What could be so hard about finding someone who needs a
wheelchair, setting them in it
and letting them roll away? The whole idea of
giving a wheelchair to someone is to help
them and to “Do No Harm.” Proper
fitting of the patient is critical. Newly trained
technicians now understand
the importance of that resolve.
Because we are assigned to cover Humanitarian, we decided to attend a training so we
could better understand all that goes in to being a technician. If we are in the training,
we better learn all we can!
Technicians were taught to
assess patient’s balance, interview to find patient’s needs,
assess for
sensitivity and pressure sores, and measure so the patient is properly fitted
to the chair. Three measurements are needed. These include seat width, seat depth,
and foot rest height. Technicians
were also taught about the parts and proper
maintenance of a wheelchair and the
proper use.
We not only had to learn to fit a wheelchair but we had to learn how to use on as well.
We were all very grateful that we don't have to use these all the time!
Rotary invited 13 of their members to attend a workshop in
Intramuros on
Oct. 9th and 10th. They were hosted by John
Go Hoc, director of the
Joy Kiddie School, where the activity was held. LDS
Charities provided
the training which included a two day seminar and the
opportunity
to do some hands-on fitting of wheelchairs.
This is our batch of technicians! We all passed with flying colors. Now to go to work
and help those who need wheelchairs.
Elder Hadlock, John Go Hoc, a teacher from his school, and Elder DuPaix
pose in front of the play equipment at the school.
Nieve brought her husband into the workshop. Crispin suffered a stroke in September
which affected his left side. He had such a sad countenance until he was able
to be fitted
and left the school with a chair. He had a great desire to gain the use of both his
left arm
and leg and now he has a wheelchair which will enable him to get to the
physical therapist fortreatment.
Crispin and Nieve left happy and grateful
for this wonderful gift.
We met some very special people during those two days of training, both young and old!
