He collects second-hand braces to assist those who may face financial constraints in acquiring new ones.
Read the interview to discover his inspiring story.
Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Gabriel Dobrescu, and I am the President of the Varus Equin Association in Romania. I founded this organization in 2021 to help children born with Varus Equin and their families in our country. You can find many more things related to my activity within the association on the association’s Facebook page.
What are your biggest motivations?
My biggest motivations stem from the profound impact we can have on the lives of children and families affected by Varus Equin. Witnessing their struggles and the positive changes we bring keeps me dedicated and inspired.
What personal achievement are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the establishment of the Varus Equin Association in 2021 and the tireless work we’ve undertaken since then. Bringing approximately 6,000 pairs of orthoses to Romania, of which 95% have been distributed to families. Approximately 2000 pairs have already been removed from the circuit because they have degraded a lot and can no longer be used. Assisting approximately 2,700 families affected by Varus Equin is a significant accomplishment that fills me with pride.
What is your tip to others?
My advice to others would be to never underestimate the potential of grassroots initiatives and the power of community support. Even small, individual actions can lead to substantial change and have a lasting impact on those in need.
Try to help and you will see how satisfying it is. It doesn’t matter how small the gesture is. And if you don’t know where and how, I invite you to contact me and together we will find help through the association I lead.
Can you share a learning experience or mistake you’ve encountered?
While our journey has encountered various challenges, I prefer to view them as learning opportunities rather than blunders. These experiences have allowed us to refine our approach, adapt to new circumstances, and continually improve our mission to assist children with Varus Equin. I can say that sometimes I had too much trust in people.
What is the most beautiful moment you have experienced?
The most beautiful moments in my work are when I see a child’s life improving because of the orthoses we provide. Witnessing their joy, relief, and the smiles on their faces is incredibly moving and heartwarming. These moments reaffirm the importance of our mission and the positive impact we bring to the lives of these children and their families.
How did you manage to bring approximately 6,000 pairs of orthoses to Romania?
We successfully brought approximately 6,000 pairs of orthoses to Romania through a combination of international collaboration and support. We established connections with various European organizations and companies, including C- pro direct and Stepsworldwide UK, who generously donated orthoses that were previously used by children in their respective regions. Additionally, we received invaluable assistance from Romanian expatriates residing in the United Kingdom, Norway, Spain, Germany, and other countries. These dedicated individuals collected orthoses from local clinics and sent them to us in Romania. This collective effort has allowed us to acquire a substantial number of orthoses that have been distributed to children in need, making a significant impact in our country.
In these challenging times, as we face difficulties in sourcing more orthoses, we urge you to join us in our mission to support children with Varus Equin in Romania. Your assistance, whether through donations, fundraising, or spreading the word about our cause, can make a real difference in the lives of these children and their families. Together, we can continue providing the necessary orthotic support and hope for a better future. Every contribution, no matter how small, is a step towards improving the quality of life for these young ones. We appreciate your help and solidarity in this important journey.
How did you manage to bring approximately 6,000 pairs of orthoses to Romania?
We successfully brought approximately 6,000 pairs of orthoses to Romania through a combination of international collaboration and support. We established connections with various European organizations and companies, including C- pro direct and Stepsworldwide UK, who generously donated orthoses that were previously used by children in their respective regions. Additionally, we received invaluable assistance from Romanian expatriates residing in the United Kingdom, Norway, Spain, Germany, and other countries. These dedicated individuals collected orthoses from local clinics and sent them to us in Romania. This collective effort has allowed us to acquire a substantial number of orthoses that have been distributed to children in need, making a significant impact in our country.
