SIG-17 Anthologies

Dana Corfield, Peru, 2001 to 2004

Dana building wheel chairs	Dana fitting a wheelchair to a little boy outside	Sandra with children using Symbol Books

How I became involved

My experience working with people with disabilities in Peru began several years ago with a volunteer position at a pediatric rehabilitation centre in Cusco. It has led me through more than 4 years of adventures, learning and love. As a volunteer, I fell in love with the kids I worked with in Cusco, and was so struck by the lack of assistive technology and support services for children with disabilities in Peru (and throughout the developing world) that I became more involved and eventually founded a Canadian, not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping kids with disabilities in developing countries. Most of our work still revolves around Peru and includes promoting and developing assistive technology (in particular AAC services and mobility solutions) and educating people about disabilities, appropriate rehabilitation and support services.

Where I went

Peru is a wonderful place to visit. It is a country full of contrasts. With a long desert coastline, rugged mountains and vast jungle wilderness, there is something for everyone. Peru was also home to the Incas and is full of archaeological ruins, both Incan and pre-Incan. And yet, the most rewarding thing about a visit to Peru is getting to know its people. Peruvians are very warm and welcoming and are very curious about other countries and cultures.

My favorite things

My favorite things about working with children with disabilities and their families in Peru include:

• watching a child the first time s/he is able to get around independently or the first time they communicate something abstract (via AAC).
• watching someone's face as they realize that the abilities of a child with a disability are far greater than they ever imagined
• learning about another culture, language and way of life
• learning more about innovation, perseverance and the human spirit than I could have ever expected

Challenges

Things take a lot longer to get done than we’re used to in North America. I mean A LOT longer. And, of course, language is always an issue if you don't speak Spanish, although people are very patient with the Spanish-challenged. Perhaps some of the biggest challenges when working with people from Peru come from cultural differences and the importance of recognizing and respecting cultural differences.

Other Links

• www.equipkids.org

Contact Dana Corfield with any questions.