DAY 2(Clinic) – DOWN TO WORK
Its raining. Not just raining, actually but raining as it can only in countries close to the equator. It is coming down in buckets, each ‘drop’ 4 or 5 times the normal size. The lightning at this latitude illuminates the sky for several seconds and is followed by a thunder that shakes one to the very marrow. Fortunately, we are safely and warmly ensconced in the lodge provided by Xelaid and are as snug as the proverbial bugs in rugs.
The word has gotten out that mobility aids are to be had at the clinic. 50% more patients are served today than yesterday. Complex cases as well. Adults with severe Parkinson’s disease that forces them to lean forward and yet take such small steps they threaten to fall. . Many patients are fitted with wheelchairs who have suffered strokes because of unrecognized and/or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Most could have been prevented with a pill costing 5 cents per day as well as a baby aspirin. These patients would benefit from physiotherapy to aid in their recover but which is not available for them. Our therapist instruct them, however, in exercises they can use to improve their limbs’ range of motion, their strength and balance.
Most patients come requesting to be fitted for a wheelchair. Our therapists recognize, however, that maintaining the patient’s mobility for as long as possible is best for the patient’s well-being. Often the patients are best served by a walker or even a cane which will keep their legs strong and their balance keen. They are also the best mobility device to use in the patient’s home where navigating with a wheelchair through narrow doorways is problematic.
We are grateful to the local Guatemalan FIP members who assist these patients with transportation to the clinic and then back home again with their new mobility devices. We, and the patients, would be lost without their dedication and hard work.
Dr. Joseph Austin, Team Doctor, Team Leader & Blogger
