After a few days, we began chatting about life, the food and fabulous care we were both receiving. She announced she was there for a burn treatment. 

The next day she drew the curtain back.

I saw a beautiful woman scarred on her eyes, face, chest, arms and hands by an acid burn. She was becoming blind as  well. She returned regularly to this Baltimore, MD Hospital for treatments. It also serves as a regional burn center.

Her injury occurred after she broke her engagement to a man from her country.  That man returned later to throw acid in her face.   I was amazed how easily this man obtained a strong, industrial chemical for less than $2.00.

I recently viewed  an old Maureen O'Hara movie, wherein she played the dean of a music school.  About half-way through the movie she started questioning her engagement to a stuffy but nice guy.  Eventually, she decides to break the engagement.  However, she chose her friend and advisor to notify her fiance, while she remained in the back room. IT SEEMS THERE ARE TIMES WHEN A MAN NEEDS TO HEAR BAD NEWS FROM ANOTHER MAN!

In this scenario, a woman should rely on her father, brothers, male cousins or very close male friends to relate a breakup to her fiance. If no male relatives are present and friends can't help, then the woman should turn to the police for help and protection.

From science training, I've learned to be cautious when handling strong chemicals.  The professors continually stressed to be aware of the eye wash and body wash stations, should we have need of them.

I also checked the first aid recommended for chemical burns.  First checked the Mayo Clinic site and then called the poison control center. Both recommended at least a 10 to 15 minute wash when one's eyes or body is in contact with chemicals. Should they be very strong chemicals washing or showering with cool water can continue for a half an hour.   The first aid page also mentions removal of contaminated clothing to stop the burn.  Cutting clothes off the body was the directive given to avoid bringing clothing over the head.

If the burning continues, one is to be taken immediately to a nearby hospital for further evaluation or treatment.  Bring the chemical container along as well.

When so much of the body is burned,  the victim rarely survives. Why wasn't that nasty man arrested for attempted murder? Can the UN make this a global issue and some how get the world to agree that this is a crime?