Reflection by Brielle Eby

We started off the morning by going to an orphanage for children with disabilities. Many of the children there had little to no function in their arms or legs and had special chairs or beds they laid on. After touring the building, we split up into two groups and played with the kids. One group went to a classroom and did sand art and crafts with the kids while the other group helped in the physical therapy room moving their limbs and using the massage machine to stimulate their muscles. It was great to see some of their smiles and be able to show love to them. Following their morning activities, we helped to feed them and lay them down for nap time. It was difficult seeing the children unable to move and play, making many of us emotional.

However, it was great to see how many volunteers were supporting the children in the clean and nice facilities where the children lived. Towards the end of our visit, we delivered the donated items for both the kids and staff. These items included toiletries, diapers, and even stuffed animals for our new friends to enjoy. Some of the workers there were paid staff and others were volunteers but they were very appreciative to have us come and spend time with them. When we left, Mrs. Williams reminded us to think of these kids when we go through hard times and that we have a lot to be grateful for when wake every day with working arms and legs.

Editors note:

Not all of the children in this facility were orphans but almost all lived there 24/7 and had severe disabilities.  The experience of meeting these kids put many of us (including me) outside our comfort zones.  I personally was fighting back tears as I interacted with “Tram” who was confined to a bed on the floor.  Using my phone, I showed hm videos of our students on this trip.  It was difficult to ascertain whether anything was meaningful.  Feeding was especially difficult as the assistant tried to feed Tram an oatmeal-like substance while he lay on the cot (made it very difficult to swallow).