Donated Equipment Brings Huge Smile


 

Adam is 4 years old and has cerebral palsy. After being placed in a new adjustable chair donated by LDS Charities for a just few minutes, it was evident from the smile on his face, he was comfortable and enjoying his surroundings.

From cooks to therapists, drivers to caregivers, dietitians to gardeners; it takes many hands to meet the needs of disabled children and their families in Malaysia. One of the most successful centers for meeting those needs is Tasputra Perkim in Kuala Lumpur. In 1990, chairman and co-founder Hajjah Elahe Norman took on the challenge of leading Tasputra Perkim and building it into a nationally known care center. For the past ten years Elahe and the disabled children have had the enjoyable and fruitful support of working with many representatives from LDS Charities, an arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Elahe told guests "Thank you to LDS Charities, but especially to the wonderful friends from the LDS Church who have helped me. It has made a huge difference here." LDS Charities assists disabled people throughout the world.

On May 26, 2015 Elahe, expressed appreciation to LDS Charities for their donation of new physiotherapy equipment designed to help many patients.  She said, "Thank you so much for this donation for Tasputra. It is like Hari Raya, Deepavali, Christmas and Chinese New Year, all rolled into one". Two R82 customized, adjustable chairs, a bathing chair and 10 accessories were delivered by Pinang Medical Supplies (PMS), a medical equipment supplier from Penang.

The R82company, the manufacturer of the equipment, produces technical aids and appliances for disabled children. Based in Denmark, products are distributed throughout the world. The CEO of Pinang Medical Supplies (PMS), Teh Teong El, described "a very excellent partnership with PMS, Tasputra Perkim and LDS Charities, which can benefit many people".  Tan Wah Chiar, (Charlie) from  PMS will provide training on the new equipment to the physiotherapists. After initial training, she will be a regular consultant to make sure the new equipment is used to full advantage. The new chairs can be adjusted to fit many children with different needs and will aide their physical therapists in providing better care. The objective of the R82 Company is "to provide the child the greatest possible freedom - in a world of movement". That objective is certainly being met at Tasputra Perkim.

Elder Boyd K. Packer, a leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has said when speaking of caring for those with disabilities, "Think of this: Unless we die prematurely, every one of us may end up both physically and mentally handicapped. We would do well to make advance payments of service and compassion on which we may draw when that time comes. Why not help those who have extra concerns because of a handicapped family member. Encourage the teachers and social workers who show such devotion to them. And it wouldn’t hurt you to donate a few dollars or a few hours to one of the many organizations which help the handicapped. If we do this, without the slightest idea of selfishness, it will remain in our account against that time when we may need help. And the works of God will be made manifest in our lives."

Elahe Norman and the entire staff of Tasputra are making those advance payments by serving the needs of Malaysian families and children. The works of God are certainly manifest when one observes the tender care given to the disabled children at Tasputra Perkim.