514 chapter 54
Children with paralysis in their bodies often develop strong arms and hands—and can
do many kinds of work as well as anyone.
Here 2 boys who had polio build cane
blinds for the model home at PROJIMO.
Combining work with therapy
This boy, who is paraplegic from tuberculosis,
spokes a wheel for a wheelchair. He rides a
wheeled lying board because of pressure sores
on his butt.
Whenever possible, look for work that will help a disabled person fit into the life of
his or her community, and that will also provide needed exercise or therapy. Here is one
example from the Sarvodaya community-based rehabilitation program in Beruwala, Sri
Lanka.
With the help of her family and a village rehabilitation volunteer, this girl with cerebral palsy learned
to make rope from coconut fiber (jute). This is a common village craft, so she can work with other
villagers.
Separating and preparing the fibers is
good therapy for her spastic hands.
Disabled village Children
Twisting the fiber with this wheel to make rope helps
her move her stiff arms in a smooth circle—providing
excellent, active therapy while she works.