This week’s blog post is from Sandra, one of our rehabilitation promoters at ASELSI in Chichicastenango. She has worked with us for eight years now. A few weeks ago, she and Tashi, another rehabilitation promoter at ASELSI, traveled to Canilla to help me train new rehabilitation promoters there while I was in the States. Here are her thoughts, as she shared them with me, about the experience.

Tashi and I had the opportunity to teach the promoter students in Canilla on transfers, the moving from one surface to another, such as from the bed to the chair.  We started the class with a few questions, and it seemed the students did not understand. When we handed out the notes, they understood better. However, we realized the importance of thoroughly explaining how to do each activity and treatment. We found it better not to ask any questions until we had thoroughly explained things and given them the opportunity to practice.

The entire experience was interesting. I discovered how they learned and participated. Everyone tried each of the transfers. It was funny sometimes, but they all worked together to learn the new information. I loved sharing with them about how difficult it was for me to learn some of these complex concepts, but thanks to God, I learned it.

I love teaching these things to others because I know how important it is to learn them well so we can move patients in a safe and effective way.  Everyone has different abilities as rehabilitation promoters or patients. Some of our patients can be taller and bigger than I, so learning how to help them move is important. I love the opportunity to teach others because, as I said, I know how important it has been for me. I appreciate Jennifer and Shes for all the teachings they have shared with us that are so helpful.