Heredia (3/1/17)

This morning we were split into three groups to travel to Heredia. There we set up free physical therapy screening clinics for the residents of that neighborhood to attend. Once each group arrived at their location, the site was organized into six different stations: (1) intake and medical history, (2) vital signs, (3) height/weight and pain scale, (4) musculoskeletal screen, (5) functional tests, and (6) exercise prescription. As each patient came, we ushered them through the stations in order to determine the cause of their pain and prescribe the appropriate exercises.

While some in the neighborhood were told that we were coming beforehand, we also went door-to-door in the precarios with Abdy to spread the word and book appointments for the afternoon and tomorrow. To say that we were shocked to witness the conditions these families are living in is an understatement. As we walked up the main road, Abdi veered off the beaten path into a narrow alleyway. The alleyway continued down a narrow set of stairs of varying depth, made of unmanicured cement. Along the path one could see trash, dirt, and a random assortment of lumber, scrap metal, and PVC pipe.

We passed by a group carrying wood and metal sheets down this treacherous path in order to build their home. Abdy told us that the people here simply find whatever materials they can to construct their homes. Sometimes, they are able to get plumbing and electricity from local government leaders, but many times they simply connect wire from the main power line and run it into their homes. There were many stray and pet dogs (although it can be difficult to differentiate the two) and children running about, most of which were barefoot. It was hard to imagine actually living in those conditions. We spoke with one woman who beamed with pride as she told us about her daughter who was studying at the National University of Costa Rica. Public schools such as this are free in Costa Rica and so hopefully, the daughter is able to get a good job and help her family move out of the precario in the future.

The schedule is full of patients for tomorrow. I only wish we could do more. Pura Vida.

 

Written by Christina Holl