Haiti Rehabilitation Centre

The Rehabilitation Centre was set up in response to the 2010 Haiti earthquake and the dramatic increase is need for spinal cord injury treatment. It was the first of its kind in Haiti and still one of only 3 in the country. 8 years on from the earthquake and the team now treats people from a wide range of backgrounds suffering disability for many different reasons.

Jocelyn arrived 3 years ago as he fell out of a tree suffering a spinal cord injury. This injury meant he could not work which has a huge impact on his family as well as him.  This kind of sudden life changing injury can be extremely hard both physically and mentally going from being a provider to needing constant care.

At first he was being cared for at home but developed a really bad pressure sore - a constant concern for those with mobility issues. He was then brought to the Rehab unit where he was given a wheelchair, treatment for his wound and therapy. He still has the wound but it is much better than it was.

Rehabilitation is a long process but now, Jocelyn feels at home there, and as his physical condition improves the staff also work on building his confidence and independence to prepare him for life outside of the unit again. He’s being taught new skills – he turns recycled plastic into handbags and is making bracelets, and other items of jewellery. His plans for the future – he wants to be self-employed and run his own business. He’s very happy to get the chance at new life after his injury.

Thanks for your support!

Links:

• HHA's disability work