LIMITATION LEADS TO VICTORY

LIMITATION LEADS TO VICTORY

Written and submitted by APTANJ member, Yaffa Liebermann, PT, GCS

On our most recent excursion, we stopped in Bhutan. We visited the village “Simple Bhutan ” which encapsulates both past and present lifestyles in Bhutan. We had the opportunity to view traditional dancing and dress, cooking traditions, alcohol production and archery – all activities demonstrated the beautiful lifestyle in Bhutan. It was very interesting to see how the locals live – sustaining themselves in these mountains and welcoming all with open arms.

While visiting, we were fortunate to come upon a “foot” artist by the name of Pema Tshering. Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and abandoned by his parents when he was six, Bhutanese artist Pema Tshering had a chance meeting with Bhutan’s Queen Mother which changed his life forever. With her support, he was finally able to pursue his education and focused his studies on art. His full story can be found at https://goo.gl/T73rR2.

Our unexpected meeting with Pema was deeply touching for me as a Physical Therapist. Cerebral Palsy is one of the most prevalent diagnoses treated by Mobile Therapy Services which provides Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Language Therapy to those with developmental disabilities in New Jersey. Pema, though unable to utilize his upper body, was smiling and welcoming as he laid on his mattress on the ground. He had become accustomed to and skilled at utilizing his feet to create beautiful works of art including both wood carving and painting. We watched him paint with different styles of brushes and vivid colors. We purchased a wooden, painted piece and I asked him to sign it on the back which he was gracious enough to accommodate – even utilizing his feet to sort out bills and correct change for our purchase!

The entire experience with Pema was beyond inspirational – seeing, firsthand, how a person with so many limitations at the start of life can achieve so much. While so many with physical limitations struggle with their mental health, Pema is pushing forward and has created an independent life where he is able to support himself. He is a true testament to the power of positivity and resilience.