHS is not unique and has , anyway, quite a large insurance-based private healthcare sector — about 13-14% of the population. In other words, people can choose to spend money on insurance premiums for private healthcare, without losing their entitlement to "socialized healthcare. Like most surgeons in the U.K., I work in both State and private hospitals. The American healthcare system is characterized by being absolutely wonderful at its best, incredibly expensive, and not very sympathetic or helpful to poorer people. What is more important? That rich people should get very good healthcare or that poor people should get reasonable basic healthcare? This is all complicated by lifestyle issues as well — poor people tend to live unhealthier lives than rich people and die younger, etc. I am sure the U.S. can do better than at present but the really big problem is how to reduce healthcare costs. In the last analysis I think a "socialized" healthcare system is more humane than a purely private one, but there is no reason why one can't run the two in tandem, as happens in the U.K.
Eriko from Illinois: In your opinion, is there a higher incidence of brain tumors per capita in Ukraine compared to the rest of Europe? Do you think that the Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident or other environmental factors might have caused some of the brain tumors you have seen in Ukraine?
Marsh: Almost certainly not. Brain tumours are not caused by radiation exposure as far as we know. The epidemiological statistics for diseases in Ukraine both before and after Chernobyl are unreliable, but as far as I can tell the tumours I see in Ukraine are the same as in the West, only bigger. (Just like the fish in the cooling ponds for the now derelict reactors at Chernobyl. I am told that the fish in the ponds are living the life of Riley and are exceptionally large though presumably radioactive, and have grown enormous since they are no longer fished).
Talk About This
Leave your question in the comments below.Dr. Marsh says he finds it difficult to envision how electrical activity in the brain fibers he observes can constitute thought, even though it is a fact that they do. A philosopher has suggested that an understanding of how the physical activity of brain function can be responsible for our experiential world may simply be something we lack the capacity to understand. Do you agree? Does it matter if this remains in some sense mysterious, so long as neuroscience can advance in other ways?
by Jamie from New York, New York
September 8, 2009, 11:16 PM
mr marsh
i am grateful that you and your colleague have allowed the public to see you at your work, and that you indeed pursue it.
having had a craniotomy 22 years ago [large abcess at motor nerves] i wonder at the literature which says old and new nerves take over for those lost, while i still sustain residual [r] hemiparesis. [yes, i pursued all physical therapy offered, and indeed continued to ride horseback until 7 years ago, and now to 'do my exercises', but the works still don't seem to be able to 'remember'].
of course, not everyone regains what they had, but i wonder if you know of some new therapy?
thank you so much,
lin
by lin hersh from bearsville, ny
September 8, 2009, 11:36 PM
What drives you?
Although you aren't a spring chicken, my observation cues me into saying
that you are a young student in this extremely hard profession.
Does the new odyssey into learning something new everytime
drIve you or is it the satisfaction of helping a human being pull through
something out of their control? Thank you for your time.
by Rudy from Ossining, NY
September 8, 2009, 11:38 PM
The children
It is inexcusable that Ukrain allows their children to go blind when they could provide the imaging free. Why don't imaging companies like GE get involved? There must be something that they could do.
by Randall from Dover, NJ
September 8, 2009, 11:42 PM
Motivation
As a scientist, I should say that my biggest motivation is competition: the desire to be the best, or at least better than others around me. What motivates you?
by Rishi from Dayton, OH
September 8, 2009, 11:54 PM
Mr.
I really was unable to stop watching this show tonight. For some years I have wondered why my father, a doctor, never encouraged his children to pursue medicine as a career. It took this documentary to perhaps understand why. My late in life attempt to follow in his footsteps ended a few years ago, with much regret. However, tonight I am comforted. I could not cope with the emotions. Thank God for people like you who can. No questions.
by David from Tulsa, OK
September 8, 2009, 11:55 PM
Is there any way one can help Igor get his hospital? I would like to do something,anything to help him and the people you and he are trying to save. Please tell us what we can do to help.
by dolores stephens from coraopolis, pa
September 9, 2009, 12:02 AM
Inspired
It should shame us to complain about our healthcare here in the states. We are so blessed.
Dr. Marsh you truly are a saint. Not many doctors do what you do. Money and their time is far more important to them than those in need.
It touched my heart to see your compassion and love for this country and it's people. I pray God grant you more years full of health to keep helping with your time and knowledge. I pray that God increase your wisdom. That there be more doctors like you.
Most of all what can we do? How can we help with making that field of dreams into a wonderful hospital where children will not have to wait so long that they go blind or it be too late?
Thank you for what you do. And to other doctors who like you give more than they take.
by Xochitl from Oklahoma City, OK
September 9, 2009, 12:06 AM
Human being
You are a good man Henry Marsh. Please let us know what we can do help you and the people of Ukraine.
by Carolyn from Omaha, NE
September 9, 2009, 12:07 AM
it aint Doctor.
May God and the world be with you,
Dr. Marsh, I was awed and inspired, mesmerized and captivated. I look to the world every ten years or so for a sign, something to give me hope in humanity. This time it was you and Dr Petrovich. You guys are amazing fellows; I can’t find a word to fit, so I’ll say driven and talented, experienced and daring. Thank you so much for allowing us into your world and even a little into your head and theirs. (No pun intended, well maybe a bit.) I am proud to be human in light of what you folks are doing out there. The bravery is a thing of legend. The humanity is a thing of saints. I salute you and Dr. Petrovich on your ongoing work. I’m American and sometimes I think certain things are insurmountable. After seeing the Ukraine, my issues are petty and quite manageable.
Once again thank you for the spark, the hope and the reassurances that human beings are caring and genuine. We need a million you and a million Petrovich’s. May God hear my prayers.
Respectfully,
Frank Candelario
njcandela67@yahoo.com
by Frank Candelario from North Arlington, NJ
September 9, 2009, 12:10 AM
Onology Nurse
I am so enjoying the program on the Ukraine. I worked there with the Chernobyl children in 1992 and 1996. You have indeed captured the spirit of the wonderful Ukrainian people. My memories of all the children under age 14 that we tried to assist with suffering from various effects of radiation, malnutrition, and environmental pollution in the western Ukraine and Kiev. I truly understand the dilemma of "telling the truth" and removing any sense of hope. At least in the US, if we can offer nothing else, we can at least offer pain relief and hospice. Did you find that there was any other functional support system other than the family? I speak Russian, and a little Ukrainian, and I found that the Ukrainians touched my heart.
by Wendy Mutunhu, RN from Tampa, Florida
September 9, 2009, 12:23 AM
how can i help
I was wondering if money is the answer to the people of the ukraine? if so,where can i send money to those poor people?
by nathaniel from fort worth, tx
September 9, 2009, 1:23 AM
What Can I do To Help?
That was a great story, what can I do to help? I think i could raise 6,000 dollars to contribute to a new hospital on a frozen plain, that would be 600 of my own money and the rest i would raise from contributions. Someone out there has to give me a little kick in the butt though... I mean this is the first post I've made with this email address and I don't have as many contacts as I used to. I will setup an account in a local savings bank but I need a little help as to where do i send stuff and to who? THANKS FOR THE GREAT SHOW! and any support anyone might send. Now that i have a new "clean" email account I would enjoy some email from the "Net". To up the anney I might just fly over to the Ukraine and deliver any money the account receives myself. Danny Farmer farml8@windstream.net
by Danny Farmer from Wilber, Nebraska
September 9, 2009, 1:34 AM
Returning Student
I was impressed with your ability to tackle a very difficult job, yet you have continued to keep trying. The tools your friend had to use, I use in my home to repair broken house hold problems. I was a Paramedic, and I am working on getting into Respiratory therapy here in Utah. I can't imagine what it would be to have to work in the Ukraine. I pray that with your example more people will reach out to help.
Sincerely Linden
by Linden Schmid from Bountiful, Utah
September 9, 2009, 2:53 AM
I always am drawn to watch all programs about Ukraine. I am not Ukrainian, but accompanied my husband to his homeland in 1989. We have hosted children affected by Chernobyl in our home, as well as a man who had hoped to receive a covering over his brain since something had fallen on his head and damaged his scull. I have tried to help Americans who have adopted a child from Ukraine. I am so glad to see how many people have responded to this film with offers of help: they realize that Ukraine needs help, much help. And it is not because the Ukrainian government does not help that things are so bad. It is because this is the legacy still today of Stalin and the Soviet Socialist System, whose only goal was to industrialize the country without regard to providing the other necessities we in the West take for granted.
trolled G.I
by Kristina Efimenko from Paradise Valley, Arizona
September 9, 2009, 3:16 AM
hello dr marsh i saw your show by accident last night and it kept me watching! i had a benign tumor on my brain stem removed in dec 2008. everything went well except now i am having trouble talking when i get tired. its the right side of me. i have trouble writing also, i do mostley everything with my left hand.. i am going to speech therapy.. its almost been a year, do you think it will stay with me or will it get better? my surgeon is like you, he goes to other countries to help them! he kept saying to me "thank god your in the u.s." i am grateful i am still alive because of him! just want to ask that question. and tell you to keep doing what your doing! the show showed me there are people worse off! and there are people lke you who help! thank you!! laura
by laura pavlik from HOLTSVILLE, NY
September 9, 2009, 9:19 AM
Public Servant
Dear Dr. Marsh:
1. Documentary was television at its very best. So interesting, moving and thought-provoking.
2. Thank you for the work you do for humanity.
3. Thank you for allowing the film-makers to follow you, and thanks to the person who made this documentary.
4. Here in America, we are constantly reminded by our self-serving politicians that they are "public servants." This always makes me smirk, because to be a senator in America, or a governor of a state, or a general legislator means being put in a position of great power, influence and prestige. There is not a day's public service in any of them. YOU however, are truly a public servant -- making your own contribution, one day at a time, to help others.
5. You are a fine person.
Mary Fox
by Mary E. Fox from East Hartford, Connecticut
September 9, 2009, 10:29 AM
The documentary I viewed last night was one of the finest and most thought provoking that I have ever seen. Bravo to all who were involved.
by Susan Davis from Wellington, Florida
September 9, 2009, 11:24 AM
The English Surgeon: How to help?
Your work, your dedication, your humanity are deeply inspiring! I have been keeping up with the fascinating research related to brain "plasticity," but to see "awake" surgery! What a stupendous development! I was so moved by your evident suffering in the face of inoperable tumors! Bless you for continuing this work.
Now...how can I help? I will certainly donate money if I find out how, but it can't be very much. However, when I learned that only $50 buys a vital piece of equipment in Ukraine. Well! My own skills are mostly in the English (American) language and literature before I retired. I am a skilled editor. I am not too far from Seattle.
Thank you for your great work!
by Margaret Rooker from Walnut Creek, CA
September 9, 2009, 12:36 PM
Mr. Marsh, Are you finding it harder for yourself to return to the Ukraine year after year after seeing the seemingly hopeless conditions? Have you witnessed any improvements in medical care for these people? I truly believed it when you told of how you fell in love with this country and it's people. Such beautiful and humble people who still manage to smile in the face of such adversity. You sir are a true inspiration to humanity. Thank you for your time.
by James Rann from Owosso, Michigan
September 9, 2009, 9:48 PM
Hi,doctor! My daughter has anaplastic astrocytoma. She took radiation 6 weeks (5940 cGy) and chemotherapy "Temodar"(44 days 140mg). Right now she has 4 weeks break.During radiation her brain tumor was bigger than before treatment.Our doctors explained that it is pseudo-progress.What do you think? What is your opinion? Have we chance that my daughter will be healthy?
Marina Lee
by Marina Lee from Flushing, NEW YORK
September 9, 2009, 10:57 PM
Amazing how selfish we are!
I've been working across countries and have helped in different ways with my church and being on mission fields. But it's been years since those days. I wish I could say money could be the answer and yet it can't bring back those who have perished due to late diagnosis or are suffering without able to do anything.
It's sad how we are fighting for health care here in America and we are angry because we don't have the best plan, the money, and yet in another world people struggle having nothing. We all have our opinion and I don't mean to ramble.
All I can say is if there is a way for myself, the people I know, the God I serve to give me the strength to understand and help in the mission to help others outside my selfish world, what would the steps need to be taken?
If an average person like myself can give, then tell me how I can help!
To Your health and those that come across to helping others.
Steve
by Steve Satre from Nashville, TN
September 10, 2009, 3:30 AM
Little girl with little time left
Dr. Marsh,
On the documentary,there was a lady who had come into your office to ask about the diagnosis of her little girl. The little girl's x-ray showed the the tumor had spread beyond surgical help, and the little girl was not expected to live long. Is there any way that I can make donation to that family, or to that hopital where you were? I want to do something to prevent other little girls from recieving that kind of prognosis. Please. I wont feel right If I don't do something. Let me know what I can do.
by richard Stewart from riverhead, NY
September 10, 2009, 2:57 PM
Bless both of you
Dear Dr. Marsh and Igor,
Thank you so so so much for what you both did, do and will do for Ukraine. Thank you for helping us all to believe in humanity and becoming better people. I so much agree with your last statement " if we don't help others, we are nothing really". I am a native of Russia with Ukranian roots, I've been living in the States for 13 years now. I have been to Ukraine twice and love the country and its people. I know for a fact conditions in Russian, especially provincial hospitals are as dismal as they are in Ukraine. I would love to help out in any way possible, including financially, please, let me know what I can do. Can we organize a non-profit organization to help improve hospitals and hospital care in former Soviet Union republics? Again, dyakuy, spasibo!
by Victoria from Provo, UT
September 10, 2009, 6:27 PM
Thank Yoy
Dear Dr. Marsh and Dr Petrovitch,
I am struggling to find the rights words to
convey my feelings regarding your work
in the Ukraine. I am overcome with feelings
In short, you have inspired me.
Thank you very much
by Margaret from Bronx, New York
September 10, 2009, 8:30 PM
Really so bad?
I am originally from Ukraine and have lived in the US now for a while. Thank you for your great work, Dr. Marsh! You are really inspiring and do a lot for the patients. I was struck though at how the documentary portrayed Ukraine's medical system as somewhat primitive. After all, there are lots of healthcare professionals in the country, and Soviet medicine was not at all subpar. Do you find that the obstacles you face are specific to complex neurosurgery or more a reflection of the general deterioration in the quality of care?
by Bogdan from Philadelphia, PA
September 10, 2009, 10:38 PM
Retiree
I thank God for you and your energy. I thank God for your intelligence and persistence. I was wondering about the two different last names of the Ukrainian physician. Do you believe his life will ever have relief from all the stresses outside of the stress of his profession?
by Marsha Abernathy from Paradise, Texas
September 10, 2009, 11:54 PM
Hope
God bless you Dr. Marsh and Doctor Igor P. - keep up the good work. What a sad but necessary PBS program. Please feel free to contact us, we have some ideas about how we could possibly help.
by Drake Family from Doylestown, PA
September 11, 2009, 9:50 AM
Retired
I was especially moved by the plight of 23 year old Ulyana. A beautiful woman in her prime who should have had the opportunity to have a family and a decent life. Now, relatively poor and with no hope of survival.
I would like to send money to you to be forwarded to this woman or, directly to her or her family, in the hope that she might at least enjoy a better standard of life for the few remaining years she has remaining.
Dr. Marsh, please give me an address where I can send monies in this regard.
With the greatest respect,
Robert Borrell
Watertown, MN 55388
by Robert Borrell from St. Louise Park, MN
September 11, 2009, 3:01 PM
Ulyana - can she be treated in Europe?
Dr. Marsh -
Wonderful program and amazing work - brings me to thinking of the many doctors like you, Paul Farmer, using your extordinary talent to go beyond a life of Western comfort to help those who need it most.
Regarding Ulyana - Could she be treated in Europe for her brain tumor with hope of a decent outcome? So many are asking what they can do...perhaps donate airline miles so she and her mother could fly to a region better equiped to handle. Could you do this suryger in England?
Where there is a will there is a way...
maybe not in all cases...but in those where its primary money that stands in the way, there is hope.
Tricia
by Tricia from Madison, WI
September 11, 2009, 11:46 PM
Ulyana - can she be treated in Europe?
Dr. Marsh -
Wonderful program and amazing work - brings me to thinking of the many doctors like you, Paul Farmer, using your extordinary talent to go beyond a life of Western comfort to help those who need it most.
Regarding Ulyana - Could she be treated in Europe for her brain tumor with hope of a decent outcome? So many are asking what they can do...perhaps donate airline miles so she and her mother could fly to a region better equiped to handle. Could you do this suryger in England?
Where there is a will there is a way...
maybe not in all cases...but in those where its primary money that stands in the way, there is hope.
Tricia
by Tricia from Madison, WI
September 11, 2009, 11:47 PM
The English Dr
Dear Dr. Marsh, I was riveted to this prog tonight. What an incredible, compassionate, generous human being you are (& Dr.Igor Petrovich too). I guess America isn't the only country in dire need of health care reform! (1)What can we do to help you with your mission? (2) How can we donate? (3) How can we make sure Dr. Igor gets our support w/out his political enemies ruining his new hospital plans? (4) WHY does he have enemies? (It sounds like Dr. Zhivago battling the typhus cover-up & beaucratic red tape! Things haven't changed much for true reformers! You are WONDERFUL. I cried my eyes out & emailed all my friends to watch this!
by Laura from Sacramento, CA
September 12, 2009, 1:24 AM
Humbled and Inspired
Dr. Marsh and Dr. Petrovich,
Your compassion and devotion to help people, as well as the personal sacrifices made to do so are truly humbling to any person including myself. My only hope is that I could become half the selfless person that you both are.
by Andy Pearle from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
September 12, 2009, 3:56 AM
Dear Dr Marsh,
The documentary aired in my area last week and I have not been able to get it off my mind. I was particularly moved by the plight of the 3 year old girl who lost her eyesight because of an undiagnosed benign tumor. Is there anything - anything at all that could be done to restore her sight?
Thank you for your heroic efforts. I hope you will continue to tackle cases like Tanya, in spite of the extreme risks.
Kind regards,
by Russell aycock from dallas, tx
September 12, 2009, 5:00 PM
Dr
Dear Dr Marsh,
I wish I had known of you and your selfless work before I left medicine in 1990. The American system is so full of politics, I just finally gave up.. You keep going sir, and never stop, never give up.
With warmest regard, and heartfelt thanks - you have restored a part of my faith in man,
Beth Della Piana
by Beth Della Piana from Amesbury, MA
September 12, 2009, 8:34 PM
The English Surgeon
Dear Doctor Marsh, Thank you for the work that you do. I happened to tune into the POV program on PBS tonight.
I would like to ask your advise. My Grandaughter has been showing sympthoms that may indicate a tumor on her pituitary gland. She is 11 now, and we have been visiting doctors since Tyra was 7 years old. All medical tests have been inconclusive. I am afraid that there is a tumor growing, and it will be too large to be surgericaly removed if and when they find it.
Tyra's latest complaint is complete visual blackouts, for seconds at a time.
Could you please give me some advice as to how to best advocate for Tyra's continued medical care. She has good medical insurance. What questions should I ask her doctors?
Thank you so much.
Sincerely,
Lisa Walker
Sacramento, California
by Lisa Walker from Sacramento, California
September 13, 2009, 3:25 AM
Fufillment
Mr.Marsh,
The fact that you are a hero in your own right and an inspiration to many has already been stated. If you don't mind, I have a question for you: have accomplished everything you wanted to do in life?
God bless you and continue your extraordinary work,
Ritthy Son
by Ritthy Son
September 13, 2009, 2:17 PM
the English Doctor
Dear Dr.Marsh:
The decisions to perform surgery or not, the many occasions when no possible treatment can be offered, must be very difficult and weigh heavily upon the heart. With compassion I offer this support: A life of service is a life worth living. Compassionate service to others brings dignity of purpose to life and nobility. May GOD bless you and reward you hundredfold.
Respectfully, Rosemary Vrscay
by Rosemary Vrscay from Kitchener, Ontario Canada
September 14, 2009, 12:45 AM
THE English surgon
DEAR Dr Marsh,after watching your program i noticed how short of medical supplies there are in russia,in the United States we have become a disposable society,after being in the hospital myself,I find it upsetting to see so many medical instruments,and other hospital supplies that are disguarded that can be safely reused if sterilized.maybe there can be something done so more medical supplies could be used to help so many people,and hospitals in other countries,I asked a doctor why this is,his answer shocked me,he said is is more cost effective,I wondered if they stopped useing autoclaves. and god bless for all you are trying to do and continued success,I know in your story you had some medical equipment that was perfectly reuseable,if there is something i can do across the pond please let me know,yours respectfully james m bevins
by james m bevins from DENVER, PENNSYLVANIA
September 14, 2009, 1:13 AM
Marine Veteran
Dear Sir:
I just happened to be up when your show was aired but only found it during the last 45 minutes.It always makes me wonder how politics came come into play when theres lives at stake.As a former Marine Ive seen my fair share of injustices in this world that we all share.Its too bad that we all cant agree that we need to get along to survive and that our children are our future.My wife and I had a son a few months ago and he had two heart defects among other problems.He was a week old when they went in to fix his defects and Im in total awe how at a week old, a baby can withstand a surgery like that.He will be going in this coming tuesday to have surgery again and it will be very trying for me but I must show total confidence as my wife is ready to break down and I cant let her know that Im actually more scared for my son now then for my life at any time while in the Marine Corps.While I was in the military my life was in danger many times but it doesnt compare to the thought of losing my child.I can only imagine the pain of telling someone that their child will die and theres nothing that can be done about it.If there is an address or a point of contact possible I would be most honored to be able to offer support in anyway possible.Please let me know what can be done and I will be your humble servant and devoted volunteer.People like you that pocess these fantastic god given abilities are always to be listed as gods soldiers and are to be taken care of always God Bless and God speed.
by Dan from little rock, AR
September 14, 2009, 1:58 AM
how I can help ?
Dear Dr. Marsh: You and the ukranian doctor are heroes, how I can help, how I can send some money. What kind of equipment you need ? How is the Ukranian custom ? Do they allow easy entering of medical goods and equipment ?
Best Regards
Alfredo
by Alfredo Garcia from San Juan, Puerto Rico
September 14, 2009, 1:02 PM
Nationalized Healthcare vs. Privatized?
First of all, Dr. Marsh and Dr. Petrovich-- What amazing people you are. Thankyou for using your God-given talents to bless so many and doing what you can with what you have. What an inspiration and challenge to us all!!!
Dr Marsh-- Ever since I saw this, I have been dying to know your opinion about nationalized healthcare. We are having a huge debate in America about this issue, and I would love to know what your thoughts are regarding this issue. I personally am against nationalization, though I do support healthcare reform. As someone who lives, works, and deals with a nationalized system, what do you think?
Sincerely and With Respect,
Amy
by Amy from Buckeye, AZ
September 14, 2009, 5:30 PM
Dr Marsh, After watching the show on your work and reading the various comments, it is evident that everyone wants to help. Please tell us how we can help you increase your efforts.In the US there is a group called Operation Smile that works around the world to repair cleft pallets in children. The staff are all volunters,with medical equipment donated. Is something like this possible in your opinion? I know of several people willing to create this for you if you think we can get into the Ukraine. Please contact me if you think we can help. Thank you for being a great human being who cares.
by michael coggins from brandon, florida
September 15, 2009, 11:30 AM
Environmental factors and brain tumors
Dear Dr. Marsh,
In your opinion, is there a higher incidence of brain tumors per capita in Ukraine compared to the rest of Europe? Do you think that the Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident or other environmental factors might have caused some of the brain tumors you have seen in Ukraine?
Thank you for your example of love and service for mankind.
Eriko Kojima
by Eriko Kojima from Skokie, IL
September 15, 2009, 10:34 PM
I was very touched
God Bless you, Dr. Marsh. God Bless you, Dr. Petrovich. You are both models of compassion and humanitarianism. Please let me know how I can help Dr. Petrovich to build his hospital? Geoffrey Smith, brilliant work putting this together.
Bravo a tutti!
by Brendan from Orange, CA
September 16, 2009, 12:49 AM
The face of the mother
Dear Dr. Marsh & Dr. Petrovitch,
Thank you for the amazing work you are doing, with so little resources and funding. I can't get the picture out of my mind of that poor, grief-stricken mother, her hopeless face peering into the camera, just wanting her little daughter to get better.--And all the other people who aren't getting help, due to all the reasons you so clearly show us all. Everytime I think of the mother, of the others there, of your work, it breaks my heart. I'm so grateful someone is helping! How can I help this work?
Thank you for what you are doing!
Patty
by Patty from Vancouver, Canada
September 16, 2009, 8:51 AM
Brave
Dear Dr. Marsh, I felt like saying this after watching the documentary on Dutch tv, just in case you might ever read this: I think you are a very brave man. To know you can fail, but still go on, that takes courage. Same goes for Dr. Petrovitch. We are all human, and error is human. Even though you feel like you made a mistake so many years ago, you did go on, you did save so many after. Like you know so well it seems, I too believe that without hope, there is no life.
by Jorma from Amsterdam, The Netherlands
September 17, 2009, 6:48 PM
Mr.
I have just a quesion Mister Mash. I would like to help, i would like to thank YOU, and send some money. Not much, im unemployed. But after seeing the film i realised i want to do something for you and youre great collega in Oekrain. Please tell me how i can help. And THANK you very very much for doing this for all these poor people, i respect you SO much!
by Jack de Groof from Groningen, Netherlands
September 17, 2009, 7:42 PM
Truly Inspiring
Man's inhumaninity to man seemingly knows no bounds with new atrocities occuring in a never ending stream. It is truly heartwarming to hear of one talented and dedicated man making a difference in a country where most are struggling to eke out a living and health care is primitive at best. We in Canada and the United States could never imagine such conditions. He is a inspiration to all who would make the world a better place.
by William from Toronto, Canada
September 23, 2009, 4:17 PM
How to donate for Ur Holly work?
Dear Mr. Marsh,
Just finish to view film about U and Ur holly work for my neighbours!
How to donate for Ur scarified job? i mean donate some money for that pure, but not helpless people saving?
Thank U from All my heart for Ur holly job!
by Vasyl Svirskyj from L'viv, ua
September 24, 2009, 12:13 PM
AMAZING COINCIDENCE
Dear Henry,
I am a general surgeon in Nashville, Tennessee. In 2007 and 2008, I hosted Nickolae Bayazitov from Odessa, Ukraine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. For both trips he was in the U.S. for a one month period of time. On his first trip, we gave him some old laparoscopic equipment that he took back to Odessa Regional Hospital and performed the first laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the history of Odessa.
On his second trip to the U.S., he stayed in my home and we developed the same type friendship that you share with Igor Petrovitch. During that visit, we were able to meet the owner of a surgical instrument company and he donated approximately $60,000 of laparoscopic and standard surgical instruments to further Nickolae's work to help the people of Odessa.
The amazing coincidence is that I just returned from my first trip to Odessa during the first week of August. Nickolae and I did many cases together including the first laparoscopic ventral hernia repair possibly ever done in the Ukraine. A friend told me about your documentary on P.O.V. and it was an uncanny visual image of what I had seen and experienced only a few weeks earlier in Odessa. Thank you for sharing this important story that you and I have been privileged to see first hand.
If you get time, give me a shout via E-mail and maybe there would be a way we could collaborate on future trips to the Ukraine.
KIndest regards,
Chip Chambers
blcepc@comcast.net
by Dr. Chip Chambers from Nashville, TN
September 26, 2009, 2:56 PM
Wow
You are an amazing man, Dr. Marsh. (not to mention, quite the dish!) I just saw the POV show on the Internet and my goodness, what an impact it made. While watching it, I couldn't help but think how difficult a job you have. I always thought being a neurosurgeon would be a fascinating, sort of fun occupation but I now have a whole new appreciation for it. Oddly enough, not so much for the mechanics involved in performing the surgery or all the many years you've had to spend learning this stuff but for the decisions you must make on behalf of your patients. It must be unbelievably daunting to have to decide for them what's best for them when the price of your miscalculation is so high. You obviously feel bad about Tanya and about others whose surgery didn't go as planned but my heart went out to YOU when I saw this show. I just wanted to say please, please, don't fault yourself for any negative outcomes that might have occurred. You are a saint for doing what you do--for taking on that burden and trying to help people. Keep in mind that your sadness at what you see as your failures are not failures at all. They are ALL triumphs, no matter the outcome, because you did your best and your heart was/is in the right place, always. You are an example of what people SHOULD be. Thank you so much for showing us all how wonderful human beings can be and thank you for giving me faith in humankind. x
by Pamela Brown from New York, NY
September 26, 2009, 7:26 PM
Congratulations
Having lived for ten years in Ukraine---during which I had an excellent emergency C-section, an equally excellent appendectomy, and a successful visit to the "First-Aid Hospital" to fix a broken collarbone---I can vouch for the complete accuracy of this very moving portrait of both the country and its medical system. There is great heroism and generally amazing expertise among the doctors, given the terrible material insufficiencies and corruption they have to deal with. Equally there is a poignant grace and stoicalness about the Ukrainian people, compared to whom many in the West are simply barbarians.
For anyone who wants to help, there are many agencies already doing good work in hospitals and orphanages, e.g., www.cnewa.org, www.helpushelpthechildren.ca, even the Peace Corps.
One commenter asked about Dr. Ihor's two last names --- he has only one last name, starts with a K----, while the 'Petrovich' is a sort of middle name, signifying that he is the son of a man named Petro. It is an old custom in Orthodox countries, and was perpetuated in the Soviet Union.
As a professional translator/editor, I would give the subtitles a B+, and wish for Dr. Marsh that all his kind words during his consultations were fully translated for the patients.
But these are really minor remarks given that the overall picture is true, inspiring, and very beautiful.
by Lena from Edmonton, Canada
October 2, 2009, 2:21 AM
A role for neurology
Dear Mr. Marsh,
Would periodic visits to Kiev by a neurologist be helpful? I admire your work very much; thank you for making it public. It serves as a great inspiration.
Regards,
Marc Bouffard
by Marc Bouffard from Boston, Massachusetts
October 4, 2009, 11:35 PM
Advice
Dear Dr. Marsh,
The work you do in Uktraine is truly inspiring. Having been born in Eastern Europe myself, and having lost a twin brother to a broken medical system many years ago, I am especially touched by your efforts to improve healthcare in that part of the world. Thank you.
As a young medical student who dreams of changing the world, I am having a hard time figuring out where to start. Any words of wisdom?
Thanks again,
by Horia Vulpe from Montreal, Canada
October 5, 2009, 2:08 AM
Three questions
1. During The English Surgeon, you said, "the brain doesn't feel pain." Please, could you explain then what hurts when I have a migraine?
2. How can we help you with your work in the Ukraine?
3. Please, how does it help Ulyana not to tell her how sick she is? If she is going to suffer all the awful effects of the glioma, and then die, how does it help her cope with all that to not tell her what is going on? (I was never told my mother was dying of cancer, so I never understood how sick she was and was not very much help to her as a result.)
by Annie Reasoner from San Francisco, CA
October 9, 2009, 1:16 PM
The English Surgeon
You are truly a saint Dr. Marsh. I saw the PBS documentary and it did bring a tear to my eye. I pray God showers his blessings on Dr. Petrovich and you for your selfless work in those tough conditions.
by Ramdas Murali from Allen, TX
October 15, 2009, 8:30 PM