ONE HEART - MANY HANDS JOINS HEART TO HEART INTERNATIONAL ON ADVANCE LOGISTICS TEAM TO CHILE

-Medical Relief Organization prepares for additional needs in Pacific Islands-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, February 27, 2010

Olathe, KS - Heart to Heart International President and Founder Gary Morsch, M.D., M.P.H., issued the following statement today relative to the 8.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Chile overnight:

“We have initiated efforts to secure a first-hand assessment of the severity of the damage and establish protocol for delivering medical and humanitarian aid that may be needed in Chile and other locations as a result of last night’s earthquake. In much the same way as Heart to Heart responded in the hours following the January 12 quake in Haiti, we are anticipate having ‘boots on the ground’ in Chile as soon as Monday morning.

“Among the leaders of our advance logistics team in Chile will be George Sisler, president of our sister organization, One Heart – Many Hands. Sisler, who is based in Ohio, grew up in Santiago and is a veteran of international relief and recovery missions. Most recently, George accompanied Heart to Heart staff and volunteers in Haiti, coordinating logistics in the establishment of clinics and guiding medical teams throughout that country. It is our expectation that Heart to Heart will continue with a presence in Haiti for the next 3 to 5 years.

“Meanwhile, if necessary, Heart to Heart is prepared to redirect our advance logistics efforts to Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam or other locations throughout the world where our medical staff may be needed as a result of tsunami, aftershocks, etc.

“Licensed physicians, nurses, medical assistants and pharmacists who may be interested in volunteering in Haiti, Chile, and other international locations as needed are encouraged to register on the website: www.hearttoheart.org  Donations may also be made on that website.”