Othopedics

It was a change of perspective today as I joined Dr Frank Hayden for a day treating children with orthopedic problems. Frank and his wife Kathleen have been a part of the Mercy Ships orthopedic outreach for the past 5 years. They have helped establish Ponsetti casting programs in many local hospitals enabling patients with club feet to be treated non-surgically with exceptional results. There is usually a block of surgical time reserved for children with needing surgical correction.

Today we offered an opportunity to change the future for a few children. From frozen joints to bowing legs they each struggle with walking and look towards a future that will see them very limited in their mobility. For one, he will likely be completely normal once the casts are removed. For the others, they will see a dramatic improvement in their mobility and a different future.

It is fascinating to share the stories not only of the patients that find hope aboard a vessel in their port, but to  meet those from around the world that have joined together to make it possible.