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The prosthetic clinic and
physical therapy services
have brought smiles to the
faces of patients who once
feared social ostracism.
The American Association and Federal Association of
the Order of Malta provided substantial funding for
the outfitting of the lab and for ongoing prosthetic
services. This will be essential, especially for children
who will need replacements in the years ahead.
Recently retired nurse practitioner, Ann Culloo, R.N.,
of Agawam, Massachusetts volunteered to coordinate
the visiting prostheticists who impart critical skills
to Haitian apprentice, Patrick Etienne, who, with
foundation and hospital support, is studying for his
prostheticist certification.
By the end of March, the patient population
stabilized, earthquake victims were being discharged
daily and only 197 remained. The “old” and “new”
hospitals started to merge again as Haitian medical
staff assumed charge positions in the treatment
of earthquake patients and emptied tents were
converted into clinic areas. Once again, the Haitian
staff and volunteers worked side by side.
“As everyone knows, the
results of this merger
of volunteers with the
Haitian hospital staff were
astonishing and exemplary!”
said CEO Dr. Bernès
Chalumeau. “Some observers
do not stop speaking
well of the involvement
and commitment of the
volunteers working side by
side with the Haitian staff for
the well-being of the victims
of the earthquake.”
PG
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