MITHRA REHABILITATION CENTRE

Madras Institute To Habilitate Retarded Afficted,MITHRA-as it is popularly know as ans referred to ,is celebrating its 25^th year in the service to young and old citizens of Madras. MITHRA in ancient Sanskrit means friendship. MITHRA in chennai is a place of laughter and friendship-a place of devoted workers and happy children.

Founded by Sr.Mary Theodore,OAM ,an Australian missionary in 1977,MITHRA has matured from humble beginnings, through the sheer determination,compassion for the unfortunate ,and able assistance of dedicated band of service -minded persons,into an institution that today has the ability to leave an indelible impression about devotion to the cause of nurturing the basic abilities of children and young peoples who are afflicted by disabilities that are not of their own making,and yet relegate them to a position in their effort to be normal.

The out-patient department equipped with a lab,ECG and X-ray is open to external patients who can avail of all test and treatment facilities that are available. The team of consultant doctors that offers, to both inmates as well as external patients include specialists in psychiatry,child diseases, orthopedics, paediatrics, dentistry besides general practitioners. Simulated exercises through play methods,and various other training systems for eye-hand coordination,gait training,balance,development of delayed milestones.

The physiotherapy department includes facilities fro Hydrotherapy, Short ware diathermy-heat therapy,traction, interference therapy,ultrasound,and wax bath. The school offers facilities for varied types of institution depending upon the ability of the child and absorption levels. Each child is personally attended to by a teacher and groups are kept small so that singular attention can be afforded to each child. MITHRA play library has been in operation to provide the children of MITHRA with the opportunity to play within a least restrictive environment.

Mithra conducts an eighteen month multipurpose Rehabilitation Workers diploma course (MRW) in recognition with RCI Delhi. Vocational training is given to older children in the areas of carpentry,needle work,block printing, greeting card making, candle making ans envelope making. Encouragement is always at hand, each child is examined for suitability to a craft and also potential of the field to provide some income sustenance when the child moves into the outside work ambiance.

The institute has an in- house manufacturing facility fro production of calipers /crutches and other aids and appliances like standing frames,walkers, wheelchairs, corner seats, tailored to suit each and every child. Inmates are provided all meals on campus. Diets are carefully worked out to ensure that balance foods aid the child both physically and mentally. All medical administration required by the children are administered by trained nurses at the prescribed times. The dormitory facilities for resident children are well-aired , maintained clean and always attended to by watchful helpers who assist the children in many ways, from daily routines to conversation and entertainment.

Sister Mary Theodore’s “dream” started 28 years ago and much has been achieved by her since. Amongst other recognitions, she was awarded, in October 1991, the Medal of the Order of Australia for the service to international relations, particularity to children with disabilities in chennai. Sister Mary Theodore is ever looking for financial assistance form every quarter that is willing to contribute its might to the cause of the needy. Today ,MITHRA can offer medical assistance and counsel of an advanced level,be it fundamental orthodontic services,or treatment of minor ailments, or other more serious afflictions like Polio,Cerebral Palsy,Speech Deficiency,and Spastic treatment.

MITHRA, is an NGO in Anna Nagar working towards the total rehabilitation of mentally and physically challenged children for 32 years.It has recently expanded its services by providing “Remedial Education” to children with learning disabilities ,Autism,ADHD,mental retardation in our campus from 8.00 a.m to 8.00 p.m. This program is an extension of the OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Unit at MITHRA.The therapist use various advanced technique like cognitive therapy, behaviour, modification,sensory integration approach etc.

The AIM is to maximize the abilities of these children and minimize their disability and also depending on the individual to make them as independent as possible.

I asked God for Strength, that I might achieve

I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey.

I asked for health, that I might do greater things

I was given infirmity, that 1 might do better things.

1 asked for riches, that I might be happy

I was given poverty, that I might be wise.

I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men

I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God.

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life

I was given life, that I might enjoy all things,

I got nothing that I asked for-but everything I had hoped for

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.

I am among all people,

most richly blessed.

For futher details Contact:

MITHRA CHALLENGE TO CONQUER

(Madras Institute to Habilitate Retarded Afflicted)

D 171, R.V Nagar, Anna Nagar, Chennai – 600 102.

Phone : 2663 3967 / 2663 3708

Fax : 2663 2368

e-mail : mithra@vsnl.com

(Donations are eligible for tax exemption under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act 1961 )

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