Perspectives Spring 2015

PERSPECTIVES • SPRING 2015 43 will verify, support, and build upon the historic documented progress for LF. Leogane can be a center for international training of LF therapists that are specifically trained under resource-poor nation conditions. Two additional satellite clinics are slated to open over the next 18 months in Northern Haiti to reach the more remote parts of the country. Opportunities for volunteers to join medical outreach trips, conduct research, and earn a unique international dual certification in lymphedema and wound care are available. Training of local Haitian clinicians began in December of 2013 through efforts by the Brazil- ian embassy, with follow-up training and clinic logistics established in January 2014 between NSU and the International Lymphedema and Wound Care Training Institute. From this collab- oration, a modified and novel complete decon- gestive therapy approach to manage LF in Haiti is being developed. Further, protocols for each of the seven stages of LF are being designed for adaptation to environmental and cultural chal- lenges present in Haiti. This will have a major in- fluence on future therapy globally. Plans are also in place to develop a scoring system to rate the stage of lymphedema and skin involvement (based upon the existing staging system) to facili- tate outcomes and quality measures. Dr. Hettrick is currently working on funding for sustainability of the clinic, and there are many ways you can help. For additional information or to learn how you can help, please contact Dr. Hettrick at (954) 262-1856 or hh124@nova.edu . Additional information is available at www.ilw- timedicalmissions.com or www.bringhopetohaiti.com , so please support this NSU initiative and help us bring hope to Haiti. Your support will positively change the lives of many and help shape the country’s future. PICTURED (FROM LEFT) ARE LF CLINIC TEAM MEMBERS... Yves Bangarcon (patient care coordinator) Dr. Hettrick Robyn Bjork, M.P.T., CWS, WCC, CLT-LANA, CLWT (director of education and clinical development) Jean Ariel Clerge (master clinician and lymphatic filariasis physiotherapist) Robyn Smith, M.Ed., COTA/L, CLT, director of volunteer services