The National Referral Hospital (NRH) this week received a donation of 300 crutches from the Solomon Islands Forestry Association (SFA).
The delivery of the crutches was made possible through an appeal made locally by Frank Short, Former Solomon Islands Police Commissioner 1997-1999), and his appeal was immediately responded to by the Chairman and Board of the Solomon Islands Forest Association who set about to procure the crutches, pay for them and arrange for a container to ship them to Honiara.
In receiving the crutches, NRH Medical Superintendent/CEO (Ag) Dr John Hue acknowledged the great passion and interest displayed by Mr. Frank Short to continue helping the country’s health sector and in this case patients with amputated limbs from diabetes and those recovering from accidents.
“We are truly grateful also to the Solomon Islands Forest Association for their support in responding positively to Frank Short’s request in providing the 300 crutches and for meeting the purchases costs, the sea freight costs and the eventual delivery of these crutches to us this week. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts”, said Dr Hue.
He said that the crutches will be very useful in assisting staff at NRH’s Physio Therapy and Rehabilitation Department in their work as well as with diabetic amputees and those that recover from accidents within the hospital. “Additionally the crutches are excellent as they are very light, strong, resilient, durable since its made of aluminium”, said Dr Hue.
Dr. Hue also highlighted that the donation is timely since the physio workshop to repair crutches, artificial or prosthetic or artificial limbs is currently under repair and as such work to repair many of these walking aids is being delayed.
“With this we are truly grateful for the 300 crutches and we will continue to ensure they are used appropriately and with care”, stated the NRH Medical Superintendent Acting.
From the 19 cartons, 10 cartons will be distributed to provincial hospitals.
For any media enquiries, please contact NRH Health Promotion Officer Barbara Phwaisiho on phone: 25256 or email BPhwaisiho@moh.gov.sb or MHMS Corporate Communications Atenia Tahu on phone 7478857 or email: ATahu@moh.gov.sb
