We are the first and only organization that provides artificial limbs free of charge to the needy. While we normally provide the Jaipur type casual limbs, we also provide the modular limbs which are better aligned and provided to children and young adults. Since a child has to obtain a new limb every six months as they grow, a properly aligned limb is critical to avoid posture and gait deviations.
We provide the following types of prosthesis to primary (1st time after an amputation) and secondary (replacement of a prosthesis due to wear and tear or damage) amputees.
- Trans-tibial (Below Knee)
- Trans-femoral (Above Knee)
- Knee disarticulation.
- Hip disarticulation.
- Trans-radial (Below Elbow).
- Trans- humeral (Above Elbow)
- Mechanical and cosmetic hands
- Myoelectric hands
- Upper limb and lower limb braces
When we started manufacturing limbs, the main cause of amputation were injuries sustained in the war. However, now we find more people with diabetes, in addition to road / train accidents, congenital disorders, trap gun injuries and cancer.
The Colombo Friend in Need Society celebrated 190 years in 2021, being the oldest charity in Sri Lanka which has provided yeoman service to the society over the years. Starting from the set-up of the 1st medical facility in 1840 in Jaffna, to starting medical facilities around the country in the mid 1850 period to being a transit hostel for allied forces during the world war period and starting the 1st limb manufacturing facility are just a handful of projects to mention. Over the years we have provided over 30,000 limbs free of charge to the needy. This is done with the generosity of donors who provide the funds required to enable us to continue our free service.
Future Developments
Along with the modular limbs that has been started at CFINS, a Rotary Global Grant is approved to provide 3D printed sockets for prosthetic limbs which will be started by early 2023. The latest Canadian Technology will be available with the equipment and training provided by the Canadian specialists.
Establish a TVEC/NAITA technician training centre to train, upgrade and certify Level 4 technicians, for which all approvals have been obtained. An MOU and partnership with the Kotalawala Défense University and CFINS is being finalised to have an arrangement for their interns to work in the new workshop, physiotherapy section and 3D printing section.
We hope to be a beta test centre for Nia and provide test and clinical trail facilities to Nia and University of Toronto in this field eventually. Our partnership with KDU university along with the University of Colombo, Medical Faculty will give us the resources required to achieve our goals.
With the implementation of the above, our vision is to make CFINS a centre of excellence for 3D printing in South Asia and a training facility which can attract local and foreign students under the affiliated universities, and to also train local youth for gainful employment overseas.
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