This article in our local paper Moreland Leader (issue from Monday, December 4, 2017) is about a fulfilling volunteering experience I’ve had providing paediatric massage to children with disabilities in Vietnam.

Masseuse encourages others to help.

Emma-Jayne Schenk

A Brunswick West woman is encouraging massage therapists to use their skills to help others, after witnessing first-hand what gentle touch can bring to someone’s life.

Sia Allimonos volunteered with charity Buds to Blossoms earlier this year and travelled to orphanage in Ho Chi Minh city and provided paediatric massage to children living with HIV and AIDS.

She met people with mental and physical disabilities and helped them with things such a challenging position or hug.

“Being there with these children changed everything,” Ms Allimonos said.

“It was priceless to see their smiles and hear their laughter, feeling how relaxed they are and how they fall asleep during the massage.”

“I witnessed how important gentle massage touch is and how good it is for these orphans.”

Ms Allimonos said the experience was something others should consider taking part in.”

“I saw how children were happy to see us back in our following visits so I feel a commitment to encourage others to volunteer with us or to donate to make it keep happening,” she said.

To donate and help me to be of service to these children, please visit https://www.gofundme.com/together-care-for-disabled-orphans