Operation Rainbow’s Mission Operation Rainbow is a humanitarian organization committed to offering life-changing surgeries to children and adults who lack access to specialized medical care. Dr. Rai has personally traveled to various regions, including Ukraine, where he has assisted soldiers and civilians. The organization has conducted numerous missions worldwide, including a recent mission to Kenya, where they provided much-needed medical assistance in Mombasa.
Structure and Teamwork Each mission consists of a dedicated team of 18 to 26 members, including surgeons, nurses, and support staff. These professionals come together from British Columbia, other parts of Canada, and sometimes even the United States. Operation Rainbow also provides opportunities for two residents to participate in each mission, allowing them to gain invaluable hands-on experience.
The Impact of the Missions One of the most rewarding aspects of these missions is their impact on local communities. Through television and radio advertisements, Operation Rainbow ensures that children in need are brought to their clinics, often traveling long distances by bus. These missions focus heavily on cleft surgery, immersing the team in an environment where they must quickly assess patients, operate the next day, and provide post-operative care within a short timeframe.
Each mission costs approximately $85,000 and typically lasts around 12 days. Over the past 15 years, Operation Rainbow has successfully performed over 2,000 surgeries. A rigorous screening process evaluates 100 to 150 patients per mission, prioritizing girls first, followed by boys and then adults. Most of these cases involve cleft deformities, which are genetic and affect approximately 1 in 1,000 children in British Columbia.
A Seamless Surgical Approach The team follows a structured, collaborative approach. Two surgeons work simultaneously at two operating tables, ensuring efficient surgeries with quick patient turnover. Patients are usually discharged within a day, and by the third day, local physicians take over follow-ups. Pediatricians are also part of the team, ensuring comprehensive care for all patients.
A Life-Changing Experience The missions not only transform the lives of the patients but also deeply impact the medical team. Nurses play a crucial role in calming the children before surgery, and every team member takes immense pride in their collective efforts. The experience fosters professional and personal growth, inspiring them to improve their skills for future missions.
To date, Operation Rainbow has completed over 30 missions and changed the lives of more than 3,000 children. The gratitude from the families is overwhelming, with many villagers offering gifts as tokens of appreciation. The joy on parents' faces after their child’s surgery is an unforgettable sight—a true testament to the power of compassion and medical expertise.
Expanding Horizons Dr. Rai and his team have been welcomed with open arms in every country they visit. In Mombasa, Kenya, they set up two operating tables in a hospital that had never conducted surgery before. Not only did they perform critical procedures, but they also introduced surgical capabilities that will benefit future patients. The impact of their presence extends far beyond their time on the ground, as they leave behind knowledge, training, and equipment for local medical professionals.
A Legacy of Giving Dr. Rai’s journey with Operation Rainbow began when he was invited by the President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to participate in a mission to the Philippines. Since then, he has dedicated himself to this humanitarian cause, bringing hope and healing to thousands around the world.
Conclusion The work of Dr. Rai and Operation Rainbow exemplifies the true spirit of humanitarianism. Their efforts change lives, not just for the patients but also for their families and entire communities. Through teamwork, dedication, and compassion, they provide a priceless gift—the ability to smile, speak, and live with dignity.
Many thanked Dr. Rai for the work that he does and his excellent presentation.
Melinda has two grandkids staying with her and had to organize their lunches before she came.
Debbie S. is happy to be back from Palm Springs.
Moe’s cousins back east are experiencing cold weather. He also has birthdays to celebrate.
Debbie T. said there will be a projects meeting regarding the L.A. wildfires. She had a marathon school trustee meeting last night. A group of parents is pushing to reverse certain decisions. Seemingly motivated by what is happening in the US.
Amanda has medical news—she had a follow-up with neurologists regarding disc issues and arthritis.
Elena has been working until midnight organizing a dental mission to the Philippines. She is leaving in two weeks.
Joyce’s son and daughter-in-law’s trees are still standing, but their house in LA is gone.
Fortunately, they have insurance. They were evacuated, and in less than 12 hours, their house was destroyed. Insurance companies are now leaving the state.
Maryam is back and has a great time with our club. She feels energized by being part of it.
Jeanette, thanks for making us look more professional. She attended a membership meeting last night and is analyzing why people are not joining the club.
Michael does not see many cleft palates here, but he does in India. He didn’t talk much today because he was busy finishing his house.
Sam’s favorite class is on facial anomalies. He is glad to see young people joining the club.
Kal said the auction gala funds will go toward projects like Operation Rainbow. He was also happy that Moe shook hands with everyone after discussions with Kal.
Judy has been attending her grandchildren’s sports activities. She went to a game last night.
Debbie M. commended Dr. Rai for his fabulous work. She is completing her last two courses to renew her license. She also visited a hematologist and has managed to keep her blood levels stable for an entire year.
Larry is happy to be back, doing well, and walking without a cane. He is supposed to go back to work but is currently on holiday. He has undergone 18 plastic surgeries. His osteoporosis is severe, and he needs to recover before further treatment can be administered.
John watched his grandson achieve a red belt in Taekwondo by kicking a board. Inspired, John risked his own safety—and those around him—by attempting to recreate the action.
Marg appreciates the humility of Dr. Rai. She also had the opportunity to attend the worst Canuck hockey game ever.
Pat has a busy day—attending a seminar, followed by Tea & Trumpets. She is exhausted.
Lawrence is proud of Dr. Rai. His mother was diagnosed with colon cancer, but she immediately underwent surgery, and they successfully removed it. She now has a clean bill of health.
Gordon enjoys coming to meetings, even when we are half asleep, to hear these good news stories. He has friends dealing with health problems, which they discuss over morning coffee. His blood levels are stable, and his prostate cancer is under control.
Sandra went out for a celebration dinner last night. She only wakes up early once a week—on Thursdays.
Peter’s grandson after his birth spent a couple of weeks in the hospital and underwent surgery. The fellow next to him had a cleft palate. They are now best of friends. At 10 o’clock, a dog trainer is coming to help with their rescue dog, who is addicted to TV and barks at A&W commercials.
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