Today marks fourteen years since the worst natural disaster in Haitian history, when the country was hit with a catastrophic earthquake that left many sections of Port-au-Prince completely destroyed. 300,000 lives were lost and many more were forever altered, with a vast number of injuries requiring the use of prosthetics and specialized care to help patients regain mobility. Due to this desperate need, the Hanger Corporation and the Ivan R. Sabel Foundation stepped in and established the first Prosthetics & Orthotics Clinic at HAS.
Fourteen years later, the P&O clinic has been a beacon of hope for those grappling with the aftermath of traumatic injuries. Over the past year, the clinic has provided compassionate care to 156 patients, offering specialized treatment and support for injuries requiring prosthetic limbs and orthotic devices. 62% of orthotic patients were children like Jhons, a 3 year old who has been receiving treatment this year.
It’s hard not to smile along with Jhons! He has been bringing his positive energy to the clinic as they work together to overcome a condition that causes his knees to bend inward. His legs have been fitted with specialized night splints that are designed to provide support and correction, aiding in the gradual realignment of the knees during the crucial growth stages of childhood. Over the past year he has seen a steady improvement in his condition, and his smile keeps growing brighter.
The team at the clinic has also been inspired by perseverance of Maxis, who suffered a serious injury in a motorcycle accident that led to the amputation of his left leg. Not only was it extremely painful, but he feared that he would lose his mobility completely. However, it was explained that all was not lost, and that he would be able to resume his normal activities with the help of a prosthesis. With a determined effort, Maxis has adjusted to his new leg and now he can’t imagine life without it.
These beautiful stories remind us of the hope that can spring from a terrible disaster. Thanks to the efforts of the P&O clinic, our partner Medi for Help and all of our wonderful staff at HAS, we are looking forward to a brighter and more mobile future for Haiti!