In 2017, the World Forgotten Children Foundation (WFCF) funded $11,155 in support of an ICC (International China Concern) project to allow for the purchase of two Rifton HTC Shower Chairs, one Leckey Advance Shower Chair with stand, one Nimbo Walking Frame, as well as wheelchair upgrades (cushions and lateral supports) for two wheelchairs.

Background

The ICC takes care of more than 350 disabled and abandoned children and young adults in China, providing holistic care in six main areas: rescuing abandoned children, training China's special needs caregivers, providing education, offering nourishing food, providing housing and support, funding surgeries, and working hard to prevent parents from abandoning their special needs children.

Children and young adults with disabilities have the same emotional and cognitive needs as everyone else. Being well-equipped with the proper tools for daily tasks such as showering and mobility, make them feel respected and supports their independence and self-esteem.

Many of the children and young adults in the ICC’s care have Cerebral Palsy and face physical challenges every minute of every day. Having an appropriate apparatus, that suits their individual needs and growth rates, greatly relieves pain and enhances their quality of life. Having properly fitted and updated equipment also minimizes the potential risk of diseases which can stem from infection.

Equipment

The equipment began to arrive in Changsha and Hengyang in October 2017 and are helping 25 different children and young adults suffering from Cerebral Palsy.

Training

During the transition period, professionally trained therapists taught caregivers proper methods to maximize the benefits of this advanced equipment.

The Children

As ICC Children grow up, their old equipment no longer fits. Thus, creating the urgent need for new, adjustable custom equipment. Bin Bin, Yuan Yuan, Liu Xiang, Xin Xin, all the children from the Maple family, the Skylarks family, and the Sunbird family now have the apparatus they need to maintain good posture in their daily lives (when sitting, walking, bathing, etc.) while also keeping up with their continual growth rates. This will undoubtedly have a profound impact on their future by reducing the potential health risks caused by improper posture and offers them a level of independence and mobility that they did not have before. Their quality of life has greatly improved because of this advanced equipment that the ICC recently acquired through WFCF’s funding support.

Thank You! (From the ICC)

Through the WFCF’s generous support, 25 children and young adults (3 children, 1 young adult, and 3 group families), in the ICC’s care who suffer from Cerebral Palsy, are experiencing genuine support and love. Your help not only benefits their current lives, but is also an invaluable gift for their future. Because of your kindness, children who are living with disabilities and who were abandoned will not be left behind. Please accept our deepest gratitude for your generous support!