The clinic has been very busy as has the hospital. The students are having an opportunity to treat all ages- which is unlike other clinicals they would experience. So many concerns. One young man had a truck accident and can walk but has little use of his feet. He is 24. He is staying at the hospital the entire time the group is here because the therapy gives him function and hope.
So many with back problems and other ailments that do not require surgery but therapy is so helpful. The supplies you gathered are so helpful. Sagar (an Indian PT) was telling us that even Terraputi PT clinics are not so nice. The team being here is helping to get the word out that this service being offered.
One of the families they are treating has Huntington's Disease which is a genetic disorder. Many in the family are affected. The team is helping the chldren and we are invited to their house for tea today as a thanks. Maureen has only ever seen one case in the US and here is an entire family. The students are getting a range of experience. Of course, no technology and much is done by hand and if the patients schedule a time it might be today or tomorrow when they show up.
It is hot - yesterday was pretty miserable in the afternoon. and of course, the current went out. However we are sleeping comfortably which makes a huge difference. We mightdo some shopping this afternoon.
Friday was another full day at the clinic. The group saw a number of the same patients, along with some new ones. The group worked until about 1:30 p.m., and then "took rest" until the evening clinic which started at 5:00 p.m.
Here is a picture of Samuel. He has muscular dystrophy. His best friend brings him to the clinic daily. Samuel is 17 and very bright. He is at the top of his class. The therapy is helping him gain strength and mobility.
There is always a surprise in India! This is a picture from the Friday evening clinic. Each night during the clinic, the power goes out at some point. Here, the group was treating a stroke victim when the lights went out. As they lifted his pantleg, they discovered an ugly wound from a motorcycle accident. They donned the gloves and bandaged it up by flashlight. After finishing, they walked him out by candlelight.
Friday night ended with a religious service at the Ashram with the mission kids. Although some children are gone for the summer break, a number have remained because they have no place else to go. The service was dynamic and ended with a prayer for all. God bless.
