Happy hearts

The therapy camp is off to a good start. Fortunately OTs are pros at problem solving, because we've conquered one obstacle after another.

Today it is the wind; it keeps the temperature down, but sand is everywhere  (I mean everywhere!) and the women couldn't cook (open fire concept). So a few of the men erected makeshift barriers around the cooking area.

Here are some of the kids on Tuesday:

 Here is our Valentine's Day party :

I got a Valentine! 

It made my day 😊❤

 Here is one of our kids walking today after we fitted her with pink ankle -foot orthotics (AFOs). She's using an assistive device that resembles a tricycle as Oumarou and Deb help to steady her.

There was a poignant moment for me this morning when a mama asked a Nigerian interpreter, "Do the women in the West have babies like this [with disabilities], too?" It was explained that yes, these diagnoses can occur anywhere and to anyone. It was important to try to dispel the myth that the women or their families are being punished for something they might have done or didn't do, or cursed by an enemy.

Some of the moms are quickly picking up the ideas of positioning, facilitating play and interaction. All of them have verbalized a commitment to stay for 2 weeks, although it is a cultural norm to say what the speaker wants to hear and not necessarily follow through. We remain hopeful and we are looking forward to student volunteers from Sahel Academy visiting tomorrow to play with the kids.