Faculty of different departments of COHS and Physiotherapy students participated and rendered services in the recently concluded Special Olympics UAE Games between 8th – 9th of June 2024.
Dr. Meruna Bose, Assistant Professor of Physiotherapy, trained as Clinical Director-FunFit, participated in inclusive health assessment in Special Olympics UAE event.
Dr. Maha Zaitoun, Associate Professor of Audiology, trained as Clinical Director – Healthy Hearing program, conducted hearing screenings to athletes, promoting better health and inclusivity.
Dr. Rizwana Hussaindeen, Associate Professor of Optometry, trained as Clinical Director-Opening Eyes, participate screening vision to athletes, promoting better health and inclusivity.
The Healthy Athletes program includes FunFeet, Healthy Hearing, Opening Eyes, Strong Mind, and Special Smiles.
Students learnt about feet examination in details from expert podiatrists posted in the camp. In addition, students gained hands on experience to evaluate the biomechanics of feet and gait of people of determination. Through this camp they learned more about strength of empathy, resilience, patience and professionalism being in healthcare profession.
The athletes who participated in various sports like badminton, basketball, football & powerlifting were screened for any foot deformities, skin problems, biomechanical and gait deviations. They were informed about the findings and referred to appropriate experts for future consultation for physiotherapy, orthopaedic, dermatology or podiatry. They returned from the camp with a big smile on their face after receiving their gifts to take care of their feet.
Physiotherapy students expressed their heartfelt gratitude for being given this opportunity to volunteer in Special Olympics UAE Games.
MPT student Ms. Misha Bhagat (2023MPT01) said “Thank you for giving me this opportunity to volunteer at Special Olympics, UAE 2024. It gave me a hands-on experience and enhanced my assessment skills in the Fit-Feet area. It was exciting and enormous experience to work with special athletes who inspired me to do better in life.”
BPT student Ms. Therese (2021PT10) expressed “It was an honour to volunteer at the Special Olympics for People of Determination. Assisting athletes with disabilities, and collaborating with remarkable Podiatrists, expanded my skills and enhanced my ability to support diverse physical needs with greater expertise and compassion. This experience forged a new perspective within me for the better.”
To echo the same thoughts, Ms. Shehzeen (2021PT13) said “As a FitFeet volunteer at the Special Olympics UAE, I examined athletes’ feet, assessed their ankle joint motion, and analyzed their gait for abnormalities. This experience enhanced my ability to detect foot deformities and perform biomechanical assessments, under the guidance of leading podiatrists.”
Few thoughts other of undergraduate volunteers:
“The Special Olympics UAE Games 2024 was a wonderful opportunity for us students. We met people of determination worldwide and participated in their foot and gait examinations. This experience enhanced our analytical skills and highlighted the importance of human connection in our profession. We also learned a lot from amazing podiatrists, which significantly refined my skills.” – Ms. Mehak Gulati, 2021PT09.
“Diagnosis and treatment are the aspects usually explored in any medical profession, but this event emphasized the importance of population-wide screening and awareness. At our ‘Fit Feet’ pavilion, we focused on podiatric screening, measuring ideal and current shoe sizes, and highlighting the impact of improper footwear on foot health. This experience in public health and awareness was truly unique and rewarding.” – Ms. Diya Thakur, 2021PT11.
“The event was filled with energy, empowerment and expertise. Being exposed to the variety of amazing people and patients made me reflect on life and my career as a physiotherapist in a completely new way which I will cherish forever.” – Mr. Balaabishek Ramaprabaharan, 2021PT08.
Praveen Kumar, Dean, COHS, congratulated faculty and physiotherapy student volunteers who provided essential support services to the athletes. He expressed it is pleasure to watch students learn from live experiences and is confident that such experiences will enrich their professional growth.