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November 26, 2014 - 2:31 PM
KELOWNA - One might not expect chiropractic services to be offered at the Kelowna Gospel Mission — an organization dedicated to feeding and sheltering the homeless — but the service has been in place for more than a year to care for those in the long line that forms once a week.
Chiropractic services at the mission are free of charge and performed by four qualified volunteers willing to adjust anyone in need. Dr. James Willans, Dr. Kevin Holroyd, Dr. Travis Pillipow and Dr. Vince De Jong show up every Wednesday evening, at 7 p.m. to set up a table in a tiny staff room to conduct adjustments on the homeless.
The Kelowna Gospel Mission says one of those receiving the service is 'Brian G', a furniture restorer who spends each day on his feet. The work causes strain on his back, which has seen better, stronger days. He can't afford to see a chiropractor at a regular clinic and uses the service at the mission. He stands in line with others on Wednesdays for an adjustment.
"It keeps me going," Brian G says. "They (adjustments) are like the oil in my car. Without them I would seize up."
Dr. De Jong is happy to help and describes the work as rewarding.
"There are so many people living in pain and discomfort," he says. "If I can help them so they can get through their day in less pain or get a better night's sleep that's very rewarding to see. Helping people get their health back on track can play a huge role in helping them start working again and regain their independence."
To contact the reporter for this story, email Adam Proskiw at aproskiw@infonews.ca or call 250-718-0428. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.
News from © iNFOnews, 2014