Putting yourself into others' shoes From frontline rescue to disaster preparedness education

After obtaining the medical qualifications, Dr Kevin Hung Kei-ching joined Hong Kong Red Cross as an overseas medical volunteer. Right after completing his “Emergency Response Unit” training, he took up his first humanitarian mission and was sent to Sichuan Province to participate in the "5.12 Wenchuan Earthquake" emergency relief operation. He witnessed devastated scenes in disaster-affected areas. Many lost their lives and loved ones. “In the face of disasters, life is fragile. I asked myself, as an emergency medicine doctor, what can I do for them besides treating the wounds?"

Kevin had travelled to different countries and regions multiple times, including mainland China, the Philippines, and Tanzania in Africa to participate in emergency relief operations in disaster-stricken places. He assisted in developing local medical projects and training medical staff. Kevin mentioned that,“Natural disasters happen more and more frequently globally. In areas prone to hazards, frontline relief work is essential; but in the long run, it is vital to improve local medical standards and establish emergency response systems."

Since 2011, Kevin has been a member of Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC). He actively engages in research and education related to disaster preparedness as well as public health, etc. He is committed to reducing negative impacts brought by disasters in affected areas. “To truly help those affected by disasters, we must first understand their situation and needs. I often encourage medical students to conduct on-site assessments in disaster-prone areas to understand the needs and importance of disaster preparedness works. I hope they will focus on humanitarian work related to disaster relief and preparedness in the future."

Natural hazards are inevitable, but Kevin believes that everyone can make more adequate preparations for disasters. “Every overseas humanitarian relief mission is a precious experience. I hope to bring my accumulated experience back to Hong Kong through disaster research and teaching to improve the level of disaster preparedness of local citizens."

Humanity is to understand the needs of others with empathy, to support one another, and to care for everyone wholeheartedly.