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| Patrick, Tom Bremer C.P. and Clifford, one of the HHHF technicians |
Frustrating news upon arrival at the Kay Kapab Clinic today. First, our shipment of 6 pallets of rehabilitation equipment sent over 2 months ago is still stuck in Haitian Customs. Then, we learned we had no power, with no hope in sight. The generator that operates after city power fails, also failed. We were reminded that Mercy and Sharing, one of the orphanages we visit, never has power… knowing this helped us forge ahead and treat 26 patients. We also had two teams at orphanages today.
We should mention the concern friends and family members at home are sharing with us. The US State Department issued an advisory asking all non essential embassy workers and any US citizens in Haiti to leave the country immediately. We are very aware of the “situation” but have never felt threatened or been fearful at any point. We are taking this information very seriously and are taking appropriate measures to ensure everyones’ safety.
Tonight we wanted to tell you about one of the amazing boys we
met today. His name is Patrick and he is 13 years old. In February
of 2003 Patrick and his brother were struck by a vehicle. His
brother was killed. Patrick survived, but due to the injuries he
required bilateral above the knee amputations.
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| Tom Bremer C.P. and Patrick |
Consequently, his parents abandoned him. Patrick was identified by Healing Hands for Haiti Foundation and his rehab journey began. The first step was in finding a foster family that could help Patrick deal with his losses. In November 2003, Tom Bremer, Certified Prosthetist from Flint, Michigan was at Kay Kapab and was asked to fit Patrick with new legs.
Measurements and casts were taken. Because of the complexity of this case, Tom brought these casts home and donated fabrication and componentry. Tom returned this week with our team and collaborated
with the Haitian technicians to begin Patrick’s prosthetic rehabilitation.
Today, Patrick walked on his new prostheses. The determination
on his face had the staff and team cheering him on. Patrick has a
long road ahead of him, but he has a great group of people at HHHF
ready to help. His legs will be left with the Haitian technicians
to continue his therapy.
Best from Haiti,
Sarah Gutknecht, Nurse Practitioner
Al Ingersoll, Certified Prosthetist
Deb Ingersoll, Support Staff
Mark Kroll, Orthotist
