Sensation

The great art of life is sensation - to feel that we exist, even in pain.
Lord Byron

This past February while I was in Ukraine, I was told that one of Mission to Ukraine's US supporters, Helmer, Inc., wanted to organize a fundraising project for Romaniv Orphanage.  Knowing that many of the older boys at Romaniv receive greater amounts of attention from MTU and other volunteers, I suggested targeting the project towards something that could be beneficial for some of the more profoundly disabled boys who are often unable to attend group sessions.  What was concluded: To build a Sensory Room.

Finally, after nearly 7 months of planning, Romaniv's new Sensory Room is starting to take shape.  Last week my physical therapist colleague, Maxim, and I went to Romaniv to start the process.  We had mirrors to hang, floors to sweep, and soft mats to assemble.  There was a lot of work to be done.  

The Before Picture:  

While we were working, the boys began to grow curious about what was going on in the room.  They pointed and shouted from across the way, knowing that something new and exciting was being built just for them.  

In addition to the soft mats and ball pit - specialized lighting, soft music, and aromatherapy were added to the new Sensory Room in the hopes of creating a soothing and captivating sensory experience for the profoundly disabled boys.    

The After Picture:  

Used as a therapeutic approach by providing a multi-sensory experience, the focus of the room is to help Romaniv's profoundly disabled boys purposefully interact with their surroundings.  Although a few finishing touches have yet to be added, a new and innovative sensory experience eagerly awaits the boys of Romaniv.   

Thanks Helmer, Inc.!