Rasika\'s Bridge to Dorset

Rasika came to Dorset Orthopaedic, funded by a small charity 'Bridge 2 Sri Lanka', hoping to get the prostheses he needed to help him walk again. The charity's founder, Sarah Griffith, personally delivers support and assistance to those in Sri Lanka most in need, following the Tsunami disaster. Sarah accompanied Rasika to Dorset Orthopaedic after several months of fundraising on his behalf.

Rasika lost both legs above the knee in a freak train accident while playing football with a group of friends near his home. When Sarah met him he was living in very poor conditions with his family, who had previously depended upon him to provide their only source of income.

Prior to the accident Rasika was a highly active, energetic and talented footballer, so when Sarah asked what his family most wished for, his little sister replied "new legs for Rasika please madam".

Our clinicians were very careful not raise Rasika's hopes too high prior to his visit. This was not only Rasika'a first visit to us but his first journey out of Sri Lanka. Rasika had been completely wheelchair bound since his accident and his Prosthetist, Kevin Shaw, had seen only photographs prior to Rasika's first appointment in May 2009.

Achieving a positive and successful outcome seemed a long way ahead initially with many challenges to overcome for both Rasika and for Kevin. However, privately we held high hopes of realising this young man's wishes, with, a powerful formula was created.

On 2 July 2009, Rasika's determination coupled with Kevin's dedication and expertise, allowed Rasika to walk again. The brilliant smile that lit up Rasika's face as he walked unaided around the clinic spoke volumes - he had achieved his sisters most desired wish for those "new legs please madam"!

We have kept in close contact and hear that even after a long flight home from the UK, Rasika walked into his home to meet his family wearing his new limbs.

Bridge 2 Sri Lanka has now set Rasika up with work, as a technician, in the workshop opened by the charity in Sri Lanka producing hand crafted bags and jewellery. We wait with eager anticipation to see how things progress for Rasika and look forward to following this amazing young man's story.