2006 brought forth not only a team of ophthalmologists, but also new comer and now veteran Melinda Mustgrave, a reconstructive Surgeon from St. Michael’s Hospital.
The first year’s success brought about an enormous influx of interest amongst medical and non-medical personnel within the community and as such, a larger space was required. With assistance from Bago City, Negros Occidental Philippines a new work environment awaited the 2006 team upon their return to the Philippines. That which allocated for the capacity to address the needs of a larger population.
Including of which are 150 mothers with their children from outlying areas around Bago City, seeking any form of assistance from the team.
The following day a portion of the team was able to visit The Capuchin Tertiary Sisters of the Holy Family Girl’s Orphanage. It’s aim was to assist girls as young as 8 who sought refuge from abusive environments. Their time at the Capuchin enabled for an equal opportunity learning experience for both the Urban Angels and the young women residing at the Capuchin.
Back at the hospital the reconstructive team dealt with children with cleft pallets and burn patients varying of age. One of which was a young woman who unknowingly walked through a newly burned corn field, causing 3rd degree burns on 60% of her body disabling any movement from the waist down. The surgery took over 5 hours to clean and release the once constricted muscles behind the legs which would enable her to regain leg movement.