Depilex Smileagain Foundation (DSF) organised a ceremony recently to mark the successful treatment of 29 burnt victims. The event was attended by parliamentarians, media, and survivors of violence. The 29 victims were treated through the support of Philip Morris (Pakistan) Limited (PMPKL). Between the years 2007 and 2012, 786 incidents of burnt victims either by acid or kerosene oil were recorded.
To cater to this reality Depilex Smileagain Foundation helped female survivors and victims of acid and kerosene oil burns in Pakistan by providing them appropriate medical attention and reconstructive surgery, psychological and psychiatric support, shelter and vocational training.
DSF has more than 450 registered victims out of which 150 have been successfully treated. A team of surgeons from American, British, French and Italy visit Pakistan on regular bases to perform reconstructive surgery. Team of local surgeons support the foreign doctors and carry out post-operative procedures and after care. Complicated burn cases are sent abroad for reconstructive surgeries.
Speaking on the occasion founder President of DSF Masarrat Misbah said "We at the Foundation, since the organisation's formal inception in 2003, have devoted ourselves to this vital issue that challenges life's very existence. By the grace of the Almighty, our efforts heightened so has the public awareness and support. We are thankful to partners like Philip Morris Pakistan; who came forth to support our fight against domestic violence."
DSF is registered with 12 hospitals across Pakistan for OPDs, referrals and surgeries: Jinnah Hospital Lahore, General Hospital Lahore, Mayo Hospital Lahore, National Hospital Lahore, Patel Hospital Karachi, Indus Hospital Karachi, Civil Hospital Karachi, CMH Rawalpindi, PIMS Islamabad, Khyber Hospital Peshawar, Allied Hospital Faisalabad, Bolan Hospital Quetta.
As a result of efforts made by DSF and partner civil society organisations, laws protecting women from domestic violence as well as acid burn crimes have been passed. DSF is now building a pressure group for strict implementation of the laws banning none prescribed sale of acid and planning to institutionalise the much needed support to the victims of domestic violence.
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