QLD: Crippled Russian boy now abseiling thanks to surgeons

AAP General News (Australia)
04-21-1999
QLD: Crippled Russian boy now abseiling thanks to surgeons

BRISBANE, April 21 AAP - A 14-year-old Russian boy so crippled by cerebral palsy he could
not stand or walk has been abseiling down Brisbane cliffs thanks to cooperation between a
local hospital and the Russian government.

The Mater Children's Hospital in Brisbane today signed a three-year agreement with the
Russian Health Ministry, formalising a cooperative project which has so far brought four
Russian children with neurological disorders to Australia for treatment, a spokeswoman said.

Also during the past three years, Australian physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons have
travelled to Russia to treat hundreds of patients.

Fourteen-year-old Andre Tchougaev (Andre Tchougaev) arrived in Brisbane last year
debilitated by cerebral palsy, the Mater spokeswoman said.

"After surgery and intensive therapy he walks independently with a walking aid and has been
experiencing Australia's outdoor lifestyle by abseiling, boating and much more," she said.

The Russian health ministry is seeking support around the world for disabled children.

AAP rr/maur

KEYWORD: DISORDERS (HOLD)

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