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"Lifting Up Through Learning" has been the theme of the W/NP Learning Center Program, and the current project of providing garments to burn victims could not be a better example of why the Learning Center Program exists. The sewing skills obtained through the Learning Centers have given the Nicaraguan women and men an exceptional opportunity to come to the aid of burn victims in a very special way, improving their physical and emotional conditions.
 "I have recently joined the group of therapy dressing volunteers, I  feel very well to be supporting people who have suffered from burns. I have shared my knowledge with the whole group and have put into practice what I know when we make the garments for patients. I like to talk with the patients when they visit us for the second time, and see about their health improvement. Also I like to know from the patients how the garments fit and be sure the garments are comfortable enough. I appreciate the opportunity given to me to participate in this project to help people who need it most." - Petronila
Note: Petronila is also one of the Chica Nica seamstresses, please take a moment to visit the Chica Nica website to learn more about Petronila and the other women who make the dresses. The sale of these dresses helps provide much needed income for their families.
Currently, patients from all over Nicaragua come to the W/NP office in Managua on Tuesdays and Saturdays to be measured and receive physician directed garments to help in the recovery process of their wounds. The May 11th explosion near Nueva Guinea has proved a mobile unit is necessary. Eight of the surviving people from the explosion traveled 11 hours to get to the W/NP office, a long trek in good health, and even more challenging during the painful burn recovery process.
Below are photos from July 12th, 2014 Therapy Dressing volunteer staff spent 7 hours measuring and making custom fit garments for the people who suffered severe burns in the explosion mentioned above. Your help is needed to share with others who don't know about this much needed project. It's an amazing example of combining compassion and skills.
Nicaraguan news articles covering July 12th event at W/NP Office in Managua
When people come together for the good of others, it's a win/win for all involved.
The Therapy Dressing project and especially the services provided on July 12th are possible because many caring, compassionate people know humanitarian aid doesn't just happen, it takes a decision to become involved and contribute as you are able to. Special thanks to volunteers who have made individual financial donations, volunteers who give of their time and skills, groups or businesses who have provided support or contributions in various ways; Altrusa Int'l of Marshfield, Sewing with Nancy, Gottfried Medical, Singer Sewing Company, Partners of the Americas Venters Fund, Ministry Health Care, US Embassy Mil Group, Alfinsa, the Lyssa & Andrew Schmidt Charitable Fund, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Funded Transportation Program, US Southcom, Crowley Liner Services, Onvoy/Badger Plug Co., Moodie Trucking, and to all of you reading this newsletter for taking time to learn about the work of W/NP.
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Lynda Pracht probably had no idea her decision to get involved with W/NP would lay the foundation for the Therapy Dressing Project. Lynda's dedication and compassion for helping women in Nicaragua improve their lives is why W/NP has a burn project today. She was instrumental and relentless about developing a sewing machine repair component that would align with the Learning Center Program.
Lynda showed us the value of sharing time, resources, skills, and to not let obstacles stand in your way. When she set her mind to do something, she did it, somehow/someway! Her example will live on and help us to not underestimate the importance of reaching out to those around us in ways that we are able to.
show in Wisconsin and one of the largest in the nation. The three-day outdoor event will be in 
