State, on September 8.
In conjunction with the International Red Cross and the Myanmar Red Cross alliance, the Hpa-an prosthetic rehabilitation department will travel across the country and provide mobile services to those in need.
“For those who are using a prosthetic device, they have [prosthetic] fake legs and fake feet. But these devices will be gone after 4-5 months of use. They come to Hpa-an [prosthetic rehab department] for repairs, when their feet break and strings snap. They have hardships in life. When their prosthetics break, they do not come to get new ones, they just keep using the broken ones. So, we provide this mobile service [of prosthetic rehab] going around the country, so that it will be better for those experiencing difficulties, and this will also help them avoid traveling for repairs and not waste much time,” said Ko Soe Hteik, field coordinator of prosthetic amputee department (Hpa-An).
Although the number of those disabled 109 in Thanbyuzayat Township, currently about 40 more moved out to other townships, and some are disabled athletes.
“In 1985, I was taken for portering and stepped on landmine, and lost my leg. It has been 30 years since then. But at the moment, I am racing bikes with able bodied people. I once came 3rd in a race. I got a gold medal when I raced with disabled people. I used to go to Hpa-An and fix my leg there. But now they come here to repair and I am glad for that,” said U Maung Htoo, a bicycle racer who has a prosthetic limb.
U Maung Htoo continued that he would participate in the 47 mile bicycle race in Thanbyuzayat on September 13.
Many people have lost limbs as a result of motor vehicle accidents.
“After a motorbike accident a year ago, I had to cut this leg off. Currently, I have to wear [leg] sock and this prosthetic leg. Because of this service, I am now able to walk. I am very glad,” said U Aung Kyaw Htun, who used the service.
The mobile prosthetic service are planning to travel across Mon, Karen and Karenni states, as well as Tenasserim Division and the eastern division of Pegu.
At the moment, the service is in Mon State, and has already traveled to Mon State’s townships but not yet Moulmein and Chaungzone townships. Those who need to change prosthetics and major parts of the leg or arm will be sent to the prosthetic amputee rehabilitation department in Hpa-an, the capital of Karen State.
