In the poor north of Albania: physiotherapy in Fushë-Arrëz

Fushë-Arrëz is located in the mountains of northern Albania. Anyone who is ill or needs care there often has little chance. The state healthcare system is weak. Physiotherapy? Unaffordable for most people. And in the entire region: not available at all.

The Capuchins have taken action.  They run a small outpatient clinic in the centre of Fushë-Arrëz - managed by Br Jeremias Borgards, a priest, qualified nurse and Capuchin friar. And since September 2024: a physiotherapy practice. The only one far and wide. The room used to be a storeroom in the old hospital. Thanks to donations from Germany and Austria, it was renovated in just a few months. Now a great deal of work is done there every day.
The demand is overwhelming.

The plan was to use it two days a week. But even in the first few weeks it was clear that this was not enough. Redon Marku, an experienced therapist from the neighbouring town, now comes three times a week. He treats people with pain, restricted movement and paralysis - many after strokes or accidents. People who would otherwise be left alone.

Around half of the patients can pay a small contribution. The others: nothing. But they are treated anyway. Because we believe that everyone deserves help.
To keep it that way, we need you.

We are looking for people who support us. Who say: I'll pay the treatment costs for someone who can't.

A therapy session costs 15 euros.
Maybe you can make one possible? Or three? Or ten?
Every treatment is a step back into life. Thank you for making this step possible.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)