Amputee Indian expatriate gets wheels to drive his life
abu dhabi — The big smile on Gurbinder Singh’s face is back. The expat who was bedridden since February has just finished few rounds outdoor in his custommade wheelchair. In June, Khaleej
Times had reported the plight of Singh, who lost his legs and hands following a workplace accident. And it helped him receive Dh200,000 compensation from his company.
However, Singh is now happier than ever. Dubai-headquartered Aster Healthcare followed Khaleej Times’ June 9 report, ‘Expat who lost hands, legs says he is as good as dead’, and has provided him with a customised wheelchair. By next month, he will be shifted to Aster Medcity Kochi in Kerala for rehab programme. He will also get artificial limbs, which will help him stand on his feet again. And doctors will also try and enable him hold a spoon to eat.
Singh is now eagerly waiting the day he could give surprise to his two children back in Punjab by standing on his legs. For now, the wheelchair has renewed hope in his life.
“I was a crane operator and used to such a lever,” he said while moving his wheelchair. “I am very happy and doing well also. Now I am looking forward to the rehab programme in Kochi. I will get limbs and will be able to stand again. It will be a great surprise for my two children,” the 42-year-old said from his room in Baniyas.
Aster DM Healthcare general practitioner Dr Satish Kosuri said the medical team had visited Singh weeks ago.
“Our medical team assessed the situation. Later, we connected with our experts in India through a live telemedicine programme. Doctors checked all medical records. As part of the rehabilitation programme, the first recommendation suggested by them was to make Singh independent. Wheelchair is the first step,” Kosuri said.
“After initial assessment, Dr Vijaya Mohan from Kochi told Singh that he will soon walk. We are also trying to make his right hand work for regular use like eating with a spoon etc. We have also given him physiotherapy sessions,” said Ko-
Now I am looking forward to the rehab programme in Kochi. I will get limbs and will be able to stand again. It will be a great surprise for my two children.” Gurbinder Singh
Now he doesn’t need anyone’s help but can go around on his own. Now we aren’t alone and have a feeling we will regain whatever we have lost.”
Rajwinder Kaur, wife of Gurbinder Singh
suri, who is also part of the Aster Volunteers Programme launched last year.
Jaleel PA, assistant general manager, corporate social responsibility at the hospital, said it was a collective effort from the management, doctors, paramedics and Aster volunteers to help Singh.
“Things work well when we are together for a common cause. Singh can now move around independently, which is an exciting thing.”
Jaleel said: “The wheelchair is UK-made special product for Singh, and then our pharmacy team made changes suited to the requirements. This can be further customised. Our founder Azad Moopen didn’t think twice before offering full support.”
Singh’s wife Rajwinder Kaur said her husband has strong will power and the help from all corners, has lifted the spirits.
“My husband has confidence that he will be back in the same form he was once. Now he doesn’t need anyone’s help but can go
Things work well when we are together for a common cause. Gurbinder Singh can now move around independently, which is an exciting thing.” Jaleel PA,
Aster DM Healthcare
around on his own. Now we aren’t alone and have a feeling we will regain whatever we have lost,” she said.
Meanwhile, Surjit Singh, a community leader who is closely associated with the case, said: “The family has received help (compensation) and other financial assistance. With Aster Healthcare providing for rehab programme, the amount received will remain intact as a saving. It is our wish to see him run not just walk,” he said.