06/04/2025
8 years ago, I set off on an unforgettable adventure – bikepacking from Vietnam to India, immersing myself in new cultures, while also volunteering with children with disabilities, particularly doing physiotherapy with kids who experienced motor delays. The journey wasn’t just about exploring new places; it was about learning and sharing the stories of children and families whose voices are often unheard.
Today, I want to share one of those stories.
**Binh – Haiphong, Northern Vietnam**
During my time in Vietnam, I had the privilege of working with a bright and happy 3-year-old boy named Binh. Binh has cerebral palsy and was cared for by his grandmother after his father left, while his mother worked tirelessly to support the family. Binh would arrive all secure on the back of his grandmother’s bicycle. When Binh first presented, he was able to bunnyhop crawl and stand if his grandmother held him under his armpits.
For two weeks, I worked closely with Binh, completing 2 sessions of CME per day. By the end of our time together, Binh could stand unaided with his back against a wall and with assistance, take steps with a walker – a remarkable achievement that brought hope to his family and the physiotherapists at the centre.
The physiotherapists at the centre were great at contracture management and would usually see the children once every fortnight or month. However, after becoming enthused about all the active exercises they were able to do, the physiotherapists and head paediatrician decided to increase the frequency of therapy and shifted the rehabilitation program so they included more active exercises. The parents and carers were also encouraged and decided to build a play room so the kids could receive therapy and play, almost on a daily basis.
Binh’s grandmother, a true hero, was there every step of the way, ensuring Binh received the support he needed at home and during sessions. She was his biggest advocate, and also spent so much time setting up the play room for the other children (last photo).
