The arrival of the Prosthetics Workshop in May, 2010 signaled an answer to the prayers of many Haitians who lost limbs as a result of the earthquake.
The much welcomed workshop also marked the start of a new career path for HSC staff member, Patrick Etienne. The well liked and respected translator for visiting volunteer teams now also focuses on becoming a CPO or Certified Prosthetist and Orthetist.
“This line of work is very fascinating to me,” said Etienne. “It’s definitely something I want to learn, since the people who are amputated in Haiti are looked down upon. If I’m able to help lift a spirit or get someone up and moving again, that’s a blessing I will not pass up.”
With the support of Prosthetics Program Manager, John Lovejoy, Jr., M.D., Patrick gained acceptance into the CPO program at University of Don Bosco (UDB) in Dominican Republic. The two and a half year professional degree program includes online and classroom courses in five modules: Anatomy (Muscular-Skeletal), Biomecanics, Pathology, Technology and Professional Practice. Patrick visits UDB monthly for a week long workshop during which he learns both theory and hands-on techniques. When he returns to HSC, Patrick takes an online exam.
American CPOs who come to Hôpital Sacré Coeur and volunteer at the Prosthetics Workshop provide additional training opportunities for Etienne.
“I’ve picked up many different methods of casting, fitting alignment and laminations,” he notes with gratitude. “The UDB has its own methods that I will be tested on at times of exams. That is fine with me as I will learn to develop my own methods in the future, so it’s an advantage for me to acquire knowledge from the many different experts who come to CRUDEM to help better my knowledge so I can help my people in the future.”
And some of those people Patrick hopes to help in the future include his own family. “I’m hoping this line of work can help me to support my family and bring me enough income to help educate my children.”
