by Jennifer M. Rodriguez
United Spinal Association joined the rescue efforts in Southeast and East Asia by donating wheelchairs, adaptive mobility equipment and supplies through the Sri Lanka Mission and Sri Lankan Airlines. The donations were dropped off in Edison, New Jersey, on Tuesday, January 11 to Sri Lankan Airlines Manager, Dillan Ariyawansa, who says there is a great need for mobility supplies in Sri Lanka and that those who have survived and have mobility impairments will benefit greatly by the donations.
Among the donations that will be sent to Sri Lanka are 10 wheelchairs; approximately 20 walkers, canes and crutches; and supplies such as soaps, hair care products and cushions. The donations will be shipped to Sri Lanka, along with a warehouse full of medical and other necessary supplies, via Sri Lankan Airlines.
“I read in the news about paralyzed children in a shelter for the physically disabled and mentally ill in Galle, Sri Lanka, who were powerless in their beds as water rose around them, and I knew that United Spinal had to send a lending hand,” said Victor Calise, Assistant of Special Projects at United Spinal Association. “Although the number of victims that did not survive is insurmountable, we must move forward and provide those who survived with the resources they need to endure this horrific tragedy.”
Jennifer M. Rodriguez is an assistant public affairs officer at United Spinal.
If you’d like to make a contribution to the tsunami relief effort, contact the American Red Cross:
Donate online:
www.redcross.org/donate/donationform.asp
Donate by phone:
1-800-HELP-NOW (1-800-435-7669) English speaking
1-800-257-7575 Spanish Speaking
1-800-220-4095 For TDD Operator
Donate by mail:
American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund
P.O. Box 37243 Washington, D.C. 20013
Jennifer M. Rodriguez is assistant Public Affairs officer.
