End Mile Connect (EMC)
EMC serves both government and private homes that provide basic rehab care for OAS
CwSN or children in need of care and protection (CNCP) in the community or private sector.
Impact (2021-22)
- Enabled the measurement, prescription and training for mobility aids for two children in collaboration with The Association of People With Disability (APD)
- Conducted 3 camps for assistive device assessment and referrals
- Organised 4 camps in rural communities of Karnataka to assess the need for assistive
- devices, in collaboration with The Good Sam Foundation
- Screened 60+ children in rural Karnataka where 35 were identified with special needs
- and required assistive aids
- Supported 2 child care homes with household articles such as fans, dining tables, and other furniture
An EMC Story
Deepa (name changed), is a 16-year-old girl from Yalachipalya, in the outskirts of Bangalore, Karnataka. An excellent student with many aspirations, Deepa’s life took a drastic turn when a two-wheeler ran into her while she waited at the bus stop. Her injuries were severe and 80% of her left leg had to be amputated to save her life.
Deepa and her family struggled to accept this new situation, and Deepa slipped into depression, not willing to think of a way forward. A Village Rehabilitation Worker brought PACT’s attention to Deepa in July this year. After some cajoling, Deepa accepted counselling. That helped her understand that normal life was still possible with the right support and training.
The preparatory phase included strengthening exercises for both the legs and arms to take the weight of the new prosthesis when fitted. A hybrid model of preparatory rehab was introduced where the initial sessions were in person and the follow-ups were through teleconsultation.
After about 1 month of phased strengthening exercises, Deepa was ready for the new prosthesis. With the help of APD India and The Good Sam Foundation, measurements were taken, and she received her new prosthetic leg in September 2021.
It is hard to describe Deepa’s joy as she stood independently after such a long time. Her dream of becoming a doctor to help others like her seems much more achievable now.
We wish her the best, and we will be there to support her in every way, connecting her to the right resources at the right time.