Crutches for Komang

Komang Sedana Putra is a young man of 22. Part of his left leg was amputated two years ago following a traffic accident. Komang has become used to moving around on two crutches but these are creating a poor posture. In addition, his crutches are in poor condition. Komang’s mobility is restricted and he is forced to remain at home much of the time as he is dependent on others if he wishes to travel any distance.

Request
Crutches for Komang for the correct posture and the best possible walking position. Request submitted by Elly and Casey Godrie, employees of the Foundation.

Komang

Request accepted
APA Foundation has provided Komang with two crutches. They are adjustable and can be adapted to fit Komang. They are also lightweight and so it is easier for Komang to carry them, for example, on public transport. To start with, Komang practised using the crutches and they give him a better posture. The crutches were donated by Welzorg, Amsterdam to APA Foundation.

Background information
Komang’s left leg was amputated two years ago about 15 cm. below the knee. He was provided with two crutches during his rehabilitation period but they are too long and cannot be adjusted because of their poor condition. As a result, he 'hangs' from the crutches and is developing a poor posture.
Komang is the seventh child in a poor family of eight. The family has no transport of its own. Komang rarely leaves home as he cannot walk far using the crutches. He lives about a kilometre from the main road where there is public transport, such as bemos (small buses). He can use bemos, but with difficulty. He is also helped by friends and, for example, can get a lift on a moped.

At the time of his accident, Komang had just started a religious studies course, specialising in Hinduism, at the University in Singaraja. He would have liked to become a teacher. He wanted to resume his studies after his rehabilitation, but that did not prove to be simple. The university had to get permission from the Ministry of Education, but no final decision was made. In the meantime, he has been faced with the idea that continuing his studies, work experience and teaching with a physical handicap would not be easily possible. Komang gave up his studies. He now wants to improve his knowledge of Hinduism by self-study and to work at home to earn money. At the moment, he illustrates folders and magazines.

During a later visit to Bali, employees of the Foundation want to investigate Komang’s wishes and needs regarding:
- opportunities for mobility, whether on public transport or with his own transport
- opportunities for studying