CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S BRIEFING | |
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Dear staff, patients, and partners,
This quarter has been one of significant achievement and impact at FOCOS Hospital.
We celebrated World Patient Safety Day, highlighting our commitment to Improving Diagnosis for Patient Safety.
Our research team achieved international recognition at the 59th Scoliosis Research Society Annual Meeting in Barcelona, and an award-winning oral presentation at the All African Anesthesia Conference in South Africa. Kudos to team FOCOS!
We are incredibly grateful to our partners, particularly 33 Spine Align, who conducted two fully sponsored life-changing surgeries for needy patients. Together with successful surgeries sponsored by donations at the FOCOS Gala last year, these stories showcase the transformative power of our work.
We are also proud to invest in the next generation of healthcare professionals, offering valuable internship experiences to high-school Ghanaian students like Jordan, Teri, Candice, and Makagbe. Their enthusiasm and dedication represent hope for a better future. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
Looking ahead, we are excited about the FOCOS Rehab Project and invite everyone to join us in building a brighter future for our patients. Every contribution, big or small, helps us empower individuals to regain mobility and independence.
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve and helping the world stand tall.
Sincerely,
Irene A. Wulff MD - FWACS, FGCS, MBA
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BODY MECHANICS AND ITS RELEVANCE | |
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Body mechanics involves a coordinated effort of muscles, bones, and the nervous system to maintain balance, posture, and alignment during moving, transferring, and positioning.
Proper body mechanics allow individuals to carry out activities without excessive energy use and help prevent injuries. It includes how we hold our bodies when
- Lying
- Sitting
- Standing
- Lifting
- Moving
When a movement is not done correctly and safely, it subjects the body to abnormal stresses that can lead to degeneration of the structures causing unnecessary wear and tear over time.
Body alignment is achieved by placing one body part in line with another body part in a vertical or horizontal line. Correct alignment contributes to body balance and decreases strain on muscle-skeletal structures. Without this balance, the risk of falls and injuries increase. In the language of body mechanics, the center of gravity is the center of the weight of an object or person. A lower center of gravity increases stability.
This can be achieved by bending the knees and bringing the center of gravity closer to the base of support, keeping the back straight. A wide base of support is the foundation for stability. A wide base of support is achieved by placing feet apart comfortable and shoulder width distance apart.
When a vertical line falls from the center of gravity through the wide base of support, body balance is achieved. If the vertical line moves outside the base of support, the body will lose balance.
(A) A well-aligned person whose balance is maintained and whose line of gravity falls within the base of support.
(B) Demonstrates how balance is not maintained when the line of gravity falls outside the base of support, and
(C) Shows how balance is regained when the line of gravity falls within the base of support.
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RELEVANCE OF PROPER BODY MECHANICS
- Reducing work-related injuries or illness (e.g. vision syndrome, neck and back pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Decrease pain.
- Create safe, comfortable and productive work environment (Taking into account the individual’s body size, strength, skill, speed, sensory abilities and attitudes.)
- Happy employees
- To enhance productivity, improve health, mental insight, product quality, employee engagement, better safety culture.
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We're thrilled to invite you to an exclusive cocktail event supporting FOCOS. This special evening will occur on Friday, November 15, 2024, at City Vineyard (Main Dining Room), 233 West St, New York, from 6 PM to 9 PM EST.
Get ready for a night of connection, celebration, and impact as we come together to support FOCOS’ mission to provide world-class orthopedic care to those in need.
How You Can Support:
• Make a Donation: Please click HERE to make a donation; your generosity helps us provide essential care to children and adults with complex orthopedic conditions.
• Sponsor the Event: Explore sponsorship opportunities and partner with us to make a lasting impact on the lives of our patients by clicking HERE.
• Purchase Your Ticket: Reserve your spot HERE for an unforgettable evening of connections, cocktails, and compassion.
Be a part of our mission to provide high-quality orthopedic care to those who most need it.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
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SUMMER OF LEARNING AND GROWTH | |
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In July, four students from three different schools- The Roman Ridge School, Ghana International School, and SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College- interned at the hospital driven by a shared interest in medical careers and a desire to gain hands-on experience in the world of Healthcare.
Jordan, representing SOS Hermann Gmeiner School, had the opportunity to observe surgeries and shadow a radiologist, gaining firsthand insight into diagnostic imaging and surgical procedures.
Teri, from Ghana International School, worked closely with the neurosurgeons, where she assisted in patient care and explored the complexities of treatments related to the brain and spinal cord.
Candice, from The Roman Ridge School, contributed to the wards by taking vital signs and assisting in administering medications. Her role provided essential support to the medical staff and allowed her to engage directly with patient care.
Makagbe, also from The Roman Ridge School, supported patient care in both the urgent care unit and the wards. Additionally, Makagbe had the opportunity to observe surgical procedures, gaining a comprehensive view of various medical practices.
Throughout their rotation at the Hospital, these students gained exposure to a wide range of medical specialties. They attended educational lectures, participated in interactive workshops, and engaged in meaningful discussions with healthcare professionals, which enriched their understanding of the field.
By the end of their internship, the students had acquired valuable skills and knowledge, and they left the Hospital with a clearer sense of their future in the medical field. Their time at the hospital instilled in them newfound confidence and determination, setting them on a path to pursue their dreams in healthcare.
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In the vibrant town of Elmina, Central Ghana, lives an 11-year-old girl named Akorfa, whose heart is set on a noble dream: to one day serve her country as a soldier. But Akorfa's bright future is clouded by a challenging condition that has severely restricted her mobility. For the past year, Akorfa has struggled with a debilitating issue that prevents her from walking, sitting, or moving comfortably.
Her journey began when her mother noticed an unusual change in her daughter's walk and observed a troubling curvature in Akorfa’s back. Concerned for her well-being, they sought help from various medical facilities, starting from Elmina District Hospital, moving to Cape Coast Hospital, then Koforidua St. Joseph Hospital, and finally reaching the 37 Military Hospital. There, a compassionate advisor suggested they visit FOCOS Hospital, known for its expertise in specialized care.
At FOCOS Hospital, Akorfa was diagnosed with Scoliosis, a condition that urgently requires surgical intervention. The cost of the necessary surgery is a staggering $3,200—an amount far beyond the means of Akorfa's family. Despite her mother’s tireless efforts as a trader to raise the funds needed, their attempts have so far fallen short.
Now, Akorfa’s family turns to the generosity and compassion of the public. They seek support from kind-hearted individuals and organizations to help make Akorfa's dream of becoming a soldier a reality. Your sponsorship can be the beacon of hope that turns her aspiration into a fulfilled promise.
Please click on the ''Donate Now'' tap below to support Akorfa. No amount is too small!
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DR. EMMANUEL SOGAH - DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGIST | |
Dr. Emmanuel Sogah is a diagnostic radiologist who started working at FOCOS Orthopedic Hospital in August 2017 as a medical officer. However, after two (2) years, Dr. Sogah enrolled in the radiology residency program at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he juggled the residency program and took on a few hours of work each week at the FOCOS Hospital.
Currently heading the radiology department, Dr. Sogah oversees the day-to-day running of the unit while ensuring every patient receives their medical imaging reports timely.
Dr. Sogah refers to his work in radiology as that of a medical detective because daily, he sieves through tons of information to arrive at meaningful conclusions. For someone who enjoyed nearly all medical specialties, radiology was a good fit. He strives for excellence in the delivery of his work since the radiologist input constitutes a major part of crucial clinical decision making. In the not-too-distant future, he sees himself as an interventional radiologist, treating a myriad of medical conditions using minimally-invasive techniques.
When Dr. Sogah is not reading medical images, you'll catch him watching movies or the English Premier League during his free time.
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DEBORAH ASAMOAH - SENIOR HR OFFICER | |
Deborah Asamoah is a dedicated Human Resource Professional with a profound passion for recruiting skilled individuals to enhance the quality of healthcare services at FOCOS Hospital.
Her journey began in 2016 as a Patient Advocate in the Social Services Department, where she excelled in various roles including advocacy, counselling, patient and family education, and conducting patient satisfaction surveys. Her exceptional work ethic and eagerness to learn were evident in every aspect of her role.
Deborah's versatility shone through when she transitioned to the Human Resource department. Her rapid assimilation of HR principles and practices allowed her to take on significant responsibilities, ultimately leading her to manage HR projects independently. Her commitment to the HR profession is further highlighted by her Chartered certification from the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management Ghana, which propelled her to the position of Senior HR Officer in February 2024.
Deborah is deeply invested in recruiting the right talent, fostering professional development, and implementing a comprehensive performance management system. She is committed to motivating and retaining key talents to ensure the continuous delivery of world-class healthcare at FOCOS Hospital.
Outside of her professional life, Deborah is passionate about empowering women in her community, reflecting her broader commitment to social impact.
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A huge congratulations to all the authors for their hard work and dedication, especially to our lead author, Dr. Irene Adorkor Wulff, who not only led this impactful study but also won the award for the Best Oral Poster Abstract Presentation! 🏆
This achievement highlights the team’s commitment to advancing safe surgical techniques and enhancing patient care. Congratulations again to Dr. Irene Adorkor Wulff and the entire team for this well-deserved recognition!
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Patient outcome research has continuously guided physicians and surgeons in providing the best care modalities for their patients.
We are thrilled to announce that our current project, "Outcomes of Pediatric and Young Adult Kyphotic Deformities Treated with Vertebral Column Resection at an SRS Outreach Site in West Africa with 5-Year Follow-Up," was presented at the 59th Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) Annual Meeting in Barcelona, Spain.
Congratulations to all the co-authors on this project, especially Dr. Kwadwo Poku Yankey, for this achievement!
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Join the FOCOS Rehab Project and contribute to constructing a new rehabilitation center. This endeavor is poised to make a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals recovering from orthopedic conditions and surgeries.
Our goal with this project is simple: to provide comprehensive rehabilitation services that empower patients to regain mobility, independence, and quality of life. From state-of-the-art facilities to personalized care plans, we are committed to ensuring that every patient receives the support they need on their journey to recovery. Just as the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) extended a matching grant to FOCOS for this project, we require your help to make this vision a reality by matching this grant.
Your generosity will enable us to enhance our rehabilitation facilities, expand our programs, and reach even more patients in need. Whether through financial contributions, in-kind donations, or spreading the word, every act of support makes a difference.
Together, we can transform lives and build a brighter future for those seeking healing and recovery. Join us in making a difference today!
To learn more about how you can get involved or to make a donation, please visit HERE or contact us directly via info@focosus.org
Every Donation Builds A Brighter Tomorrow!
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A Lifeline of Hope: 33 Spine Align's Mission to Transform Lives at FOCOS Hospital | |
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Everyone needs a buddy and that is why we are thankful to have good partnership with the 33 Spine Align team. It was a beautiful day in July when the 33 Spine Align team arrived at the hospital to embark on their first mission trip for the year eager to make a profound difference in the lives of those in need. The team was led by Ryan Normandeau, the Group's president, and consisted of two spine surgeons Dr. Rory Goodwin and Dr. Melissa Erickson. Their mission was clear, to perform two fully sponsored life-changing surgeries for patients who would have otherwise not had access to such specialized care.
The patients, carefully chosen for their surgeries, were understandably nervous, yet filled with hope that these procedures would transform their lives. The first, an adolescent named Daniela, had been battling progressive idiopathic scoliosis, which caused her severe back pain. After exhausting all conservative treatment options with no meaningful relief, Daniella turned to surgery at FOCOS. Following a thorough clinical assessment, Dr. Goodwin and Dr. Erickson swiftly began their work. Through their expertise, they successfully corrected her spinal deformity, bringing immense relief and satisfaction to Daniella, her family, and the surgical team.
The second patient, a 15-year old male teenager named Iddrisu Issah, had been living with severe spine deformity. His spine pathology was noticed when he was a toddler and had progressed significantly leading to lower limb weakness, Iddrisu had episodes of difficult breathing too. Though he mobilized in a wheelchair, he experienced persistent back pain due to his spine misalignment. His back pain was aggravated by sitting. Regardless of his physical challenges, Iddrisu was never deterred. He was eventually assessed by Dr. Yankey and after a comprehensive history and physical examination and radiological review, the decision was made to surgically correct his spine deformity and invariably address his persistent back pain and improve his pulmonary function.
The surgeons worked tirelessly on the operating table. The surgical outcome was pleasing after the procedure. Currently, Iddrisu sits for prolonged periods and his pulmonary function has remarkably improved. He has started school and has integrated well into society. Both surgeries were a success, and the patients were discharged from the hospital a few days later, beaming with joy and gratitude. The 33 Spine Align team had made a tangible difference in their lives, and the impact was evident.
As the team prepared to leave, they were already looking forward to their next trip in December. They planned to take on even more complex cases, using their skills to change the lives of more patients. The hospital is grateful for the team's generosity and expertise. As they departed, the 33 Spine Align team left with a sense of fulfilment, knowing they had made a significant difference, and with an eagerness to continue their mission in the future.
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MEET DANIELLA, FOCOS ''SHERO'' | |
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In the bustling community of Ablekuma, Greater Accra, lives a remarkable 14-year-old girl named Daniella Mensah, who originally hails from Odumase in the Eastern Region. A graduate of Kingdom Academy, Daniella’s bright future was cast into uncertainty when, two years ago, a concerning curvature began to develop in her back.
Her family’s search for a solution led them to Akaway Hospital, where initial observations prompted a referral to FOCOS Hospital. After a thorough assessment, Daniella was diagnosed with Scoliosis. The news was daunting: the required surgery came with a staggering bill. Daniella’s dreams seemed to hang in the balance, overshadowed by the immense financial burden.
Just when hope appeared to be dwindling, FOCOS Gala stepped in as a beacon of hope. Through their generosity, they covered the full cost of Daniella’s surgery, lifting the heavy financial weight off her family’s shoulders.
On July 15, 2024, Daniella underwent the life-changing surgery at FOCOS Hospital. The procedure was a success, followed by a week of careful observation and care from the medical, nursing, physiotherapy, and dietary teams. Daniella’s recovery was swift and promising, showing encouraging signs of improvement.
With hearts full of gratitude, Mr. and Mrs. Mensah, on behalf of the entire Mensah family, extend their deepest thanks to FOCOS Gala and the dedicated team at FOCOS Hospital. Their support has not only transformed Daniella’s life but also restored her hope for a bright and healthy future.
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FOCOS Hospital Marks World Patient Safety Day 2024: Focus on "Improving Diagnosis for Patient Safety | |
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The Hospital joined healthcare institutions worldwide on 17 September 2024 to celebrate World Patient Safety Day, focusing on the theme "Improving Diagnosis for Patient Safety." The event emphasized the vital role that accurate and timely diagnoses play in preventing harm and enhancing patient care.
The celebration featured insightful discussions on addressing diagnostic errors and improving patient safety, providing a platform for healthcare providers to share experiences and innovative solutions. A webinar further enriched the event, with guest speakers offering real-world case studies and best practices to enhance diagnostic accuracy in healthcare.
Adding a fun element, a patient safety quiz engaged staff from various departments, promoting teamwork while reinforcing critical knowledge about patient safety. This activity highlighted the importance of continuous education in maintaining high standards of care.
Under the slogan "Get It Right, Make It Safe," FOCOS Hospital reinforced the need for open communication and collaboration between healthcare providers and patients. By working together, both can identify potential issues sooner and take prompt action, ensuring improved patient safety outcomes.
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Non-profit evaluator Charity Navigator has awarded FOCOS with a four-star rating for
2024-2025! Charity Navigator bases its ratings on non-profits' financial health and
commitment to accountability and transparency. This is the highest possible rating and a huge achievement for FOCOS!
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Thank you to all of our partners, sponsors, donors and other patrons for your continued support. We are truly grateful to you for inspiring commitment to changing lives, furthering research and education, and sustainability. It is because of you that we are able to help change lives for the better!
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FOCOS is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization. All donations are fully tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Goods or services were not exchanged upon receipt of this donation. A copy of our current financial statement is available upon request by contacting the Foundation of Orthopedics and Complex Spine, Inc. at: 377 Oak Street, Suite 407, Garden City, New York 11530, 212.308.7730. In accordance with the State of New York Department of Law Solicitation and Collection of Funds for Charitable Purposes regulations, documents and information submitted to the New York State Attorney General Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271. | | | | |
