Hi everyone!

 

This February I will be working as a volunteer Physio in two Vietnamese orphanages - four weeks in Huong La orphanage near Hanoi, (http://www.forgottenpeople.net/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=27&Itemid=44) followed by four weeks at the Tam Ky Orphanage and Peace Village near Da Nang.

 

The children have a high rate of disability due to the chemical warfare used throughout the Vietnam War. Agent Orange was a strong and toxic herbicide used to clear crops and land where guerrilla fighters could be hidden.  However the toxic nature and the long period in which it takes to degrade have resulted in high rates of birth defects, still births and medical conditions.

 

Our mission will be to work with the nuns that run the orphanage to find fun and easy ways to encourage proper positioning of children to prevent contractures and encourage the development of functional goals such as sitting up, walking and rolling in bed.

 

For more information regarding fundraising I also have a pledge me account currently active.

https://www.pledgeme.co.nz/projects/1734 100% of all donations will be given directly to the orphanages to improve conditions and buy essential equipment for the children. I am very fortunate to have been sponsored and therefore no funds will be going towards travel costs.

 

For more information check out the previous Physio's amazing blog: 

http://wheninvietnam.wordpress.com/

 

Holly XX