On September 8th, International Physical Therapy Day, we marked the reopening of Ste Germaine after more than a month of interruption. We are happy to once again provide vulnerable children, youth, and adults in our community with essential therapeutic care services.
The testimonies of our patients, expressing their fervent prayers for the safe return of the hostages, have deeply touched us.
This morning, a 23-year-old patient shared that she had suffered a stroke, attributing it to the daily stress caused by the widespread insecurity in Haiti. Forced to flee her home with her family and facing numerous difficulties, she emphasized the importance of the support, patience, and compassion she finds within our center. She also expressed her suffering during the suspension of our activities, having neither the resources nor the possibility of continuing her sessions elsewhere.
Our therapists also testified to the negative impact of this interruption on some patients, emphasizing the crucial importance of continuity of care. Other patients mentioned having consulted other centers without success and expressed their relief at being able to resume their care at Ste Germaine.
With the school year scheduled to begin on October 1st, and with the Kay Christine residents currently residing at Ste Germaine, we are working to ensure that vulnerable children continue to benefit from quality specialized education, to promote their social integration, and to strengthen their autonomy.
Despite the difficulties encountered, our mission at the Special Needs Program remains unchanged.