Earlier this month, we set off on an exciting journey to Cairo, Egypt, for our second international prosthetic product trial at the renowned Agouza Rehabilitation Centre. This project was made possible through collaboration with the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), the United Procurement Office (UPA), and the dedicated team at the Agouza Centre. Together, we witnessed the transformative impact of the ExpHand firsthand, seeing how it filled people with joy and renewed confidence as they embraced their new prosthetics.
A Partnership with Purpose
Our primary point of contact in Egypt was Dr. Ahmed Ebeid, whose expertise and commitment were invaluable to the success of this trial. Dr. Ebeid organised the trial participants and facilitated our collaboration with the Agouza Centre’s prosthetists and technicians. Their team played a crucial role in fitting the prosthetic devices we had manufactured in the UK, ensuring each patient received personalised care.
The Agouza Rehabilitation Centre, a leading facility that supports both civilian and military rehabilitation, holds a significant place in Egypt's healthcare system. As the first of its kind in the country, it was the ideal environment to conduct this trial, blending traditional methods with modern manufacturing techniques.
Day 1: A Tour of Innovation and Care
Upon arrival, we were given a comprehensive tour of the Agouza Centre. We visited patient consultation rooms, rehabilitation areas, and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities where prosthetic limbs are crafted using both traditional casting and modern technologies like CNC machining, thermoforming, and lamination. We also saw the orthotics and orthopaedic manufacturing units, underscoring the breadth of care provided at this incredible facility.
After the tour, we got straight to work, fitting six patients with new prosthetic limbs. Each device was carefully tested for comfort and functionality, with patients performing tasks like picking up and placing objects. Seeing the impact these devices had on their ability to perform everyday actions was an incredibly rewarding experience for all involved.
Day 2: Fine-Tuning and Diplomacy
On the second day, we fitted an additional three patients, each with unique needs. This included adjusting stabilizing devices and testing new supporting parts to ensure the perfect fit. Every small adjustment made a noticeable difference in the patients' comfort and confidence.
That evening, we were honoured to attend a dinner hosted by the British Ambassador to Egypt, Gareth Bayley, and His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, John Humphrey, at The Residence, British Embassy. The dinner was attended by an array of exciting guests, including Egypt’s heads of banks and representatives from large multinationals. It was a fantastic opportunity to discuss the broader implications of our work in Egypt and the potential for future collaborations.
Day 3: Overcoming Challenges
The third day of our trip brought with it our most challenging case: fitting a young woman with an integrated socket prosthesis. Her story was particularly moving, as she had lost her limb in an accident while working at the Agouza Centre with her mother. Now employed in the Centre's kitchens, both she and her mother were overjoyed to see her fitted with a prosthesis that would restore much of her independence. It was a moment that highlighted the incredible impact we hope to make for many for children and families through ExpHand.
Following the final fitting, we had the privilege of presenting our work alongside Dr. Ebeid at a physiotherapy and rehabilitation conference being held at the Agouza Centre. This was an excellent platform to showcase the advancements in prosthetics we are bringing to Egypt and beyond, and to discuss the future of rehabilitation technology in the region.
Looking Ahead
After our visit to Kenya last month, our time in Egypt marked yet another pivotal moment in our journey. The partnership with the FCDO, UPA, and the Agouza Rehabilitation Centre allowed ExpHand to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need, while also deepening our understanding of the unique challenges faced by rehabilitation patients in Egypt. We're excited to continue fostering collaboration and expanding our efforts to deliver life-changing prosthetics to even more people around the globe.
So, the only question that remains is… where to next?
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