For many beneficiaries, simply holding a glass of water or picking up an object became an overwhelming moment of rediscovered ability. Some cut vegetables with ease, others operated vehicles confidently, acts they had long been unable to perform. Tears, smiles and quiet disbelief filled the room as individuals experienced the joy of independence once again.
These were scenes from a two-day prosthetic hand distribution camp organised in November at Jeevanjyot Hospital in Beed, Maharashtra. The initiative was spearheaded by RC Beed Midtown, RID 3132, in partnership with Arya Vaishya Mahasabha (Beed), Inali Foundation (Pune), and RC Pune Downtown, RID 3131.
A total of 103 battery-operated electronic prosthetic hands were fitted at the two-day camp. “The devices enabled orthopaedically-challenged individuals to regain mobility, dignity and confidence, bringing a new chapter of hope into their lives,” says club president Rahul Bora.
The camp was inaugurated by PDG Om Prakash Motipawale and other dignitaries from partnering organisations. The closing ceremony, attended by DGE Jayesh Patel and PDG Harish Motwani, also featured a flag exchange ceremony between RCs Beed Midtown and Pune Downtown.
Bora and club secretary Prakash Konka led the effort, with project chairman Nilesh Jagdale and club member Vaibhav Jharkar ensuring seamless execution. “Doctors, physiotherapists, staff of Jeevanjyot Hospital, and several Rotary members worked tirelessly to support every beneficiary through the fitting and training process,” adds Bora.