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ICRC Physio Rieke Hayes' Journey: From Outpatient Care to Gaza's Unique Challenges

From treating back pain to spinal injuries in Gaza, Rieke Hayes' career took an unexpected turn. Listen to her story on the Inside Geneva podcast.

This is a collage image of a bicycles and helmets.
This is a collage image of a bicycles and helmets.

ICRC Physio Rieke Hayes' Journey: From Outpatient Care to Gaza's Unique Challenges

Listen to the latest episode of Inside Geneva, featuring an interview with Irish physiotherapist Rieke Hayes. She shares her journey from envisioning a career in outpatient physiotherapy to working for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Gaza.

Rieke Hayes initially planned to focus on treating back and neck pain in outpatient settings. However, she found this path unfulfilling. Now, she treats patients with spinal injuries in Gaza, facing unique challenges like the lack of walking frames, wheelchairs, and raised beds.

Hayes' first posting was unexpectedly in North Korea (DPRK). She now works for the ICRC, having been in Gaza at least during postings in June and early September of the same year. Her patients often live in tents with many relatives, making family support crucial for their recovery.

The Inside Geneva podcast, available on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, offers insights into Hayes' work. Subscribe to the Inside Geneva newsletter to stay updated. The website is certified by the Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI), ensuring high standards. Readers can engage in debates or report factual errors by emailing english@ourwebsite.

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