World Polio Day, Oct 24: ‘Any number more than zero is too much’

Posted on October 24, 2016 by beenasarwar

A slightly revised version of my article in The News on Sunday on Oct. 23, 2016, posted here with additional links and photos. The world watches as the last three polio endemic countries strive to relegate the crippling virus to history

ramesh-ferris-minda-dentler

Polio survivors Ramesh Ferris and Minda Dentler share their experiences – and dreams about a polio-free world. Photos: Beena Sarwar

“In 1955 Dr Jonas Salk invented the preventive vaccine. It is outrageous that 25 years later I contracted polio,” says author and global health advocate Ramesh Ferris.

Standing on his good leg, a crutch compensating for the paralysed one in braces, eyes gleaming behind black-rimmed glasses, Ferris passionately addresses the audience of about a hundred physicians, scientists and international diplomats. They include representatives from the world’s three remaining polio endemic countries — Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Nigeria. Continue reading →

Filed under: Health, Human rights | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment »

V-Day and One Billion Rising

Posted on December 30, 2012 by beenasarwar

Gender-based violence has been recognised as a global epidemic for years (see Unicef press release of 2000). And yet the phenomenon continues.

What can we do? Each of us has a voice. Let’s use it. Check out the One Billion Rising website:

Screenshot of OBR website, Dec 29, 2012

Screenshot of OBR website, Dec 29, 2012

Join V-Day on 02.14.13 in a global strike to demand an end to violence.

Feb 14, 2013 is the 15th Anniversary of V-Day, the non-profit that began using The Vagina Monologues  the ground-breaking play by Eve Ensler to raise awareness and money to end violence against women. Continue reading →

Filed under: Gender | Tagged: , , , , , | 1 Comment »

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