Queen Victoria Hospital

This hospital had a specialised burn and surgery unit for airmen with burns and deformities during World War II. Under the leadership of surgeon Sir Archibald McIndoe, pioneering plastic surgery techniques restored their functions and gave hope to these young men with their life-changing deformities.

In 1941, a few recovering airmen formed a drinking group and the so called Guinea Pig Club was born.

Through his encouragement, the Guinea Pigs did not hide from their injuries but led full, active lives.

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Source

• Text: TracesOfWar
• Photos: Jan de Jager
• - Rebuilding Bodies & Souls | Guinea Pig Club | East Grinstead Museum