Prosthetics firm assists new and numerous amputees in devastated Haiti
Mar 1, 2010 Updated: Aug. 28, 2017 7:25 p.m.
TORRINGTON -- In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that killed tens of thousands of Haitians and destroyed much of the island nation, yet another devastating consequence has been the number of new amputees. Exact numbers are difficult to obtain, but current figures indicate up to 2,000 people have lost a limb. BioMetrics Prosthetics & Orthotics has answered the call from international organizations and will be donating approximately $15,000 in prosthetic equipment to help meet the massive needs of Haitian amputees. BioMetrics president Bob Dzurenda offered "Like most individuals and corporations, we were horrified by the level of destruction caused by the quake and believe it is important to do what we can to support the people of Haiti. In our case as a prosthetics company we have a unique ability to make a difference to people who lost limbs." Poor construction has been blamed for building failures that resulted in unprecedented crushing injuries. Torrington Branch Manager David Rooney commented, "Sadly, while many of the amputations have occurred due to building collapses, the amputations may not yet be over. Many amputations are caused by infections from cuts and abrasions. Sometimes the choice is between removing the infected limb or death. It's a tragic situation."
BioMetrics is making their donation through Physicians For Peace. Dzurenda added "we've been working with Physicians For Peace for 8 years and feel fortunate knowing our donations are going to people in need."
Prosthetic Technician Peter Pocsi shared "I tried to anticipate the specific needs of the Haitian people and picked prosthetic components to meet those needs. We have titanium components that are lightweight and very durable, some state-of the-art artificial feet, very solid knee components, and even an entire carbon fiber leg for an above the knee amputee." Dzurenda points out "One unique challenge is that a number of children have undergone amputations. As the kids grow they will need new artificial limbs to meet their development. I'm hopeful our company and other prosthetic firms will be able to continue to support these kids and their needs as they get older and until Haiti has the resources to take over." As David Rooney added "It's great to think that perhaps some of the people we're helping may become leaders and play a role in the re-building of their country. The ability to be mobile is important everywhere, but in a devastated country with such a high-poverty rate, the ability to be independent may make the difference between being able to hold a job and support a family, and being without hope and dependent on others." According to Dzurenda "It is the stated goal of organizations working in Haiti to train Haitians to provide services to their fellow citizens as part of their re-built infrastructure. At BioMetrics we feel proud to support this goal. Who knows -- maybe one of the children we help today will grow up to teach, lead, or somehow help others. From our point of view, everyone at least deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams."