Walking back from the edge - a courageous woman’s recovery at the bridge

Six months ago we heard the news that a woman in our community had tragically tried to commit suicide by falling from the local bridge here at Kafja e Rremes. Two months later her sister came to our center looking for help because she was discharged from hospital with a fractured knee and an amputated leg. Her condition was not good, psychologically and physically. She was unable to sit, unable to move her legs at all and was lying in bed all day. Our physios and one of our church workers visited her a few times a week, supporting her as much as possible by counseling, loaning physio equipment to help, working with her family, and a lot of advice in health management from our physio staff. Little by little, she was able to sit independently, transfer into the wheelchair by herself, strengthening her legs to prepare for the prosthesis.

Xhina, our Rehab Leader, has been really encouraged what she’s witnessed:

‘It was a long process and very difficult for her to find the courage and strength to get better, but together, we have achieved it. We noticed, with every physical improvement, through standing for the first time, to being able to feed herself, she became more positive about the future. She was more willing to speak about herself and her life, more keen to look forward’

Last week, after her fitting of the prosthesis, she did some steps independently, using an aid. It was a great joy to see her walking, with a great smile on her face! Her new aim is to be able to walk to the centre, about 5 minutes walk from her house, to join one of our church groups.

Reflecting on what’s been achieved, our Director Annie Dupree said ‘It’s such a joy to see her life change and also for us to learn about working together, to bring about holistic change’. This lady is still on the journey to recovery, but is taking steps to recovery. We are committed to being a different kind of bridge in her life where she is built up, finds hope, and plays a full part in community life.

By Xhina Uzuni, Rehab Programme Leader