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Hi everyone,
My name is Carrie Brennan, and I’m a master’s physiotherapy student from Leitrim, Ireland. I’ve been studying physiotherapy at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh and will be fully qualified in November 2025.
This November, I’ll be travelling to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania for three weeks to volunteer as a physiotherapist. I’ll be working in a local hospital alongside medical staff to support orthopaedic and paediatric patients—many of whom have limited access to resources.
Tanzania is a country full of resilience and heart, but unfortunately it lacks many of the essential resources we often take for granted in Ireland and Scotland. By volunteering there, I’ll have the opportunity to share my physiotherapy skills, offer compassionate support, and work directly with patients recovering from trauma like mining accidents, RTAs, orthopaedic surgeries, and children living with congenital or neurological conditions. Everyone deserves a fair chance at recovery regardless of where they are born.
During the placement, I’ll be helping patients regain mobility and independence, assessing and treating injuries, supporting post-surgical recovery, working with children with developmental needs, and learning from and contributing to the incredible local medical teams.
Here’s a clear outline of what I’ll be doing in Tanzania:
- Gaining hands on experience treating orthopaedic injuries such as fractures, dislocations, and post-surgical rehabilitation
- Supporting paediatric patients with neurological, developmental, or congenital conditions
- Helping patients regain mobility and independence through tailored physiotherapy exercises and interventions
- Working closely with local healthcare professionals to share knowledge, learn best practices, and support patient care
- Contributing to improving healthcare services by donating any extra funds raised to help the hospital with essential supplies and equipment
This is a self-funded placement, and I’m currently fundraising to help cover the necessary costs.
I’ll be running the Warrior’s Run in aid of this cause.
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs:
- Flights – £1,000
- Accommodation & agency fees (Work the World) – £2,790
- Indemnity insurance – £190
- Visa – £100
- Vaccinations & medical supplies (gloves, scrubs, masks) – £340
- Transport to/from hospital – £300
Total Goal: £4,500 (€5,250)
Every penny raised will go directly towards making this voluntary placement possible. Any extra funds will be donated directly to the hospital in Tanzania to help with vital resources and equipment.
I’ll be keeping you updated throughout my journey and sharing my experiences and progress during my time in Tanzania.
Thank you so much for helping me make this happen and for supporting healthcare where it’s needed most.
Thank you for being a part of this,
Carrie Brennan
Organizer
Carrie Brennan
Organizer