So far, over 300 individuals from various parts of the country have already benefited from the Free Distribution Campaign of Lower Limb Prostheses, which is taking place at Maputo Central Hospital until August 6.
The loss of a physical limb, especially a lower one, limits the normal course of life for any person and, as such, affects their level of productivity.
Among the various reasons that lead to leg amputations in the country, diabetes and road accidents (trauma) top the list, according to the health sector. Therefore, it is necessary to take precautions by adopting healthy eating habits and making proper use of public roads.
One of the biggest dilemmas faced by people who, for various reasons, have lost their lower limbs is acquiring prostheses. They are expensive, ranging from 70,000 to 100,000 meticais—prices that are far above what many families can afford.
To change this reality and restore mobility to those in need, India recently made available 1,200 lower limb prostheses as part of an initiative involving the production and distribution of prosthetic limbs. These include components such as pelvic belts, thighs, legs, and feet, in collaboration with the Maputo Central Hospital (HCM).
A few weeks after the launch of this campaign, MozaVibe magazine visited the Maputo Central Hospital, specifically the Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics Services, where it gathered testimonies from some of the beneficiaries.
A BENEVOLENT AND HUMANE ACT
The patients do not hide their joy at finally being able to walk again. The Indian delegation based at HCM has received many patients who heard the news through various channels. Once there, they are welcomed by the healthcare team, who perform a quick visual assessment, take foot measurements, and then produce the prosthesis that brings hope to those who need it most.
“I was suffering, I couldn’t even hold anything, not even fetch water to bathe,” says Mrs. Leonor, 62, who lost her lower limb in 2010. It all started with a small boil on her foot that didn’t heal and spread. Given this situation, the medical decision was to amputate the foot, and that’s how she has lived ever since.
Leonor expresses satisfaction and says her days are now easier.
“I’m happy. What I couldn’t do before, I will now be able to do. That’s all I wanted — at least sweep the yard, clean the house, and carry a basin or bucket to bathe,” she said.
On the other hand, we met Januário Arcanjo, 40 years old. He lost his foot in a mine accident when he was 18. More than 20 years later, he confides that life in the countryside has been hard but expresses gratitude and admiration for the benevolent act, especially because it involves no monetary cost. “It will ease my movement,” he assures.
In the waiting room of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Services, although the desire is the same—to walk again on two feet—the space does not limit age and holds different stories, each with its own uniqueness.
MORE THAN 300 BENEFICIARIES SO FAR
The Director of Orthotics and Prosthetics Services at Maputo Central Hospital, Levy Pinto, states that they attend to an average of 30 patients per day, and each receives their prosthesis on the same day, immediately after production by the Indian technicians.
According to him, the human touch in the process and the hope seen in every eye are some of the factors that make the process swift.
“Being able to walk again is the dream of those who have lost a limb,” said Levy Pinto.
He believes that beneficiaries can return to their normal routine as before the amputation, although the result or body acceptance may not be immediate.
“This process is individual and depends greatly on each person's level of acceptance. Usually, when the patient receives the prosthesis, we allow one week, and after that, the patient can return to the hospital if there’s any issue,” he explained.
Levy assures that all necessary care is being taken to ensure patients receive humane treatment. Certain protocols are followed to prevent potential fraud during the campaign, emphasizing that the process is free and inviting all citizens across the country to participate.
So far, over 300 individuals from various parts of the country have already benefited from the Free Distribution Campaign of Lower Limb Prostheses, which is taking place at Maputo Central Hospital until August 6.
(By Joana Mawai)
