Dr Haleluya Moshi
Dr Haleluya Moshi is a senior physiotherapist and lecturer at the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College in the faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. He has more than 17 years experience offering rehabilitation services to persons with traumatic spinal cord injury. Dr Haleluya is interested in disability prevention and rehabilitation in resource-constrained areas. He is currently developing a database for traumatic spine and spinal cord injury at the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), the only hospital in Tanzania with a spinal cord injury unit. He has also written about evacuation and transportation of persons with spinal injuries from the accident scene to the health facility in the Kilimanjaro region which includes both rural and urban areas.
Haleluya shares his experiences from the conference.
Participating in ISCoS 2023 introduced me to a more extensive network of potential collaborators, more than initially anticipated. I had the opportunity to meet and connect with several scientists specializing in spinal cord injuries (SCI), each with diverse interests. Engaging with the psychosocial special interest group expanded my perspective on the needs of individuals with SCI, prompting me to consider a broader range of factors. I established contacts with individuals interested in collaborating on addressing psychosocial needs, an area that has received limited attention in my home country. Moreover, I gained insights into the possibilities of applying for both small and large grants dedicated to SCI treatment and rehabilitation.
In addition to attending various sessions, where I discovered different approaches employed in various settings, I learned about the latest advancements and technologies in addressing the rehabilitation needs of those with SCI. Exhibitors highlighted evidence-based technologies that are making a significant impact. The unexpected ceremonies and dinners proved to be invaluable opportunities for building connections and friendships. I formed new friendships during these gatherings, not solely for professional collaboration but also for personal connections.
The knowledge acquired at ISCoS 2023 is poised to significantly contribute to a broader understanding and informed practice in my current work. Conversations with senior researchers provided crucial advice that positively influenced my ongoing work on database development. I have started sharing some of the evidence-based approaches in SCI rehabilitation with my interdisciplinary team and students during clinical placements.
Overall, despite the challenges in obtaining a visa to the UK, the experience of attending ISCoS 2023 was highly rewarding. The conference stimulated a revaluation of my approach to the rehabilitation needs of individuals with SCI, challenging me to consider the latest scientific and technological advancements in the field. It served as a prime opportunity to connect with potential collaborators for future projects. I am grateful for the support from SRI, including the grant, which played a pivotal role in making this experience possible.