This time a column, written by Astrid Udo, an experienced physiotherapist. It was her first visit to our Community and she likes to share her experiences with us. My first visit to PCC Hand in Hand in Ghana is one I will never forget. Together with my colleague Inge — also a physiotherapist and board member of Hand in Hand in the Netherlands — I had the privilege of spending two weeks at this remarkable place. Although I’ve worked abroad for over ten years in different settings, it quickly became clear to me that PCC is unlike anywhere else. There’s a unique spirit of care and connection here, a sense of genuine commitment that truly changes the lives of children and young people with disabilities. From the very first moment, I felt warmly welcomed. Life at PCC starts early. By 7 a.m. the compound is already buzzing with activity. Some children are walking for one hour, others are playing movement games on the grass, while a few are training in the gym or receiving physiotherapy. I spent most of my time in the physio room, where I was struck time and again by the children’s perseverance. Back home in the Netherlands, we often have to encourage motivation for exercises; here the children carry them out with remarkable dedication. Take Sadat, for example, a boy with involuntary movements who pulls himself up on the rings every single day. His trousers are forever sliding down, but he doesn’t let it bother him. Or James, who has hemiplegia, and despite worn shoes and bare ankles, takes confident steps without a walker. When he was fitted with new orthopedic shoes — bright pink, just as he’d wished for, with matching socks from our employer Rijndam — his joy was unmistakable. For the rest of my stay I never saw him without them. He ran, played football, and moved through the world in his own unique way.
Patience One of the most moving encounters for me was with Patience, a beautiful girl who had only recently arrived at PCC. Because of her uncontrolled movements, she could hardly sit or move on her own and often lay curled up on the ground without a proper chair. Together with local staff members Edward and Ameyaw (who himself walks with crutches and is wonderfully resourceful), we searched for a suitable wheelchair. We found one that Edward carefully adapted with a hip belt and tray, enabling Patience to sit upright and even use her hands with more purpose. Still, her feet got sores from the spasticity in her legs. We fitted her with proper shoes and added ankle straps for extra protection. At last she could sit comfortably and take part in daily PCC-life with ease. We also gave the caregivers at PCC a special training on safe lifting techniques. Patience, for example, always needs two people to help her because of her weight and unpredictable movements. Her daily care required adjustments as well. The cold water used for washing left her so tense that her muscles wouldn’t relax. By making a small change—adding a kettle so the water could be warmed—the difference was immediate. A simple solution, but one that transformed her experience. What happens at PCC goes far beyond providing care. It is the daily, steady commitment of a team that radiates humanity, professionalism, and compassion. The support of the community and the atmosphere of optimism make this place truly unforgettable. I feel deeply grateful for the chance to spend two weeks here. It was a rich and rewarding experience—educational, moving, and inspiring. PCC Hand in Hand is a place where children with disabilities are not only cared for, but also truly seen and given real opportunities to grow, thrive, and belong.