NUMBER OF INFANT CRIPPLES

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 80, 28 June 1945, Page 2

NUMBER OF INFANT CRIPPLES

BENEFITS OF EARLY TREATMENT NELSON DISTRICT FIGURES The cases on the books of the Nel.son branch of Crippled Children Society at the end of the year were shown at 182. Details of the cases are given in the annual report of the society. The largest increase was stated to be in the infant group, which numbers 38. The report comments: “Although this seems a large number in one particular age group it is a good feature, as by providing expert attention at this early age so many potential cripples will be speedily and easily cured without surgery, and resulting in a corresponding decrease in numbers at a later date. There were 657 visits paid to the office and 148 visits were made to homes. Of the 182 cases on the books 94 are city and Tahunanui, and 88 are country cases, which means a wide territory to be covered by our Welfare Officer." The types of cases dealt with were as follows: loss of limbs 11, T.B. joints 8, osteomyelitis 19. poliomyelitis 19. spinal deformities 13. club feet 20. cleft palate and/or hare lip 4. hip dislocation 8. spastic paralysis 23, other diseases 57. TRIBUTE TO DR. GILLIES “During the year Dr. Alexander Gillies, Orthopaedic Specialist, of Wellington, conducted two clinics, one in July, 1944. and another in February. 1945. when 44 and 46 cases respectively wen? examined, of his recommendations have been carried out, and due to the improved hospital position at Wellington, for the first time since the inception of the branch, we have no waiting list for Wellington Hospital,” adds the report. “It would be difficult to estimate the debt this district owes to Dr. Gillies, who has for the past ten year* conducted these clinics on a voluntary basis, giving freely of his time and knowledge to better the lot of the crippled child. He is indeed their benefactor, and his invaluable help wfil always be remembered with gratitude.” There were reported to be 46 crippled children at primary schools. 9 at secondary and 7 at technical schools. 36 in employment. 9 undergoing vocational training and one engaged in home handicrafts.