Service Trip to Ecuador

For the first time, SUNY Upstate Medical University's Doctor of Physical Therapy students have the opportunity to deliver physical therapy services (under the supervision of licensed clinical instructors) to individuals in rural areas of Ecuador who have little to no access to physical therapy services. The purpose of offering this experience is multi-faceted.  The first objective is to experience the health related challenges prevalent  in Ecuador and then to compare these challenges with the challenges experienced in the Syracuse community. The second objective is to assess the unique health care needs of the Ecuadorian community and to strategize appropriate next steps with community leaders and members to meet their immediate health care needs.  Thirdly, we will identify positive health care strategies that are already in place in Ecuador and not only build upon them, but also question the applicability of these strategies to similar needs in Syracuse. We believe this global experience will be life-changing and make us more appreciative of our cultural and personal differences and similarities.


We will be embarking on this service learning experience in Ecuador from December 14 to December 23.  We will posting a daily blog of our experiences and encounters  so you will be able to follow our journey 'live' by following the blog.  We are excited to share what we are learning with our friends and family members.

 

As you might imagine, the cost for this type of an experience to a graduate student is not inconsequential.  We are therefore soliciting donations to help offset our costs.  We are grateful for donations of any amount and thank you in advance for helping us in this manner.  You can make a tax deductible donation in the name of the physical therapy global service learning program at https://www.upstatefoundation.org/PTEducation.  Again, please be sure to designate the donation for physical therapy global service learning.