Clear Path International
Removing Obstacles that Stand in the Way of the Health, Safety, and Development of Children and their Families

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February 24, 2007

Thai Burma Border: Recreational Therapy At Care Villa

Posted by: Lobke Dijkstra
Landmine Survivors at play at the Care Villa on the Thai - Burma BorderLandmine Survivors at play at the Care Villa on the Thai - Burma BorderLandmine Survivors at play at the Care Villa on the Thai - Burma BorderLandmine Survivors at play at the Care Villa on the Thai - Burma Border


Landmine Survivors at play at the Care Villa on the Thai - Burma BorderI had heard them singing before. I had heard them talking before. I had heard them praying before. But I had never heard them laughing. The guys of the Care Villa; a special group of mostly young men, severely handicapped due to landmine accidents.

Last week, Astrid and I went back to the Care Villa in Mae La refugee camp to start a program of physical activities. The atmosphere was different than usual; the bamboo hut was filled with excitement. The guys were ready for some fun and so were we.

Within no time the balls with bells were being exchanged between arms and legs, forces were measured by pulling ropes and I could only smile from satisfaction when I saw how much fun they had. How much fun we had. Although I had met them many times before, and had intensive interviews with every one of them, it was as if I got to know completely different people. I discovered a whole new side of the Care Villa that I had never seen before. The joy and excitement, it is a true motivator to continue this program. Astrid’s enthusiasm, her exuberance is just what we needed here.


Lobke Dijkstra,

Physical therapist and country rep in Thailand

Landmine Survivors at play at the Care Villa on the Thai - Burma Border
Posted by Lobke Dijkstra at February 24, 2007 07:57 PM
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hi there Lobke,

I love your post and just want to express the wonderful work you are doing at Maesot.

Keep the post coming. I really missed my time at the "Care Village". Their wonderful music is very much in memories that I hope to able to visit them in the near future.


Regards,

lori

Posted by: lori on February 28, 2007 08:14 PM

Hi Lobke, Lori and Astrid,

I am a post-graduate architecture student studying in London. My colleagues and I visited Mae Sot and Mae La just over a month ago in January.

Unforunately I did not know about Care Villa while I was there. From your blogs it seems like an amazing place.

The focus of my research is looking at integral rehabiltiation for mine victims and their families, particularly for migrants who may not have access to these.
I would really appreciate it if I can email any of you who have worked as physiotherapists in Mae Sot further.

Kind Regards

Bonnie
(blychu@gmail.com)

Posted by: Bonnie on March 4, 2007 03:46 AM
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