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Big Hearts Help Chilean Amputee
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Eddy Leopoldo Fuentes, CPO, protects the liners on Waldo’s residual limb with clear plastic film before casting. Fuentes used fiberglass for casting, which he likes because its plasticity enables him to apply the desired tension. |
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On Friday, September 20, Eddy Leopoldo Fuentes, CPO, a prosthetist with a big heart, boarded a plane for a flight to Chile.
Several individuals and organizations had joined hands to help Waldo Valdebenito, a bilateral amputee, regain both function and hope. Help came through his sister, her friend, the Barr Foundation, and Otto Bock Health Care.
Waldo, age 42, lost his right leg below the knee and his left foot below the ankle in a train accident in 1999. He underwent two surgeries. In the second surgery, his left leg was removed below the knee to supposedly balance his weight on both legs. The prostheses were not appropriately made and fitted. Unable to walk or work, Waldo, who has a wife and three children, struggled with pain and depression.
The story started with Waldo's sister, Yanett Hansen, and her friend and employer, Debra Henry, in the US. They contacted the Barr Foundation, which coordinated the arrangements.
 Fuentes, working with a local prosthetist, Miguel Figueroa, and his technicians, fabricated and built the prostheses. The donated Otto Bock componentry included two full titanium BK setup kits for endoskeletal prostheses, silicone liners and shuttle locks, 1C40 feet, and cosmetic covers.
What was the result? Reported Fuentes, "By now Waldo can stand and walk with confidence, which I expect to improve as time goes by. He liked the suspension and comfort provided by the silicone liners."
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Waldo Valdebenito tries out his new |
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Table Of Contents - November 2002
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