Cuba - OkProsthetics

The kind people at the South African embassy in Cuba, Mr Louis Pienaar, Ex-Counsellor, Mr Thando Nyawose, Counsellor and Ms Mayra Alvarez, secretary to the Counsellor, introduced us to the national prosthetic services of Cuba, the Cuba-RADA in Havana. We were excited at the prospect of meeting the people at the Cuba-RADA having heard many good things about Cuba and their rich tradition of education and helping out in countries in need. Following a short visit and introduction by Anthony Just, the team was invited to do a demonstration in June. Ossur, Bjarni, Anthony and Bjorg made three visits. We were greeted by Mr Yilce Leon de Los Reyes, Director of Cuba-RADA Havana and Ms Isabel Ruiz Martinez, Liaison. After a presentation for all the staff we were shown the facilities. Ossur fitted two amputees with below knee prostheses and then oversaw the Cuban prosthetists fitting a further four patients. Finally we were invited to meet Mr Guillermo Rodriguez Napoles, Director General Cuba-RADA organization across Cuba, for some very positive discussions.

Elvis The standard of facilities and craftsmanship at the Cuba-RADA was excellent. The enthusiasm of the staff and the friendliness we met was truly inspiring. Hopefully we can do much good together both locally and around the world.