Dr Jeneby helps victims of family violence through Pro Bono work with The Family Violence and Prevention Center (FVPC).
The calling came 14 years ago when I was a resident at The University of Pennsylvania Division of Plastic Surgery. A story ran on 60 minutes about physicians helping victims of Family Violence. In 2009, I met Marta Pelaez the CEO at San Antonio Family Violence and Prevention Center. I was impressed at its organization, the facility and the dedicated combination of volunteers and donors. A First Rate organization- I thought.
My initial thoughts on driving to the center for the first time was that I was going to be confronted by a small shelter like building -“third world” came to mind. I was shocked and surprised to find a extremely organized, well run center of dedicated professionals all striving to improve the lives of their patients and the local community.
Marta and I sat down and outlined a plan to begin the process of healing these women’s scars. I wanted to use my abilities to help people. From here I developed the “Jeneby Foundation”. Something that is sorely needed in the US. We all focus on developing countries for “mission” trips. Why not complete your mission in the US?
I began operating on these women about 1 year ago and it is no less than an amazing experience to see them improve. Form scalp injuries to burns to stabbings, hand and facial injuries, these women have undergone enormous psychological and emotional stress. The often cry when they see their results and this moves me to continue my quest.
I am hoping that my volunteering spirit catches on with other physicians. My colleagues are needed including: Dentists, Pediatricians, OB-GYNs, Primary Care and a list of others.
Sincerely,
Thomas T Jeneby, M.D.
