Technician Returning to Zambia to Transform Lives

Prosthetic technician, Hannah Van den Bulck is looking forward to heading back to Zambia this April to help people in need of artificial limbs.

This will be Hannah’s second year joining an international team of volunteers who come together for 10 days of intensive, hands-on work.

The work is fast-paced and often very different from the workshop environment back home. “You don’t always have the same things to hand that you’re used to,” Hannah explains. “Often you need to fix something on the spot. You have to think quickly, problem-solve as you go and make the most of what’s available. Every day is a learning experience.”

Patients sitting together in front of the clinic. Patients are transported to the clinic by bus at the start of the 10-day visit. Some receive help straight away, while others require more extensive work. The following six days are spent making and repairing devices, before patients return in the final days for fittings and adjustments.

“The people are so friendly and grateful,” Hannah says. “It’s incredible to see how something that seems small to us can completely change someone’s life. I’m really looking forward to seeing the patients again and being part of the experience.”

Hannah helping a patient learn to walk with their new device.

Hannah also values the collaborative spirit of the team. “Everyone is there to help, and that makes a big difference. Even though the conditions are completely different from what we’re used to, together everyone makes it work.”

The volunteer initiative is run by Prosthetic Promises In His Name. Prosthetic Promises also offers opportunities for non-trained volunteers, as well as ways to support the work from home. “It’s an experience you never forget, and I can’t wait to return,” says Hannah.

Prosthetic Promises was founded in 2012, in partnership with New Day Orphanage in Mapanza, Zambia, where the clinic is located. To date, volunteers have completed 13 trips, with the number of patients seen growing each year.