With hospitals located several hours away, Bangladesh’s marginalised inhabitants struggle to reach the nearest doctor. Often they cant afford basic medical aid.
We bring free medical aid directly to the people.
Founded in 2002, Friendship converted a barge into a fully-equipped hospital ship. We now have a fleet of 3 hospital ships as well as other rural medical centres. We serve communities on shifting river islands in the north and the coastal areas of the Bay of Bengal, considered amongst the most underprivileged and remote communities in the world.
Everyday people in remote communities die from preventable diseases. A relatively simple operation is often all that is needed to save or dramatically improve a life.
$65 helps restore a persons sight after cataract surgery
$80 enables a child to walk after a club-foot operation
« I can now see everything again”
Nazrul Islam (75 years old) was bedridden. With severe cataracts in both eyes, he was completely blind and unable to work to support his family. Although a relatively simple operation, Nazrul couldn’t afford the cataract surgery. Instead, he spent his earnings on the family’s home after it was destroyed several times due to land erosion forcing them to move on several occasions.After learning about the free cataract operations offered by Friendship, Nazrul signed up for surgery. His vision was fully restored in one eye and partially in the other eye. He also received free post-operative care and medication.
“Alamin can walk!”
Alamin, 4 years old, was born with severe clubfoot leaving him unable to walk. His parents couldn’t afford medical treatment. After hearing about an NGO offering free clubfoot operations, hopeful the family traveled to the nearest Friendship hospital. Alamin’s condition was assessed and doctors gave the green light to proceed with surgery. “We’re grateful for Friendship’s help”, said his mother. “Now, Alamin can hope to lead a healthy life and walk.” Thanks to your donations, we’re able to offer children like Alamin the operation, post-operative care and medication free of charge.