Canadian Red Cross bringing hospital to typhoon area
Group of 12 workers bringing equipment to help hundreds of people a day
A group of Red Cross staff are leaving Wednesday to help people in the Philippines cope with aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan.
The Canadian Red Cross’ field hospital, which can treat up to 300 people a day, is en route to help doctors and nurses struggling to treat the sick and injured after the storm struck on Friday.
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Nurse Patrick Raymond, who has been to Chad and Mozambique with the Red Cross, is one of 12 medical and support workers going to the Philippines.
He said at a news conference in Ottawa he feels like it’s his duty.
“We just feel that we need to go and help people and do the best we can do for the people who are in need,” he said.
'It is getting very emotional'
With a conformed death toll of over 2,000 people, Dr. Danielle Perrault said she knows they’re going into a very difficult situation.
“It is getting very emotional, but the thing is we're a team and we'll be able to support each other,” she said.
Laureen Harper was on hand at the news conference to say thanks to the staff.
“We're pulling for you. I don't want to say have a good time, but I know you're going to help thousands of people, and you're going to have amazing stories when you come back,” she said.
“So from all Canadians, thank you guys.”
Red Cross hospital to stay up to 4 months
The 70-bed field hospital will stay in the country for four months, with the first team of 12 staying for four weeks before being replaced.
They’ll be leaving Canada for Manila on Wednesday before figuring out where the greatest need is for their field hospital.
The Canadian Red Cross is being helped with the $3.5 million cost of the mission by the federal government and international Red Cross.
They are one of many charities participating in a program with the federal government, which is matching cash donations untilDec. 9.
Most charities say cash is the most effective way to help typhoon victims because it best translates into on-the-ground aid.