Trans-mission Partnerships

Inspirations

Pictured below is Viorel, a special man from a Romania. Living in a village called Varmaga, near Deva. Coming to know Viorel was a major inspiration for all the work that's taken place since. This is where the quote "Offering a small amount can make a huge difference" originated.

At a very young age, Viorel attended Kindergarten just like similar aged children in his village. One day he his legs ached and began to give way. Soon he was unable to walk until eventually, he became bed-ridden. For almost 40years he lay on his bed in a back bedroom (out of sight) with nothing to do or live for. His family loved him and cared for him, but without resources or support, had little extra to offer.

When meeting Viorel it was difficult. Not only trying to come to terms with the conditions for Viorel, but also trying to communicate. It was difficult for him to speak and then he spoke in Romanian. However, with patience and over a number of visits, communication became easier thanks to Maria, our translator.

Soon Viorel's personality began to shine through. Not only did he enjoy football and other 'normal' interests, but we discovered he had a lovely sense of humour and was blessed with a deep sense of peace. Gradually, we transformed his room by taking a television and covering his wall with pictures of football teams. (especially Newcastle United)

Deciding to try and help Viroel physically we invited a friend from Newcastle upon Tyne who is a Physiotherapist. Clare spent a week of her holiday which totally changed Viorel's life for ever. While I expected Clare to work with Viorel's body, most of her time was working with his family. Showing how to manipulate Viorel's joints and muscles. By the end of Clare's week, we were able to 'bundle' Viorel into the back of an old Scoda car and took him back to the school that he once attended in the kindergarten.

This was Viorel's 1st time out of his house for around 40 years.
Since that day, Maria (The translator) and friends have taken Viorel out frequently with the use of a special wheel chair from the UK. He's become famous in the village and throughout the region. Can you imagine the difference to Viorel and also to his family? "A small amount making a huge difference".