Thursday was a typical day in Peru-unexpected and full of many different learning opportunities. We arrive at the Special Education School with over 30 parents waiting for us. We did an on the spot parent workshop for kids and parents. It was wild with kids and parents, 2 different languages and trying to make a sensible presentation. We had bought objects in the market for display for the workshop and we had handouts. We were expecting the workshop to be from 4-6pm, so we rolled with the punches and I think it was good.
From 9:30-2:30 we saw one child after the other. We worked with the PT and moms. The PT was enthusiastic and we learned from each other! We really felt like working with the PT will make a difference. We saw such needy kids. One mom whose son is 11 and does not walk. She carries and lifts him all by herself. Many of the children need so little that would make such a difference. Many of the children do not receive regular medical care as they can not get to Lima. There are so many needs. We were able to make a difference with providing information to the PT who will be able to carry out some additional treatments for children and families. It still takes my breath away.
We finished early today and we were able to head out to the ruins outside of Casma. Very interesting and old ruins with great views.
We then headed back to Huarmey. Some of the crew is back in Huarmey. There are about 16 of us spread out in different villages. Huarmey is our home base, so it´s always fun to seem some of our people!
Joe is feeling a bit better each day, Lyneth is getting some bug. So, far Shelby and I are still standing.
Tomorrow is the special education eschula in Huarmey! A new day with new adventures!
Hasta,
Deirdra, Joe, Shelby!
June 11, 2010 at 3:14 am |
It’s hard to deal with a disability, harder to deal with it in poverty, and still harder to deal with it in the mountains! I don’t know how they do it! You’re making such a difference.
June 11, 2010 at 9:30 pm |
sounds like you guys are doing great work! Crazy that you helped a woman give birth! Its amazing to think of cultural differences and how babies are wrapped to keep their arms and legs straight!?! Joe, glad to here you are feeling better! Hi Shelby and way to be a trooper staying with the real peru troopers..hahaha. Take care!
June 12, 2010 at 12:40 pm |
Hi D! I am enjoying your blog, amazed at the hard work you are all doing. The pace sounds fast, you are teaching AND learning, and making a huge difference for a lot of folks.
Be safe. Always remember your keys, glasses and money.
Elise
June 12, 2010 at 3:32 pm |
Making a huge difference to all concerned. Your are all to to be commended for your ability to be flexible and able to step into all sorts of unplanned situations and help make them work. I don’t know who learns the most in these situations, the Peruvians or the
visiting service people.
June 12, 2010 at 3:39 pm |
Making a huge difference. We are impressed at your ability to be flexible and deal with
unexpected circumstances that arise. The learning goes both ways and both sides benefit tremendously. It’s inspiring just to read your blogs.
June 12, 2010 at 11:36 pm |
Making a difference – you bet! We are impressed at the interaction between you and the
folks you came to assist. You are very flexible and able to adapt and meet the needs of the moment even if it wasn’t something you had planned. We are wondering who is learning the most. It appears that both groups are learning a lot from each other.
June 13, 2010 at 1:28 pm |
Have a safe trip home! We can’t wait to see your pictures.
Auntie Donna and family
June 14, 2010 at 1:17 pm |
Hello, I love reading your blogs and I don’t know where you all get your energy. Incredible experiences for you and the all the people you are helping. Best wishes for continued success. Be safe.
June 15, 2010 at 1:48 am |
Dr- It sounds like it’s been an incredible trip and you and your team have been the perfect Johnnie on the spots. I bet it feels more like you are angels to the people you have helped. I wonder if you are now on your way home? If so, have a very safe trip.