I recently came across an article on the National Geographic website about a carpenter with disabilities who discovered a new purpose in life. Not only was it touching, but I also could not resist sharing it.
National Geographic’s Short Film Showcase
According to the website, National Geographic’s Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos, creations of filmmakers from around the world. National Geographic editors select the showcase films. They look for work that affirms National Geographic’s belief in the world-changing power of science, exploration, and storytelling. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of National Geographic Partners.
Image Credit: National Geographic
Meet the carpenter whose disabilities became his driving force
The short film that touched me is about a man in Zambia whose own disabilities encouraged him to ease the difficulties of others.
Austin Meyer, the documentary filmmaker, tells the story of David Miti, who was born in the Eastern province of Zambia way back in 1966. He became a truck driver but also learned the necessary skills to become a carpenter. Unexpectedly, at age 34, Miti woke up feverish one morning. As a matter of fact, it was severe enough to let him visit the hospital. There he got medicine and headed home.
The diagnosis that left him with disabilities
Upon arriving home he noticed a blister on his left leg. Alarmingly, over the following several hours, Miti discovered another blister, this one on his right leg. Not only were there blisters, but very soon, he noticed his legs turning black. He sought further medical care, but sadly, there was no good news. The diagnosis was gangrene, which is the consequence of compromised blood supply. Essentially, the lack of blood caused the tissues in his legs to die. After that, he learned that the only way the doctors could save his life was by amputating both legs.
Miti saw no reason to go on
David Miti says he was devastated; subsequently, he felt his life was over, and he contemplated suicide. Fortunately, he found something to live for. He joined the Zambian Association for Children with Disabilities. Most importantly, his carpentry skills allowed him to begin building devices to help children with disabilities.
His time to become mobile arrived
Essentially, the children’s needs saved his life. In the meantime, the wheels of fortune turned slowly. He took care of the children’s needs, unknowingly creating his own fortune. Ultimately, his turn on the receiving end arrived. He now had the opportunity to relearn walking skills. Yes, you’re right! Miti now has his own pair of prosthetic legs. You can watch David Miti taking his first steps. If you click HERE, I will take you to National Geographic’s Short Film Showcase, where you can watch Austin Meyer’s short film.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, prosthetic legs are the perfect devices for helping people with amputated legs become mobile again. Interestingly, prosthetic legs mimic the functions of normal legs, and some even look like normal legs. However, they do not come cheaply, and they also don’t last a lifetime. Thus, prosthetics are not one-time costs. The story of David Miti did not mention how he became the proud recipient of a brand new set of prosthetic legs. Regardless, he thoroughly deserved it!
