Walk with Me

June 2, 2023

    Our final medical visit. It made me realize how quickly this trip has gone by. I have gained so much knowledge that I am able to use in my future. Our last visit was at a facility known as “Anda Conmigo” which means “walk with me” in English. Their goal is to help children with intellectual disabilities improve their function in school and society. They take many cerebral palsy and autism patients, but they can also take individuals with less severe diagnosis. In the facility, there is occupational, speech, physical, and psychotherapy. The founder had a child with cerebral palsy, and spent most of his time taking his son to specialist appointments. He realized that having a localized place for all of his needs would be less time consuming and more effective. This led to the founding of Anda Conmigo. Walking in, the first thing I realized was the lack of space. Because the center is in the heart of Madrid, everything is more expensive. The owner explained to us his goal of this facility he opened up during the pandemic, and I could see the passion and emotion behind his eyes. He really loved what he did. This was admirable because I hope to be the kind of physician where patients can see the passion in my eyes. One thing I learned is that they currently have 62 children that they work with, but the demand is so high there is a waiting list. I cannot imagine how frustrating it would be to just wait for help while your child struggles. The work that Anda Conmigo does is life changing for individuals. They are enabling children to have a more prosperous future, and providing them confidence through their disabilities. I really loved the mission behind this foundation! We did not get any pictures inside of Anda Conmigo because it was such a small place, but I provided a picture from our palace tour that we did later in the day!

I did not realize that no pictures were allowed. I almost got 
kicked out of the palace for taking this picture. I think it was worth it though!