I’ve had the incredible opportunity to be part of the wheelchair team twice now, and I recently returned from another fantastic trip to the Mango Tree Centre in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, with the Altus Pacific Aid Trust (formerly known as Altus Resource Trust) volunteer service. Each visit is a rewarding experience, and this year was no exception.

We were delighted to be reunited with some of our previous clients – it was uplifting to see their progress and successes with the equipment and mobility aids that were set up last year.

This year, we welcomed many new clients ranging from just 8 months old and up. Our team, consisting of wheelchair therapists and technicians, carried out home visits and on-site clinics to assess and provide the necessary support. Having my colleague Steve join me made the experience even more enjoyable; working together was great fun and allowed us to share ideas and strategies.

The need for equipment remains very high, particularly in Tonga’s tropical climate, which poses challenges for mobility aids. The hot and rainy seasons take a toll, causing equipment to rust and wear out despite the best care and attention. As a result, repairs or replacements are often necessary.

One of the most touching moments during our trip involved a young man who had not been out of bed in six years due to an accident that resulted in paraplegia.

“When he asked for “anything we might have spare,” it was a call to action that resonated deeply with all of us.”

Thanks to the generosity of companies like Medifab, along with our clients and donors, we were able to provide him with a new power wheelchair, manual chair, mattress, and pressure-relieving equipment. His reaction was unforgettable; he said it was the best day of his life.

“Seeing him drive outside and regain his independence was a moment of joy that no words can fully describe.”

As we look forward to next year’s trip, we are excited about the opportunity to create more memories with the fantastic clients of the Mango Tree Centre. Each visit reaffirms our commitment to Shaping Better Lives through mobility and independence.

For those interested in supporting our work, I encourage you to visit the Altus Resource Trust website for more information or to make a donation. Your contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals in need.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us!