GLOBAL RECONCILIATION PROJECTS
in partnership with Kalumonan Development Centre and House of Joy Orphanage,
San Isidro, Davao Oriental, Philippines
DISABILITY ASSISTANCE
Since 2002, GRP has been working to improve the lives of those who are differently-abled (our term) persons. since the cost of medical attention in the Philippines is relatively high, it has been a slow " uphill" struggle to try to meet the demands. However, over the past four (4) years, we have made some great headway.
To date, we have been able to provide wheelchairs, spinal operations and since 2003 have worked conjunction with Batobato Central Elementary School to provide an education unit for both children and adults who are differently - abled. The pupils of this class suffer from both mental and physical disabilities including blindness.
The school provides the classroom and teachers and GRP provides funding for necessary training for teachers, travel expenses and teaching aids. The centre has allowed those with disabilities, some of whom are from grossly disadvantaged mountain villages, to now have the benefit of education.
We also have limited provided funds for severely physically handicapped persons to attend a specialised rehabilitation centre in Davao City on a longer term agreement. One such case was Novelyn whose story will tell you now.
Our first interaction with Novelyn was through Mattias Norlander, one of GRP's founding members back in 2002. On a visit to the remote upland village of Maputi, Mattias was asked if he could take time to visit the home of a young girl, whom the locals felt was in great need.
After entering a typical low income farmer's dwelling, Mattias was introduced to a young fourteen (14) year-old girl who had been born without legs below the knees and no hands.
Even though Novelyn was severely hindered, Mattias could immediately see that she was very mentally alert but was moved to witness how she struggled to manoeuvre around the small house. Leaving the house knowing that Novelyn was unable to attend school on a regular basis in Maputi, as even short travel was a huge difficulty, Mattias set out to find a solution.
He quickly discovered Our Lady of Victory project in Davao City could be the perfect solution, being able to provide the care needed and education as well. After discussion with the family and Novelyn, all were delighted that Novelyn could have the opportunity for a better life and it was agreed that she should have regular home visits.
Mattias then contacted Mr. George McGrand (GRP Programme Coordinator) who was at home in Ireland at the time to find the necessary funds needed for Novelyn to obtain artificial limbs and undergo long term rehabilitation in Davao City.
Through house to House collections and private donations within one month Novelyn was attending her rehabilitation in the city. However, the story did not end there.
Novelyn showed great courage and even the experienced staff of the centre were astounded by the short time in which Novelyn learnt to walk with her prosthetic legs. For in less than two months, she was walking hundreds of meters per day, and also had learnt to operate a computer even though she had no fingers.
It was also a matter of great pride for George McGrand and Jonjon Limen that at their wedding in 2002, which took place in Davao City, that Novelyn was able to be their bridesmaid and walked down the aisle so gracefully. Many in attendance did not realise that under her dress were prosthetic legs.
Novelyn is still very much part of GRP family and at present, she is now an assistant therapist teaching others how to walk and deal with daily living in spite of physical disadvantages. It was through Novelyn's courage, determination, happy heart and ability that we decided not to look upon those with physical and mental disadvantages as disabled, but very much just differently-abled than ourselves.
GRP 19 Prospect Link, Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland BT38 8QT. Mobile 07876270733 Landline 02893365342 e-mail grpinfo@btopenworld.com