Thursday was our third service day at Missionaries. The wheelchair team finished up three chairs and decked out Suzie's chair with racing stripes and all. While Suzie was waiting on her chair she was pampered, as any 18 year old would love, by getting her nails painted while listening to music and watching us crazy people dance and sing. Not quite sure if she enjoyed our singing, but some of us can really hit some good notes (not naming anyone specifically, but her name starts with a 'J' and rhymes with 'will'). Katie and I worked with the children in the OT/sensory room. Following our day with the children we finished with an hour of shopping at the market. We all found some awesome gifts, along with some goodies for ourself :) The day was not over as we had about 2 hours of work to do for our care plans for Missionaries. Although the day was long it was all worth it.
The ABI group took a field trip on Thursday to the Centro de Capacitacion Ocupacional (CCO), a center in Guatemala which serves mid- to high-functioning adolescents with a multitude of disabilities. At this center they learn important daily occupations, such as making their bed and putting away their clothes, as well as going to classes to learn the good ol' reading, writing, and arithmetic. After these classes are completed, the students are able to choose an occupation to specialize in, including cooking, bakery, craftsmanship, and janitorial skills. The center was a perfect example of practicing occupational therapy in a productive, functional way for those who may need it most. At the end of the tour, the children danced for us to practice for an upcoming recital they will put on for their families, and invited us to dance with them. It was the most fun immersive experience we've had all trip! The rest of the evening was spent using what we learned at CCO to construct plans and activities for the residents of ABI.
On Friday, the ABI group had a long meeting with the occupational therapists and managerial staff to discuss positive therapy plans for the residents and how to put them into motion. We were also able to present the therapeutic materials and tips on what more could be made. The staff and residents of ABI had prepared a small celebration, which included dances and gifts, to express their gratitude to us.
Friday was also a half day at Missionaries followed by a visit to Steve and Shyrel's (Amor Del Nino) to squeeze in some time cooing at babies. Today was an emotional day knowing it was our final day at our service sites, yet so rewarding. We ended the day celebrating Lisa and Rolando's soon-to-be new addition to their family with a surprise baby shower (complete with a Blue Blob cake)!
Written by:
Colleen C.-OT student
Krista F.-MOT
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