As 2024 draws to a close, we must steal a moment for reflection. The relentless change in the character of conflict and catastrophe around the world makes it difficult to occasionally stop and think.  

To think about the individuals and communities we have had the pleasure to connect with. To think about the supporters of the Foundation and all that they enable; our donors, our fundraisers, our partners, our trustees and the many volunteers. To think about our Faculty and my team, who put themselves at risk delivering training in some of the world’s most challenging environments. And of course, to think about the 2158 doctors we have trained since 2015, and the patients they have subsequently treated. With safe, skilled surgical care, these doctors are bringing hope to so many. 

Today, we think of the three Ukrainian surgeons who joined us for HEST-UK in Edinburgh a few weeks ago. They are back on the frontline and working 24/7 to save lives and limbs. We think about our Syrian Faculty, who have worked tirelessly since 2011 to mitigate the suffering of hundreds and thousands of victims in such a devastating war. We can just hope that, now the page has been turned on the Assad regime, new light is shone on this extraordinary country. This year, many of our Faculty members have traveled to Gaza, witnessing unimaginable horrors. We think of those in Gaza that are trapped in what seems to be a version of hell. I want to thank our Palestinian Faculty and partners for all they do to ensure the Foundation can play its part, teaching where and when possible. 

The state of the world can feel overwhelming, but acting in ways that create tangible change can move us from hopelessness to hopefulness, and from lives lost to lives saved. I want to take this moment to thank you for providing that hope and for continuing to be a part of this David Nott Foundation family.

I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  

With gratitude,  

James Gough, CEO 

 

Our 2024 global impact