Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Suceava Wheelchair Distribution Day #2

It's hard to find the energy to write. Monday, our first day of wheelchair distribution in Suceava, we gave out 26 chairs. Today we did 22. I'll remember these stories forever.





We had 7 teenagers helping today. Most were serving by translating and a couple were mechanics with me. Pastor Nicu's son David is very handy and learns fast. Our last little boy of the day was lots of fun. He had cerebral palsy and came walking in with his dad holding his arms. When I asked if they had a walker or a wheelchair they replied they had neither! The PT got him going quickly in a posterior walker and he was up and down the long hallway 4 times. The wheelchair was another matter.

We worked on that thing for nearly two hours! He didn't need much support, it's just that we had to mix pieces and parts from different wheelchairs to come up with the best solution. I will never forget the graciousness of the people here in Romania. Many of the chairs collected from the U.S. and sent here would end up in the dumpster at my shop. The families and users here are delighted to have them and appreciate every act of service we offer.

During our meeting tonight one of our PT's shared how she observed the gypsy family who came today. Mom pushed her daughter, who was about 30-years-old, into the reception area seated in her wheelchair. Jody, our writer on the trip, sat with the family while they were waiting and she was holding the patient's hands and kinda petting her, soothing her. Tears rolled down mom's cheeks as she considered the kindness shown by this American stranger. I don't think caregivers here are used to this.

Serving,

cu placere

1 comment:

  1. Hey David, Great report!Several years ago I put out a request thru ADMEA for any type of medical equipment to send to missions. The people here in Ala. really came thru. We were able to send much needed equipment and supplies to many missionaries. Untill you have been there It is hard to beleive the needs. We will be intouch when we get some chairs together. GOD bless your efforts.

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